Where to start...

So....Where to start.....

I guess today I just want to send a quick email to tell everyone back home how much I love and appreciate them. I know I say it all the time, but I'm not sure that anyone believes me. I really do have the best friends and family. I always have a smile on my face because Heavenly Father blessed me with you. Yes, you referring to all who are reading this email and even those who may just be quietly going on with their lives, whether it be in Mexico, El Salvador, Provo, Logan, Lindon, St. George, Vegas, Texas, Illinois, Washington, New York, Canada, Australia, Russia, Germany, or just good ol' Fountain Green--wherever you are! Just know that I love you all and feel very thankful this Thanksgiving for the blessing God has given me to let our paths cross at one point in my life or another.

Like any other missionary during this week, I would just like to express my gratitude for the fullness of the gospel that we have on the earth today, for the blessing of living prophets and apostles, for the Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine & Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price, for temples and family history work, for the Priesthood, and for the promise of eternal families. I am so grateful that every day I get to wake up and share such a wonderful message of peace and joy to all of the people here in Corozal. I love being a missionary. And I get to continue to be one even past the end of this life--throughout the eternities! And I can think of no greater calling than that. :)

On Monday, we had a multi-zone/Thanksgiving activity in Belize City. I was able to talk to one of the assistants who came up from El Salvador. When I served in Miramonte, he had accompanied us on one of our lessons with Diana, who was later baptized. She.....well....she is very special. One of my dearest friends, even to this day. After I was transferred to the other area in the ward, I wasn't able to visit her as often and she began to not attend church. She finally came on the last Sunday before I came here to Belize. I have been so worried that she wasn't going to continue going after I left, but Elder Garcia informed me that as of two weeks ago, she was still active and happy. Such blessings and happiness to my soul! :D I testify that this gospel is true. And there is no greater happiness that we can feel on this earth than the happiness that comes from being a missionary. I LOVE seeing the lives of other people change for the better as they come unto Christ and experience the love He has for them.

I know that you all are children of God. He loves you and is aware of you. He is with us in every moment and is guiding us to His home. Keep doing all of the little things--studying your scriptures daily, praying, going to church, etc. For I know that it is by small and simple things that great things are brought to pass. Each of those will strengthen your testimony and help you to recognize God's hand in your lives. I love you all and hope you have a great Thanksgiving. Count your blessings (name them chree by chree! *shoutout to Florita* Everyong loves songs in Kriol.... ;) haha) and remember that you're in my prayers.

Love Always,

Sista M.

P.S. Does anyone have any suggestions/remedies to stop itching mosquito bites? The sisters here in the house have forbidden hugs from me until I stop scratching. I am one deprived missionary down here! ;) Any suggestions would be much appreciated.... :D Have a great week!