"A little nonsense now and then is cherished by the wisest men." (Hilary)

The Candyman and philosopher Willie Wonka

Hey everyone! Hope you're all doing so well! I miss you all very much, but will be seeing you very soon, and don't want to miss a minute of what I am doing right now. Yesterday we went to Miguel and Evelyn's and her brother opened his mission call. He is going to IDAHO. Ha! How cool!!! Anyway, we did a little family home evening and it was so special and helped me to remember that what I am doing is so special and that I have to enjoy every second because it is what I have been waiting for all my life (and what I will reflect on in the future).

Okay, so the bad news is... I TOTALLY forgot about wishing Dad a happy father's day and Mitch a happy birthday (and McKenzie a happy birthday). I am the worst. I feel so awful and I owe you all apologies (sp?).

The good news is... yesterday were transfers and although I didn't want to leave Calderon because I love it so much and have had the most amazing time in this sector, I have a new calling! A few months ago President assigned a couple sisters to be "leader hermanas" here and one is going home in two weeks and I am taking her place! WHAT? I know, right? So I will be in a trio for the next couple weeks with Hermana Cooper and Hermana Cantos. I am still with Hermana Valera (and we just picked up her new companion, Hermana Quizhpe) right now but in like thirty minutes I will head to my new sector, o sea, Ofelia. It is actually really close, just one zone away. I am bummed to leave Calderon and nervous about my new assignment, but overall, super excited to have new responsibilities and super humbled to be trusted in this calling.

We have had a crazy week. Wednesday we had a conference and it went really well. It was cool and they asked us to participate a bit and I felt like it turned out okay and I really learned a lot. Thursday we had to be in the offices at 6 am to renew my visa. I was there with Hermana Giles and Elder Clinger though, which was way fun to catch up with those two! They're so great. It was a long day. Throughout the week my companion had been dealing with a stomach sickness (it happens to all of us here in Calderon and this is a nicer sector! I am not sure what the deal is.) and Saturday she just couldn't work at all. Luckily she is getting much better now. But the rest of the week was normal and great.
Found a couple new investigators and families and things are going okay in the obra.

Things were good with the Hermana Valera. We only had less than three weeks together, but it was fun. I think we both learned quite a bit and now President is trusting her to train! I hope things turn out for her. We spent a lot of time laughing together; I want to marry someone that likes to laugh. Sometimes when we're walking together we sing and rap. "A little nonsense now and then is cherished by the wisest men." (Name that movie.)

Okay, Dad, know that I love you with all my heart! I am sending letters soon, I hope! Thanks for everything!

Hermana Norton

There are some really great lines in the book "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" by Roald Dahl 

and naturally Hilary would remember one that is very thought provoking. 

I, on the other hand, can only recall the really weird lines ... for example:

Veruca Salt: 

Snozzberries? Who ever heard of a snozzberry?

Sam Beauregarde: 

I've got a blueberry for a daughter...

"Oh, What a Beautiful Morning!" (Hilary)

 

"Oh, What a Beautiful Morning!" 

 

  Happy Monday everyone! We have another week ahead of us. How cool. Time is flying by.

All is going well here in Calderon.  

I think I say this every week, but

 I love this sector and I love my companion and I love this work. 

I found a good quote 

the other day. 

 

"Success is not the key to happiness. 

 Happiness is the key to success. 

If you love what you're doing, you will be successful." 

I can't necessarily say that we are having a hundred baptisms every Saturday, but I can say that I have seen a difference in the results we have had lately and I am recognizing the causes... 

obedience, diligence, a personal conversion, 

and really loving what we're doing.

Okay the phone call. Is it okay if we call 3:30? There aren't any members that have offered to help, so I think we'll just end up calling from an Internet place nearby. It will be by Skype, because I have not seen an Apple in Ecuador. I'll call from the "Hermana Norton" account.

Thursday and Friday we had training and conference and interviews with President and the assistants. They're great. I really look forward to those times because I feel like they are a really great help, knowing the challenges of our mission and really what we need to know and do here at this time. Plus, Hermana Ghent always reviews the area books and she was so amazed at our book. Ha, she was pulling out all the progress reports and showing people and telling all the elders what they need to improve on and showing them ours as an example. It was cute. She is really sweet. Haha it made us feel good. She said the Lord would be pleased if he were looking at our area book. Hahaha. Anyway, since the trainings, Hermana Rodriguez and I have been teaching Lesson 1 a lot more often and finding a lot of success in that. It helps the people to recognize what are the differences in our church and others, and to understand our objective as missionaries. We have been teaching a few people recently who are really catching on. I hope to be able to see their future progress. Transfers are in two weeks and I really really hope that I get more time here!

Saturday/Sunday we had another really great fasting experience. We had a lot of investigators attend church Sunday and they all had positive experiences! This Saturday, A will be baptized and the following, Y. They're both doing really well.

Something I have seen a bit recently is the blessings of the guidance of the Spirit during the lessons. My companion and I have really tried to obtain his companionship, and during the lessons we are always able to see his guidance. He has helped us to know how to answer questions and what to teach in certain lessons. I am grateful and humbled. We have had a few lessons recently with Jehovah's Witnesses or Christians or Catholics that have really strong beliefs and we have been able to teach the doctrine and respond to their questions without things turning into a debate and without losing the Spirit of the lesson. I am really grateful, because I know there is no way we could do any of this without Heavenly Father's help.

A couple weeks ago I wrote about E. She won't read/listen to/look at the Book of Mormon and it is so painful. My poor companion wants to keep trying because apparently her ex-boyfriend had the same problem and she says to me, "I am going to write a chapter in a letter and give it to her." and things like that. As much as I want to keep trying, she won't accept it and she can't progress without it! It's tough.

Today we crossed paths with C (the woman we helped when her husband was beating her). She looked so different and happy. I don't know if I mentioned it, but when we arrived that day her head/face had a couple big goose eggs and was all blue and bruised. She was so excited to see us. It was cool. (for the backstory, see post "It felt like an 'Ammon moment" from April 16, 2013)
Okay, this is a really long email, I apologize! I love the photos you all send! Thanks for keeping me updated.

Tell the elders I say congrats on the baptisms!! How exciting! We also do what that Elder was saying. It's called the "Charla de Oposicion." It is the smartest way because then they know what to expect and they this is what happens when we are trying to do what is right.

Thanks for helping Hermana Masquez.

Tell Adam I love him!

Mitch, I love you!

Until Sunday!

Hermana Norton

Christ says, 'If you let me, I will make you perfect.... understand I am going to see this job through" (Hilary)

Hermana Marca, M, Hermana Norton

Okay, hi a todos. I hope you are doing so well! Please tell me how you are doing. I want to be aware of when I need to send extra prayers in the direction of one person or another. Thanks for all the emails! I love my family so much. I can say it a million times, but I don't think that statement will ever come out with the impact I would like it to. I can't explain how important you all are to me.

Adam. I love hearing from you. Lame that you can't play frisbee anymore, (because of the snow) but I love that you have a new hobbie. You're so cool Adam. Tell Brother Taim I say "hi and thanks". And I loved your letter I got in the package. I know I can just write on another piece of paper, but I like the idea of sending this one back. I already wrote my testimony on it (it was good that the square was small or else my testimony would have gone on and on and on) and I am working on drawing a picture of me. I am just taking my sweet time because it is going to be sent back to the master cartoonist and I want it to be perfect. I want to see some of the stuff you have done for your art class. Can you scan it and send it to me or something?

Mitch, thank you so much for your email. It felt like a real conversation. It was just the support I needed. Thanks for being in-tune and knowing how to help your younger sister. YOU are one of MY all time best friends and biggest heroes (aunque no me creas). I am so glad you are my brother. Seriously. I have learned so much from you and your friendship means a lot to me. I need some more pictures of your kids.

Okay, this week I have been keeping track of what I wanted to write so the email would be a little more interesting. Here come the transfers and zero percent of me wants to leave. We are working really hard with a few people that I want to be able to see baptized. Below in green is part of my letter  to Pres.

I have been working on strengthening my faith this week like we talked about in the interview Wednesday (Wednesday were the interviews with President and he asked me what I wanted to work on. I chose faith. I was explaining to him how tough it is to understand the balance between the faith and prayers of me, my companions, and all the thousands of members praying + God's will + the agency of these people. Does that make sense? Anyway, it is tripping me up sometimes because I wonder if even if I pray and pray and pray my heart out, they still have their agency and maybe it's not "their time".). Hermana Marca is super in-tune with the spirit and aware of people's needs; it is one thing I really admire about her. She does a great job of adapting teachings to the needs of the investigators and members, and keeping everyone in mind as she studies so she can find nuggets of information to share with them. The other day I found myself at a low point and she shared with me part of Ether 12. I then continued to study the chapter and found some verses that although I had already read many times, were an important reminder for me (verses 6, 14, 17, 29). This week I really worked on exercising more faith and Saturday we were blessed with many miracles that helped me recognize that God is always doing His part.

Saturday was the baptism of M. Like I said, there were so many amazing things that happened that day. The elders in our zone were of a huge help (I am very grateful for our district leader and zone leaders). The day was super hectic, but many prayers were answered and all turned out really well. Before her baptism, M was super discouraged and everything seemed to be a mess. But afterward she recognized that the discouragement was the enemy trying to keep her from moving forward. She felt much better and it was so refreshing to see her confirmed yesterday.

We are working with another investigator right now named L. He is trying really hard to 1. change, and 2. find his answer. He is a young adult that used to get caught up in a lot of things he knew he shouldn't take part in. Since Tuesday, when we taught him the Word of Wisdom, he has not drank (?) or smoked. Saturday was a wedding of a good friend, but he chose not to attend because he knew all his friends would be drinking. He instead stayed home and read three pages of the Book of Mormon and prayed. He is attending church and is really recognizing the importance of baptism.

Our investigator with a baptismal date is named F. She has attended church many times and really wants to do her part. The challenge is that she and her brother (who also accepted a baptismal date, but hasn't attended church) study Saturdays and Sundays from 7:30 until 2. There are three reunions in our chapel and they can't attend one. Their high school does not offer classes later in the day, nor during the week. We are searching for a solution. Our zone leaders have a recent convert who was able to talk to her high school director about the importance of the Sabbath day observance and receive permission to attend church and miss classes Sundays. She is going to accompany us this week with an appointment with F and J to share her experience.

These people are super important to me and I want to be able to be here with them for their baptisms! I hope I don't get transferred. But we will see. God knows best.

A group of members from the stake went to the temple. The families we have been working with went to do baptisms. I haven't seen them yet since, but I hope it went well! I love them so much and love to see how much the gospel is helping them, giving them hope and so much more happiness as a family.

Does Adele have new music out? I think I keep hearing stuff of hers. Were you able to get the things to Caitlin? I miss her so much! and Abby and Veronica. I love those girls.

F gave a talk in church yesterday. It was so great. He is still learning the boundaries and the do's and dont's , (what is appropriate over the pulpit) Anyway. He is so great!

Okay, so signs that I am an awkward missionary: Yesterday we were watching the Joseph Smith movie (the long 62 minute one) with F and his family during lunch. 1. I had never realized how violent it is! 2. I got so uncomfortable watching Joseph and Emma begin courting (sp?).

Okay, what a mess! I am so sorry this email is so random! I love you all. I am going to include a quote that Jesslyn sent me and then finish up.

"'Make no mistake,' Christ says, 'If you let me, I will make you perfect. The moment you put yourself in my hands, that is what you are in for. Nothing less, or other, than that. You have free will and if you choose, you can push Me away. But if you do not push Me away, understand that I am going to see this job through. Whatever suffering it may cost you in your earthly life, whatever it costs Me, I will never rest nor let you rest, until you are literally perfect - until My Father can say without reservation that He is well pleased with you... This I can do and will do. But I will not do anything less.'" 
C. S. Lewis.

BYE! H. Norton

"I cannot say the smallest part which I feel." (Hilary) and photos

Dear everyone,

Hope all is well! Hope you are loving this October. What is it like in Utah right now? Otavalo is super... well a lot like Utah. The afternoons are hot and sunny, and the nights and mornings are suuuper chilly and rainy. I love it here. An average day in the zone Imbabura would be... Get out of bed at 6:30 and "exercise" (which may include running, yoga, conditioning, or, if we are feeling particularly tired, sitting on the floor and stretching for thirty minutes). By about 7 am we are actually awake, showering, making breakfast, all that. From 8-10 we have our personal and companionship studies and if we don't have to leave, we study the language. Lunch is with a member and generally consists of rice, chicken, vegetables, rice, maybe beans, always soup, rice, juice... and rice. And aside from all that, we are walking around (or riding a bus) to each and every corner and pueblo here in Imbabura, Ecuador, sharing, serving, teaching, contacting, and bringing sheep back to the fold. Like I mentioned, our area is very large and we are currently visiting a lot of people that live far, far from the city. I have never had a strong stomach, so the bus rides can get a little unpleasant. I remember the other day feeling like I was on a 25 minute long Indiana Jones ride after eating chicken feet (you hold it like a popsicle and chew off the ... whatever you would call the stuff that is on the bone/tendon) for lunch. It was super lovely. Good thing I am doing the greatest thing ever or else this might get hard.

Okay, to answer some questions/respond to some statements. Mitch, don't feel bad. Just write. You may not think that what happens is super interesting, but I promise it is. I love reading about your baby girl's grain-of-rice-sized toenails. Promise. (It sounds like sarcasm, but it isn't.) Dad, how was Germany? I hope you are still traveling when I get back so I can join you... :) I look forward to daddy-daughter time when I get back. And thanks for always writing. I know your schedule is super exhausting, but I don't think you know how much it means to me to hear from you. Mom, I got the package from LaVella (tell her thank you so much) and I love it all. I love the clothes and although before I said I don't need more clothes, I had been wanting a sweater and skirt just like the ones you sent. And I have been reading the pumpkin books nightly (homesick?! Of course not...). I love you so much and I am so blessed to have you as my mom. THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart.

J P is not the other little boy named J that had a baptismal date. J P's mother is a member and his father is not. J and C (that nicknamed me Princess) are children of F. She has five children and is a single mom. F's children are amazing and really, really want to do what is right. F is great, but is holding her children back because she won't change. It is so sad to see. We had to stop visiting them because we were spending a lot of time with them and not getting anywhere. Her kids love her so much and want to be baptized as a family, and won't be baptized without her. We have had a few talks with her where we've said (CASUALLY PARAPHRASING) "Listen, you need to do your part... You realize all your children need you to make this decision. etc etc"  Nothing is working. She has been working with missionaries since October of 2010. She has had previous baptisms that she did not show up to. It is super super sad to talk about or think about or see. Like I said a while ago, I have really been able to get a glimpse of what our Heavenly Father might be feeling. I want so badly for them to accept this and move forward I often find myself crying over them. We have seen F and her kids a few times since we stopped visiting them and it is the hardest thing for me. The other day we found J and his twin sister walking home from school and talked to them for a few minutes. He told me his family is now receiving visits from members of the Catholic church and they're attending there. That was a really tough day. 
It is a good thing we do this work in pairs because I know I wouldn't be able to do this alone - see Ecclesiastes 4

9  ^aTwo are better than one; because they have a good ^breward for their labour.

 10 For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.

Hermana Marca does a great job of lifting me up when I am falling and I try to do that for her in return. I found a quote that I like that explains what has helped when I am really down.

"The Holy Ghost satisfies and fills up every longing of the human heart, and fills up every vacuum. When I am filled with that spirit, my soul is satisfied." Eliza R. Snow

Hermanas Marca and Norton and 4 elders attending an Otavalo Festival

I really love the Book of Mormon more than I can explain and my gratitude for it and the prophets who wrote it grows every day. The Book of Mormon and the teachings of modern-day prophets bring me the comfort I desperately need when things get tough in the mission. The other day I found a scripture that I love that helped me put into perspective my trials. 1 Nephi 20: 10 For, behold, I have refined thee, I have chosen thee in the furnace of ^aaffliction.
Heavenly Father is perfecting me bit by bit. It is sometimes painful (I mean, that's why they call it a refiner's fire, right?) but I just have to keep remembering that He knows me and He has a purpose in all this and if I am going to be His representative, I need to be better. He is bettering me in these trials.

Okay, today Hermana Marca and I were studying patience and reading in Mosiah and Alma. We stopped as we read Alma 26:1 and 2 

... behold I say unto you, how great reason have we to rejoice; for could we have supposed ... that God would have granted unto us such great blessings?

 2 And now, I ask, what great blessings has he bestowed upon us? Can ye tell?

and listed all the blessings that we have seen and felt and received (rather than focusing on what hasn't been working out). It was really a great exercise to focus on all that we have been given here in the mission. I am so eternally grateful for what I have been able to experience. I am so grateful for this opportunity and privilege and the conversion it has brought me. "I cannot say the smallest part which I feel."

Something else I am so grateful for is THE INCREDIBLE BIRTHDAY GIFT that is the daily letters from all the incredible people in my life. I will never forget it. I am working on replying, but it is going to be a process. Hermana Marca says she wants to do the same with her children on their missions... And of course I plan to do it with mine.

Okay, this email has no direction, purpose or organization and I apologize. It feels more like a relaxed conversation with the family. As I am looking back on it, I sound like a huge downer! But just know that I LOVE what I am doing and I am gaining a stronger testimony of Christ's atonement every day.

Oh, forgot to mention, Fernando (their most recent baptism) was recently called as a counselor in the Sunday School presidency and blessed the sacrament yesterday! I felt like a proud mom yesterday in that moment.

I LOVE YOU ALL. Be good. Read your scriptures and pray every day. AND DON'T MISS A SINGLE SUNDAY. Do your part and everything will work out for your good. Blessed be the name of our God.

H. Norton

I received a little piece of revelation that I have been searching for for months (Hilary)

Okay, hey all! Hope this letter finds you happy and healthy! What a great weekend, right? And today also has been so nice. Life is really good.

Okay, first of all, girls can leave at nineteen!!!!! Just like Mom said, the minute President Monson made that announcement, I knew it was a divinely influenced decision. I immediately thought of A . And next, all the C. girls. I am going to write a couple letters and send them home for you to deliver to these girls, Mom, I am so happy that these blessings and this opportunity is going to be so much more available to so many girls. What an incredible blessing this will be. Wow.

Okay, so conference in general was so amazing. Below is what I wrote to President Ghent. 

All is going so well here. What a great weekend. I love conference and especially listening as a missionary, from a totally different aspect.

I am so so grateful to be companions with Hermana Marca and we are working really hard right now. We haven´t seen immediate results to our efforts, but we have been doing our best to continue working with faith that God will keep His part of the promises He gives us. He will bless us and we will see the fruits of our labors. Near the end of this week we felt like, although our lessons weren't perfect, we had really strived to do all we could to bring the Gospel to our investigators. We decided to fast and leave it up the Lord. Sunday morning we met an investigator who sincerely has the desire to be baptized and realized that God will always answer our prayers in HIS own way.

It was really neat listening to conference with a few investigators in mind and also being able to feel the Spirit so strongly. There were a few moments when I received impressions and answers of ways I can help the people I am teaching. I am so grateful for our prophets and the leaders of our church and how intune they are with our needs.

A few of my favorite messages were from Larry Echo Hawk on the Book of Mormon, from Robert C. Gay on integrity and repentance, from Scott D. Whiting, from Elder Eyring, and, of course, from Elder Holland. A few thoughts I gained from this weekend.
"The Lord knows the level of our efforts." Scott D. Whiting
"His time should be enough for us knowing that He wants for us only the best. ... The Lord's delay often seem long... but they are always calculated to bless." Elder Eyring
"Love God and remain clean." Elder Holland
"He is aware of our needs and will help us if we call on Him." President Thomas S. Monson

One thing that is so interesting to me about conference is that although the messages are generally on topics we are familiar with, they will touch our hearts in new ways. Something else I learned this weekend also is that as I promise people the answers to their prayers, I need to remember this promise applies to me as well. God knows me better than I realize and He has my best interest in mind, as well as the best interest of each person here in Ecuador. 

So this morning I received a little piece of revelation that I have been searching for for months. It came so unexpectedly as I was applying my mascara and the minute it came, all my mascara washed off. It was a really special moment and when I think about it I want to cry again. It was really comforting and empowering and I just want to re-testify that God knows us all so personally and sees the future and is guiding us in every way.

Mom, I don't know if I can express to you how much this birthday gift is meaning to me. So many of these letters have included EXACTLY what I have needed to hear this week. I don't know if all who wrote me realized what a blessing this would be for me. Thank you times a million Mom. I love you and am so amazed by all you do for me. All I know is this is the best gift I have ever received and November 1st will be a lonely morning.

Dad, How incredible are these experiences you are having right now? I am amazed. How cool that you were able to answer so many of her questions and be prepared to be exactly what she needed. Elder Holland always teaches of how we should return home from the mission, but never leave the mission field (something along those lines). Your missionary efforts, Dad, have gone so much farther than Chicago, Illinois.

Oh, funny story! The other day a man chewed us out for not knowing Quichua... I'm sorry; it hasn't made it on the priority list since I still am learning Spanish and I am worrying about the salvation of these people here! :)

Well. I have more to say, but I have to go soon so I'll finish up here.

I love you all! Thank you for everything.

Hermana Norton

Love God and remain clean!

"The Lord's way is not hard. Life is hard" (Hilary)

It arrived on September 29th! A personal birthday/missionary message for each day of her birthday month!!!

Dear everyone,

Happy October!! Do something awesome today in honor of the greatest month of the year. I love you all. I hope you all know that life is so good. Realize that, okay? Sometimes we get so caught up in the little things that we forget how blessed we are. If you think life is good, keep thinking that way. If you don't, refer to the quote at the bottom of this email.

Thanks to everyone who participated!

Thanks for writing. Mom, I received your packages :) and I met Sister Hess the other day. She is so sweet. Tell her thanks for me once again. And thank YOU for everything you have sent. I got my birthday package Friday and this morning opened the first envelope! WOOOOO. A letter with a whole bunch of fun stuff from Jesslyn. I felt like I spent the morning hanging out with her. She is so great. She sent me a ton of quotes and a picture and a few missionary comics and fun stuff like that. Oh. How great. I can't wait to open the rest. But I will. But it will be hard. 

So, not too much happened this week. We haven't had too much success, but we are working on finding our flaws and weak spots and improving there. My companion is great. She is so sweet and has taken really good care of me this week because I have been super super sick. Mom, remember that one time that I was so sick and Dr. Seamons said that some of his nurses had been sick with the same thing and they explained it as if they felt like they were hit by a truck...? That is exactly how I felt Saturday and Sunday. Saturday my companion was able to go out and teach and I stayed with some members, but yesterday we were basically stuck in the house all day after church. I literally could not lift my head or walk or talk or eat without a lot of pain. My companion has been super helpful. Friday President Ghent and Hermana Ghent and Hermana Hess were here in Otavalo and he gave me a blessing. I am definitely getting better now. And the elders in our zone have been so concerned. This afternoon they knocked on our door with a handfull of balloons and this box of a whole bunch of chocolates and confetti and random stuff like that. They were like, "Get better! Be careful! Don't work if you shouldn't! Take care of yourself!" That was so so sweet. These guys are so great.

Here is part of my letter to President from this week.

Saturday and Sunday I was super sick, and was not able to go out and teach. Hermana Marca and I were able to find members to do splits with us so that she could accomplish something Saturday, but Sunday we were both stuck in the house. We didn't have the weekend that we were hoping to have and numbers-wise it wasn't so great. But I finally feel like I am getting better and I am really ready to be able to work. I have already learned a lot from Hermana Marca. She is loving and caring and willing to do whatever she needs to to get this work moving. She has a lot of enthusiasm and I am really grateful to be working with her.

At the moment we don't have any investigator with a baptismal date, but we are working on that. We have a few who weren't able to attend church yesterday because they were traveling and we are going to put more baptismal dates this week. That is one thing that I have learned the importance of. I remember before the mission I wondered why people always talked about "numbers." I remember thinking that I wasn't going to put so much focus on the numbers, so much as just helping the people here. But early in my mission I realized why the baptisms are so important. We're not just helping people here, but we're helping them to make saving covenants. That is why there is nothing more important. There will be nothing more important that they do, than to be baptized.

I know there was more I wanted to say, but can't think of it now, and we're out of time. I love you all. Hope all is well. Thanks again for everything.

H. Norton

"The Lord's way is not hard. Life is hard, not the Gospel. There is opposition in all things (2 Nephi 2:11), everywhere, for everyone. Life is hard for all of us, but life is also simple. We have only two choices. We can either follow the Lord and be endowed with His power and have peace, light, strength, knowledge, confidence, and joy OR we can go it some other way, any other way, whatever other way, and go it alone - without His support, without His power, without guidance ... in darkness, turmoil, doubt, grief, and despair. And I ask, which way is easier?" - Elder Lawrence C. Corbridge

Yeah, life is hard sometimes. But I can't imagine how much harder it would be without the gospel.

Yay x3 (Hilary)

OKAY EVERYONE,

Transfers came and Hermana Guevara went. That was tough for her, on many levels (which I will explain in a letter). But my new companion is named Hermana Marca and she is fantastic. I mean, I don't know her too well yet, but I am so relieved to be with her and I am looking forward to this transfer a lot. I have set for myself a lot of new goals and I am really diving into the work.

Okay, exerpt from my letter to President Ghent:

The transfer ended really well here in Imbabura. Saturday was F's baptism and it was really special. He really has been converted to this gospel. It was something I had been praying about for a while, because I really wanted to be able to see the process of how the gospel changes lives from start to finish. Obviously I haven't seen the finish, but I got to see the start and how he was able to change his bad habits and accept the gospel, be baptized and he isn't stopping. He always has in mind his goals of receiving the priesthood and visiting the temple. He is such an example of faith and diligence in the gospel.
Okay, so F. is amazing. I cried a little bit at his baptism. He bore his testimony and it was so cool. I feel so blessed to be able to do this important stuff!!!!!!!!!!! Anway, he is doing so well. Yesterday when Hermana Guevara had to say goodbye to him, he was super bummed, but he was like, "Well, God will send you where he needs you and there is a purpose for you there. I am going to endure to the end and I want to see you on the other side." Whoa. He was one of those people who really was prepared. It was his time. I am so happy for him. 

Okay, funny story. The other day we fasted and I guess it was bad timing. That following morning we had a service project and it was really hard work (Dad, thanks for teaching me how to work. I work harder than more than half of the elders. Actually, I think there is one elder in our zone of eight that works harder than me. We do so much service. I love it. I really love forgetting about everything and just focusing on the labor. Work is nice that way.). Anyway, it was really funny because we both got pretty sick I think from heat exhaustion. Bad planning on our part I guess. But we didn't die. We are fine now.

Okay, so glad to hear that Lucky called! Jaja. And how cool is it that Sam is teaching Ecuadorians?!?!?!?!? I love that. These people are the best. To answer a few of your questions... 1. No, you have the correct address. 2. I don't know if Samantha is here yet, should arrive tomorrow. 3. The other day I received a letter from you with a list of questions I just answered and will send back this week. I also heard from cute Kenz. I hope she is doing well. 4. I am in Imbabura, I don't know if Sister Hess is coming here. She probably just stopped by the offices and dropped the stuff off there. I hopefully will get it via pouch pretty soon here. I haven't gotten the package yet, but I can't wait :) I love the pictures of you and Dad. I miss the Utah autumn!! Today it has been pouring rain -- finally! We have been waiting and waiting! Okay, you should be receiving my letters any day now... When you get the SD card, can you send the pictures of the baptism of G (the first baptism I had with a sweet short lady who doesn't really smile) to rachel.butterfield@myldsmail.net . This is the Hermana that contacted sweet G.

This last change was kind of tough at times. But we had some really amazing experiences too and I know I learned so much. It is cool because before the mission it was like I had a desire to serve and I didn't exactly know why. I knew that I had received so many blessings by having the gospel in my life and I wanted others to be able to have that too. But now that I am here, I am learning there is so much that I needed to learn to be able to move on in life more prepared. I feel like I have just gotten a better/more full perspective of reality. There is a talk by E. Holland where he is talking about how a lot of missionaries use the term "real life" referring to life after and outside of the mission. But E. Holland, as usual, almost yells, "THIS IS REAL LIFE. Capitol R. Capitol L." Cool.  (Might be spelled capital -- I DON'T REMEMBER)

Okay, well, time to go. I love you all. I pray for you every day. Thanks for writing. I MISS YOUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU.

H. Norton

Yes, she looks pretty mild, but this girl is one strong cup of tea       -       Joanna Norton

"Great things come ONLY through much sacrifice!" (Sam)

"A Saint loves the Savior and follows Him in holiness and devotion. Evidence of this kind of holiness and devotion is exemplified by consecration and sacrifice. Sacrifice is the crowning test of the gospel. It means consecrating time, talents, energy, and earthly possessions to further the work of God. In Doctrine and Covenants 97, verse 8, it concludes, 'All . . . who . . . are willing to observe their covenants by sacrifice—yea, every sacrifice which I, the Lord, shall command—they are accepted of me.' "

Quentin L. Cook, "Are You a Latter-day Saint?" New Era, Dec. 2009

¡Muy buenos días!

   Great to hear from everyone back in English speaking land.. I´m still trying to understand the English they speak here..... its some reeeally weird dialect I guess. 

 

   Everything is great here! M. ¡se bautizó! Wooooooooh! M. got baptized! It really is soo awesome to see Spaniards get baptized. Yeah, salvation is the same for everyone... Hah claro, but baptizing a Spaniard is special  :) Our goal for this month as a mission was 70 baptisms which would be about 1 person per companionship. Our goal here in Huércal-Overa was at least one baptism a week. :) first week, 2 baptisms. This last Saturday, 1 baptism. This upcoming Saturday, the 18th, we´re lacking a soul to save. please PRAY WITH US. And the 25th, we are preparing ourselves for a baptism of at least 3, maybe 5, hopefully 6. :) Depending on what happens with families and people and the will of the Lord and such. We´ll keep working and praying.. again, please pray with us! :)

 

   Funny story real quick. M. got baptized this Saturday right? And for converts, they do the confirmation the next day in church. Turns out she doesn´t show up............ and so we start..... and we sing.. and we pray..... and then President has a couple announcements..... and he´s looking at the program that says... "confirmation of M"... and she´s not there. So he says, "Well, we´re going to move on to the next part of the meeting, la Santa Cena"... and right then, M. and her little 3 year old daughter M. come in. :) and President says, "and before we participate in the sacrament, M. will be confirmed a member of the church. We´ll take care of that right now." :D WHAT A MIRACLE. Ahhh soo great! She was kinda confused. She came in and sat down, and wasn´t really listening to what President Álverez was saying and then we invite her up to the front and within a minute of her arrival, four sets of hands were on her head :) and a Sacred Saving Ordinance took place. Wow.

 

   Anyways, a couple comments and answers to your emails real quick...

Dad, I love those two stories that Penny shared. He´s gonna rock the mish. Ahhh MISSIONS ARE SO GREAT. IF YOU ARE READING THIS RIGHT NOW GO ON A MISSION. But really, anyone that is thinking about going on a mission, you have My Word, it is By Far, the greatest thing I have done in my life. Yes, probably the hardest as well. In my opinion, THAT IS WHY it is the greatest thing I have done in my life. Great things come ONLY through much sacrifice.

   Anyways, papa, thanks for the missionary/doctrinal info. LOVE IT. REALLY. And I love love the world updates. We Hear Nothing Here. NOTHING. Keep me updated por favor.

   Please don´t sell the mini cooper before I get home. :)

   Great story about Adam ... ADAM. IS. A. MACHINE. But whats new.... :)  te quiero amigo!

   Mitch! Keep me updated on the baby!! Its coming soon right?

   btw, ask Will Montgomery if he got my letter please... and if so, give him a hard time for not writing me back. :)

   And yes, I do get Hermana Norton's emails. Should I forward mine to her too... or are you forwarding them to her?

   I haven´t gotten the letter yet but it´ll get here tomorrow morning. I´m sure the one for P will make sense but i´ll read it before to make sure. :) Thanks mama!

   Ahhh Mom! the notes from that talk. Loved them. Thank you so much!

 

We have to go! The store we´re emailing from is closing and we´re out of time. I don´t have my camera with me today so no pictures.. :( sorry  i´ll remember next time!

¡Os quiero muchísimo! (I love you very much!)

-Elder Norton

I'm a real missionary with awkward tanlines and bed bugs (Hilary)

Hey everyone,

   I love you all and I hope you're doing so well. I love receiving your letters (Mom, today I received a card from you.. and the scriptures from Grandma with my name inscripted on them.) and emails. It's really cool for me to be able to see the happiness that our family has from the outside. I mean, I'm still on the inside of the family, but I'm just seeing pictures and hearing about what you're up to and realizing more and more how blessed and happy we are. God is good.

   Okay, I hope Cali is fun. I hope the Rice family is doing so well. I care about you guys so so much! Dad, good luck with the Rolls Royce...
   Okay, a few things I've been wanting to share: First, the food here is better than I've ever had in my life. I mean, nothing beats a home cooked meal by Mom, but people here are like, "What kind of food do you like, Hermana Norton?" and I'm like "THIS food!" Always soup and rice and bananas and corn prepared in all different ways. I need to make a journal of all the amazing things I eat and get the recipes. I have yet to eat anything seriously gross, like guinea pig. Prayers are answered.

Hilary's companion, Hrm Rodriguez, at their apartment

 There is a volcano we can see from our window and I think sometimes there is lava coming out of it. (Wow, I can't believe this sentence made it into my weekly email. How insignificant.)
   I have tan lines on my feet. I don't know why I feel like that is so noteworthy, but to me it means that I'm a real missionary. A real missionary with awkward tanlines and bed bugs (yep. but the members here tell me that I have fewer bites than the Hna who slept in my bed before me... so... there is a silver lining to every cloud, right?)

  Our newest investigator has a baptismal date, but is extremely sick and can't attend church, thus, we have to push off his baptism. It's a big bummer because he is so receptive and really progressing, aside from church attendance (J.P). 
 We've also been working with a girl named G who is so great. The problem we often run into is that the people want to learn and are so anxious to listen, but don't realize that they need to be baptized to receive all the blessings promised. I've been trying to put more emphasis on the Book of Mormon because once they gain a testimony of it, they will realize the need to join the true church, and not just rely on the Catholic baptism as a child. I want so badly for these people to have this. I'm trying to do what I can and need to so that I can be an effective instrument.
   Mom, I want you to know that the families here in this branch have taken such good care of me. I think if you knew how much they do for us missionaries you would be brought to tears in gratitude. I am so thankful for the members here and I just wanted you to know that there are people on this side of the world taking care of me that you should express gratitude for.
   Okay, I want to share two quotes.

"We look back to claim the embers from glowing experiences but not the ashes. And when we have learned what we need to learn and have brought with us the best that we have experienced, then we look ahead and remember that faith is always pointed toward the future." Jeffrey R. Holland

"Those who diligently seek to learn of Christ eventually will come to know Him. They will personally receive a divine portrait of the Master, although it most often comes in the form of a puzzle -- one piece at a time. Each individual piece may not be easily recognizable by itselfñ it may not be clear how it relates to the whole. Each piece helps us to see the big picture a little more clearly. Eventually, after enough pieces have been put together, we recognize the grand beauty of it all. Then, looking back on our experience, we see that the Savior had indeed come to be with us -- not all at once but quietly, gently, almost unnoticed." E. Uchtdorf

This is how my testimony has come. Especially in these past few months of my life, February to now. I am so grateful for this Gospel and I can testify that Heavenly Father knows each of us personally and our circumstances. He is real. This is the true church. The Book of Mormon is true and contains the fulness of the gospel. Christ lives and loves us.

Hna. Norton