February 27, 2013 Update

Dear Family, Friends, and whoever else happens to read this,

Where to start? Our area continues to go forward as seek to strengthen the members and work with the leaders to help them form a united ward. I can't say enough of how much difference it makes to have a welcoming ward for when we bring investigatrors, etc. At this point, there are amazing individuals, and we are working to help them see and be aware of that in each other.

One of these amazing members is Tina Frau. She is a 74 year old Sardanian with a will like few I have ever known. Her husband left her and her five children over thirty-five years ago, leaving her to provide for them along. It was after this that she met the missionaries. She remains the one source of income in her home, which still includes children and grandchildren. Yet her I will never forget her behavior this last Monday at our family home evening. Her home is open to all, including her ex-husband and his companion. After talking of the celestial kingdom, she shared her testimony that it is true and invited them to meet with the missionaries so that they can receive the blessings of this happiness. The evening then ended as she danced to the closing hymn. It truly is amazing what power the gospel brings into our lives and allows us to extend the same blessings to those around us no matter the circumstances.

As for me, I am still learning daily and learning to live each moment to the fullest without hurrying on to the next. With the new sisters, Slla Caramia and I will probably only be together for one transfer, as there is a good chance both of us will be training this next transfer or the following. In other words, we are living and learning from each other as much as we can. At the end of the transfer, twenty missionaries are returning home, including half of my companions and most of the Elders with whom I have served. Last week, we received notice that as of July, our mission will be under the direction of Michael and Anna Waddoups, from West Jordan, Utah. A lot of change coming. Such is a part of life.

Tanto amore e un abbraccio forte,

Sorella Lovell