My "Son" Shine State

Greetings from the most beautiful place in the world. I think I mentioned this last October but it is SO amazingly perfect here in October. I couldn't have asked for a better place. I call it my "Son"shine state because not only does the sun shine always but because this is where I came to know more personally the Son, my Savior Jesus Christ. A couple weeks ago my mission president told me that I needed to study the atonement more. I  thought that was interesting because I am not this super rebelious person who goes around destroying the church, well at least not trying to. But I've learned never argue with your leaders but do what they say and you'll be blessed. So I did. I started what I call "Grace's Atonement book" I am writing anything and everything about my knowledge and personal experiences with the atonement. Holy cow, talk about changing a persons perspective! I have never realized before just how much I need a Savor. I also realized how much more I need to testify of Him. The gospel is His gospel. We wouldn't even have eternal families, or hope or anything if it wasn't for Him. I've had a very tender week as I've focused all my studies on Him and what He means to me personally.  It's been a beautiful process coming to know my Savior more.

This week we had our day of service. I've been helping plan and prepare for this since I got here and it was so fun to see it all come together. We tied over 100 quilts to give to those in need here in Tampa Bay. We've been working closely with other churches in the area and tried to turn it into a community event. It was a great turn out and a lot of fun. Sister Wilson and I even donated blood. Saving souls and lives... it's a tough job but someone has to do it :)

 

Aaron and his family continue to do well. He taught us how to make a pumpkin cheesecake and it was delicious!  We watched the Mountain of the Lord and it made me realized just how much I love the temple. Man I can't wait to go back. Also I never really noticed but I kind of miss the Salt Lake Valley. Never thought I would say that but I do. Mostly just the mountains I miss but it's a part of me. For now I guess I'll have to settle with Palm trees and sunny beaches. So sad :)

 

We also did a zone car wash. It was pretty fun and we got a fairly good turn out. Gave a church tour and handed out a couple copies of the Book of Mormon.

 

We had a baptism for a girl that we've been teaching and working with her family. It was one of those baptism that you weren't sure if it was going to happen until about an hour before. So we were on edge all day and then bam, grab the suits, fill the font, lets go. Everything was good except somebody locked the door to water pump and no one had a key. We were running around trying to find a way to open it. It ended up with a screw driver and a full font. That's all I am going to say about that :) Don't worry, it was all legal and the bishop was involved.

 

Well sorry this is so short, well maybe you're not sorry, but I need to get going. I love you all. Thanks for your prayers. Oddly enough I can feel the strength of them. We get transfer call Saturday so we'll see if I get 6 more weeks in Carrollwood or where I will be.

 

Enjoy the pictures!

 

Love

 Sister Grace Thomas