Email received Aug 31, 2009

I have great faith in the promise of a letter, but I've heard that Las Vegas mail is slow compounded by having to go through the mission office first, so no, I have not yet received said correspondence. We've been checking the mail every day and every time my companion says: "This one must be for you!" and every day she receives a letter or a package while promising that she has never received this much mail before. I think the Lord is just testing my faith. On this subject I will be sending you a funny story, but I will send it in pieces so as to draw out the pleasure and joy it will bring. I was considering sending pictures for y'all to enjoy while D&C are there, but I would have to send them today and I haven't even picked them up yet. Do you recall the days when the photo drop box was easy to find? Now they have a section with at least six digital print stations which we walked around twice before realizing that old-fashioned film must be turned in to the associate at the counter (though they "no longer offer 1-hour service, it won't be ready for a week" - okay, I'll be here next week, I just want my pictures!) Now that we've changed topics, the picture from the mission home is decent, but as you may recall from my application process, I could not find a picture I deemed worthy so I leave that decision in your hands. (Editor's note: This is in reference to what picture should be placed in her missionary plaque at church.) I believe next Mon is a holiday, so I might not be able to email if the library is closed, but will you send me Launa's physical address and the address to BAM? (Editor's note: BAM = Books A Million, her former employer.) Thanx! I want to tell you all about the wonderful people we're teaching, but where could I start? There are amazing people out there who desperately need what we have whether it be the gospel, strength and wisdom, or just love and support. Do not be stingy, you'd be surprised at how easy it is to love anyone and how grateful they may be for anything you have to offer. Perfect love casteth out all fear, so go forth and be bold in your loving!