Christmas in the Rica

Oh my gosh. It's Christmas already. My first and last one in the mission. I'm kinda really grateful for that, cause it is a hard time to be away from home. 

Today we had our Christmas activity with half the mission. Nope Preston wasn't there... but I will see him in January WHEN ELDER COOK FROM THE QUORUM OF THE 12 COMES!!!! WOOSH!!!!!!!! So excited. We've had 5 Apostles here in the past 18 months, says President.... oh but anyways, our activity was soooo cool. We went to a Sr. home, and sang Christmas carols and talked to the old people and shared the Christmas story with them. It was so cute. I'm a lot more comfortable talking to old people... hahaha its easier that's for sure. Then we went and ate lunch, which was SOOO GOOD. Everything with out rice and beans is really good. hahaah then we listened to President talk and share a story, and listned to a couple missionaries about their experiences here in the mission. Then they gave us recommend covers for temple recommends, and also, Hna Coburns parents flew out here just to give us cookies... yes they were the same ones that sent us chik fi la in the MTC. hahahah.... but they also gave presents to those who don't get anything from their families... my comp got a bunch of stuff... I actually got a call from President on Friday asking if she recived anything yet, and other than the present you sent, no. so they put a huge package together for her.... she was crying... there's a whole bunch of families from the Presidents stake in Utah that sent the mission a whole crap load... there are so many good people out there.... it makes me happy that people actually understand the reason for the season.

We found 14 new investigators this week, thanks to our other investigators... it was absolutely amazing to share experiences and hear all the questions that people have about the gospel, because they hear so much that isn't true at all. And their view changes so much and aren't scared to talk to us now. Hahaha and they really enjoy the reunions at church. Can't say you don't like something until you try it, right? 

So our zone conference was sick!!! We have some great missionaries and leaders in this mission. We honestly have THE BEST mission, in the whole world... anyways, we talked a lot about working with the members and we should be obedient with exactness, sometimes we forget those little things that will make us better missionaries, there's the 3 glories and then outer darkness, and they asked us what one we are in right now with our obedience, hahaha I'm glad I can say I'm obedient, but there is always room for improvement. 

We had divisions this week as well, with the Hermanas, I was with Hermana Ogletree. She's so awesome! We had a whole lot of fun! And she taught me a lot and she is such an example to me and such a great missionary, I learned a lot and learned what I can do better. She said that everyone is happy with us so we don't need to worry. That's reassuring. 

Hna Wilkinson called us and told us to tell her when we have baptisms, cause she wants to be there. She has so much stuff to do, being the wife of the presidnet and having a family, but she is still supporting her missionaries. It is so great having such an amazing support system here in the mission. 

I was made a freee woman this week. Thanks to witch magic and laxitives. I'm all ready to eat it up this week. I've never felt this good in 8 months. hahaah just a little advice, if you need a little boost, just get a sick massage and drink laxitives.... ITS AWFUL!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I cried. hahaha The mission does that to people... its a love hate relationship... 

So yesterday at church one of the leaders was in the class for the investigators and after he was like, how's their situation at home? and honestly we teach POOR people.... but we were like, it's actually horrible.... and now he has plans to buy them Christmas dinner... and food for a while... I CRIED. I'm so sensitive, and its ridiculous. hahahah the mission does that too.... but seriously, he has such a kind heart and doesn't even think twice about helping people. It's amazing to see miracles happen. Even if they are just little ones.

Like one of the investigators that's trying to stop her habit of alcohol, her husband doesn't want to do anything about it, but she has the desire to change, and its gonna be hard because she doesn't have a lot of support from her family, but she understands so much about the Atonement of Christ and how she can apply in her life.... but its a process. we all go through it, and the most important part, I think, is not to start over with that weakness we have. Yeah, it's hard, but it's SO WORTH IT! It all is. As long as we have our lives centered in Christ, everything will turn out alright.

I learned from the president today, that the best gift we can give to Christ this time of season, is to be our best, and be the best we can be for the coming year... not just this time of year, but for our lives. everyday.... the greatest gift I could recieve, is to be with my family forever, and to have the Atonement in my life. It's hard being away from home, but I'm here because my family will be blessed... I LOVE IT :) I can already see the miracles and blessings in my life, and I only have 9 months! I  have eternity to recieve those blessings. life couldn't be better :)

Thank you for all of your examples for me. I am so grateful to have this gospel in my life. 

I hope everyone has a wonderful CHRISTmas. Enjoy your time together, that's the most important. :)

All I want for christmas is youuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu... Mariah Carey says it best. 

xoxoxo peace and blessings 

Hermana Boer

Hola, from The Ricaaaaaaaaaa.

Thanks for all the photos and videos of putting up the Christmas tree. I'll be home for the next one... where we will go into the mountains to get it.. this tree lot crap is not fun at all. :)

So transfers were crazy. We didn't get changed, Lundberg went home, Elder Taylor went to the zone where Preston is, and our district leader got changed to our new zone leader. haha we were soooo confused. But not a whole lot of changes were made. So that was nice.

We did get some bad news from the Elders. They said that if the members don't start giving us support and work with us, the President is gonna take missionaries out of Concepcion, they have 5 weeks to start or the work won't be moving forward here after January... That's what happens when members aren't being missionaries as well. START WORKING. We all want missionaries in our wards!! don't be shy. ask them. they will love to have you visit with them.

Our last zone\district meeting for the transfer was sick. We played basketball as an example of working with the ward council and members. they said I was beast on defense. and I was in a skirt. hahah it was so fun. my team won. of course. It was great. 

Wednesday, we went and helped a family paint. I love painting. We painted their whole house, inside and out... and the fence. It was a lot of work. but of course it was fun. I got to do all the high stuff, cause beleive it or not, I am the tallest one here.. I swear, they're always like, where's the gringa? I need somebody tall. I don't mind, :)

Thursday, we had permission to go to the temple with the ward, and we were going to take Juan Carlos to see what it's like and what not. He was excited to go... but then people showed up that weren't on the list, and there wasn't any room in the van they took. So we got kicked out,  we understand, and Juan Carlos because he wasn't able to enter... it was kinda sad... why don't the take a van like the Bruneels have,?? I dunno, but that would  be smart. haha  they said that we could go with them another time, and when Juan Carlos is able to go. So we are hoping for a day this week :) Keyling (the sister of Juan Carlos) started to cry cause we weren't able to go... it was a huge mess and the spirit was not present, so it was good not to go, cause I didnt wanna feel all that tension.

The baptism went REALLY well. There's always Satan trying to stop us in one way or another, but it always works out how the Lord wants it too. We don't have keys to the chapel, so we asked our mission leader to leave them for us because he had to work so we had to do everything. They were locked in his house... we finally found somebody who had keys, and the font didn't start filling up till 30 mins before... because only 1 spout worked, the dad of Juan Carlos said he wasn't able to come cause of a meeting he had to go to... BUT it all happened. and he was baptized, and it was really neat, and he has a strong testimony and is ready to serve a mission. but we will wait a year :) 

We went to Claudias to visit after the baptism... she almost died last week. It was scary.. we had an appointment and they weren't in their house so we called, and her husband said that she was in the hospital unconcious, and that she couldn't breath... but it wasn't her time to go... I know its not, cause she has to go through the temple for herself, not for a proxy... so she's doing a lot better, but it's sad..... she gave us clothes and shoes!! woot woot! There's a latino who has the same shoe size as me!!! can you beleive it!?!? and she has style... and its really funny cause she only buys stuff cause she likes it.. doesn't matter if it fits or not... I'm happy about it. I'll come home with style, no big deal... 

Yesterday we went and visited Azucena, an investigator, and she now has a date to get baptized :) and we also found 5 new investigators, all from her family!! They have a HUGE problem with the word of wisdom, and haven't seen their kids for like 3 years because of their problems.... we shared some mormon messages of looking towards the future and stuff like that, and they were all crying, saying they want to change, and that they don't want to feel this way anymore, and that they need help. It's great that they realize their weaknesses, and have  the desire to change. We are starting to do classes for them with a member on how to over come addictions, and as well teaching them the gospel. We invited Azucena to get baptized, and her daughter in law was like, why just her?? haha so we gave her a date as well, but she has to be detoxed for a little bit longer than 21 days, so we will see what happens. but the Spirit was so strong!! its unbelieveable!! :)

 I love this gospel. its the best EVER. 

I'm sad I will miss the Christmas lights this year at temple square. can't believe a year ago I went through the temple :) the best time of year in SLC. have fun Christmas shopping. Enjoy the snow for me! 

Remember. God knows you better than you know yourself. So does satan. CTR. Recognize your weaknesses and change them. I BELIEVE IN YOU! 

I LOVE YOU!

Remember the reason for the season. God is good.

And Jesus lives. 

so does Hermana Boer. :)

December 9, 2013

Hi. Just wanted to say. I GOT MY CHRISTMAS PACKAGE. be jealous, I've got the best parents in the world. My comp thinks so too. :) and I got letters from Tay and the fam and from the Woods and from Snyders and Elly. THANK YOU ALL!!! I love every second while reading them. Y'all are the best. Thank you.

This week wasn't very exciting, only a couple updates comin your way... I'll start with the best one...

JUAN CARLOS IS GETTING BAPTIZED!!!!!! This friday!!! on Tuesday, we got some help from other missionaries on what to tell him and what he should do. So we took the advice of our leaders.. which is always good. Anyways we went to his house and challenged him to talk to his mother, for heaven sake, and he was like ok yeah. I will. He doesn't have a lot of faith in that, but I'm sure its changed. anyways, we were walking back to the house, and I was feeling a little bummed cause he was a little hesitant to say yes... while thinkin that a car pulled up behind us and it happened to be the young mens president. he was like, how do you feel about the announcement!?!? what announcement??? oh you havent heard?? well don't tell anyone that I told you, but the bishop talked to the mom on Juan Carlos, and she gave him permission!! he's gonna get baptized the following Friday!!!!! We started crying. haha I'm such a baby. the best news, right??

Soooo I cut my hair. Only a little bit. But guess what. A BLIND LADY CUT IT! #livinontheedge adrenelin rushing, am I right, or am I right? yeah, she's been blind for 3 years, but has cut hair for 32... so she knows her stuff. I was nervous, but it turned out really nice. it's not as long, but it'll be super long when I get back home. It's crazy what a nice trim will do.

Our neighbor, just happens to be excommunicated, and he was like, yeah its not easy coming back, I've heard, so I'm not gonna try, its not worth it. I wanted to slap him in the face. WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOUR SALVATION IS NOT WORTH IT!?!?!?!? he's crazy!!!!  Does he not realize what he will be missing??! yeah, just kickin it with our Heavenly Father, and Christ. no big deal...  its heartbreaking, when he knows! he served a mission and everything. a convert when he was 20. he's got a testimony. but he's just stupid.... I had to take deep breaths... I still am. haha

So the Christmas devo was the bomb, as usual! right??? I love listening to the mo tab, its relaxing, and the messages were fantastic. I love listening to the words of the prophets and all that good stuff. We brought 7 investigators to that... we only got 2 in sacrament meeting... we are hoping that they'll show up to church just like they show up to the devos. haha its hard to get lazy people outta their houses.

We get a little bored on the bus sometimes or walking in the street, so we play the game where if you see a nun, you hit your comp. she always wins, cause I'm never really lookin out for them, not like there everywhere or anything, haha but anyways, I saw one, and I hit her as hard as I could, while we were waiting for some other hermanas. she was like, owwww why so hard! I was like, I was so excited I didn't know what to do, so it just happened!! hahahah it was funny...

I can't believe its been another 6 weeks. Time is crazy fast. Soon it will be Christmas, and then new years, and then mothers day, and then my birthday, and then I'm home. WHAT IS THIS!?!?! I'm still not confident about my español. but then I hear somebody say something wrong, and I'm like, hey comp that's wrong right? and she's like, yeah you learn on your own, I haven't taught you anything. You are good to go. hahahaaha she's the best. I'm still workin on that confidence stuff, but it's getting there. I feel better in lessons and I feel better talking to random people on the street or bus, when I've never liked doing that in my life. #shystatus anyways. The prayers really help. Thank you.

Ecclesiastes 3. enjoy. cause there's a time for everything. :)

I'm excited to get those Christmas cards. *hint hint*

Costa Rica sends its love. PURA VIDA

love, Joce

December 2, 2013

8 months in the mission!?!?! I'm almost half way done. I don't even wanna think about it. Time is flying by... don't know how I feel about it. And its almost Christmas..... wow. and its the dry season here, so its freakin hot... I should remember to wear sunscreen this time of year.

Anyways. it was a pretty good week this week. ok it was awesome!!! one of the best that we have had in concepcion in the past... I dunno maybe a year. 

Tuesday after the district meeting, we went to do interviews with the elders, they went really well, and we called the mom of Juan Carlos to see if we could interview him just to see his progress... they have pre paid phones here and its really annoying when the time cuts off and you can't call them back... so we are still working with the mom... she didn't pray, but we told her that its really important so we will talk to her tonite to see what happens. She's really a nice person, but understands nothing about the priesthood... so its hard trying to explain that just because he was baptized in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost doesn't mean his baptism counts.... theres wayyyy too many religions out here... its crazy.

A young woman in the ward, the daughter of the area 70.. who is in our ward... asked us if she could come do visits with us. Of course we said yes, this is the first time anybody has wanted to work with the missionaries. haha she was awesome. And her testimony is so strong. It's neat to see that some kids these days actually have testimonies of their own, and not just from their parents who are strong in the church! And one of the other young women, who is on vacations for the month wanted to come with us another day as well... she's awesome, but is deathly afraid of dogs... ITS NOT A JOKE, the dogs and missionaries, together, don't really work out too well.... 

we were going to visit a contact that we had on the street, we went but they weren't there, so about an hour later we went back. and we had no idea they had a dog until it jumped over the fence, barking, while my comp and the chica were screaming, and I was like "shut up! its gonna come after us if you keep screaming"... they don't listen when they're scared.. it came down the stairs after us, and my comp is running around like a chicken with its head cut off, and the dog is following her, and finally she jumps back, and the dog latches onto her skirt... rips her skirt, and shes still screaming.. hahahahah finally the owners get it to calm down, and they're all like, "oh my gosh I'm so sorry, how embarrassing, here is a change of clothes, I'll fix that skirt for you".. hahaha and my comp still can't think and she's shaking and doesn't know what to say... so I'm like, is it okay if we come back another day? hahaha and the chica that was with us was almost crying... while about 100 yards ahead of us. haha SO FUNNY. and ya can't trust the dogs here... they're all from the street. #rabiestatus

I MADE TAMALES!!!! gosh dang I dunno what to do with all this talent now.... I'll share it with my future husband... hahahaha WHAT!?!?! yeah right...

no but seriously, I learned how to make tamales. and it was the best afternoon of my life. and we made dessert ones as well. SO GOOD. I'm proud of myself. It's a freakin proccess though, that's for sure. It's not like empanadas, where ya just throw a ready mix bag in water and there ya have it.... it takes work.... and its so worth it after, cause they are SO DELISH. 

FREAKIN PAUL WALKER DIED!?!?!? WHAT IS THIS!?!? the second coming is soon. so sad.

anyways now i got that off my chest...

So our funny little mission leader decided to pull a sick joke on us and call us Friday night to say that Juan, the bishops dad decided that he wasn't ready for baptism... after I got settled down and he told us it was just a joke, we decided to do the same to the elders... they flipped... haha but anyways, at 10:40 our mission leader called us again, and was like sorry it's late but the bishop just called and sayed that we can't have the baptisms till after church on Sunday cause the chapel isn't dedicated yet. OK BRO, you are killin me. no it wasn't a joke, and the elders didn't believe us... they even called us Saturday afternoon asking how the baptisms went. haha dude, it didn't happen... ohh I thought it was a sick joke, we couldn't beleive you a second time! hahaha yeah... the baptisms didn't happen saturday BUT we had our open house of the chapel Saturday night. it was a good turn out, but not alot of investigators showed up cause it was too late and its "too dangerous" to be out that late. ok 6 at night people. DONT BE LAZY.... and I made sure to tell them that there was food! It didn't help so much. 

Sunday we had... no not 86, or 63, OR 98 people at church, but 156!!!! what!?!?!? are you kidding me! thats a miracle for this ward! And the chapel is a freakin miracle for the area. Even though like 30 of them were visiting for a baby blessing, it was still awesome. the classes were full of people, and the baptisms were AMAZING, and like half of the ward stayed for them. 

Yamileth, the lady that has a baptism date, and is pregnant, isn't pregnant anymore. she had her baby sunday... she sent us a message at 5 in the morning saying she wasnt able to come to church, and we got a message right before church saying that she had her baby... we don't know if thats a good or bad  thing yet... shes gotta get baptized...

But the dad of Nikol showed up to church and the baptism. I think that it was a turning point for him. To have his daughter set an example, was the best thing that could happen. He told us he wants to stop drinking, and he wants our help, and they want to go visit the temple grounds!!! what!! He's Catholic and wants to die Catholic. nope, not gonna happen. haha we'll change that right around for ya.

Oh my gosh, to see Padre Juan get baptized was a miracle as well. The bishop started crying during the baptism prayer, and barely choked it out. but yeah, finally, it happened and we couldnt be happier...

Our neighbors are inactives for about 3 years, and we finally got to share a message with them, and they were so bummed they couldn't make it to church yesterday, but said they really want to make it back to church, cause they just feel like something is missing, and the mom isn't a member and wants to go as well. It's so awesome.

honestly, I've seen so many miracles in just this past week, and I know that only more can come my way... and I'm excited to see them. 

The mission is the best. 

y'all should read James chapter 3. its so good.

and read, "merciful obtain mercy" by Elder Uchtdorf. its so good.

and as well as D&C 6:19. do it and be blessed.

I still can't believe I'm in a whole different world here, preaching the best thing in my life, the gospel. I thought that getting married and getting a career, and hanging out with friends was great, yeah it is, and I miss those things sometimes, but it's gonna be even better when I get back. And the mission is the best thing for me in my life right now, and I couldnt be happier :) I have the best companion, the best support system, and I'm in the best mission. and I'm not alone, I not only have my cousin here with me, but I also have a Heavenly Father, who loves me and watches out for me. My testimony is strengthened everyday. 

be happy, be mormon, be you. (my comp says this all the time) :)

November 25, 2013

HIIIIIIII!!!!!

I can't believe its Thanksgiving this week. I totally forgot.. cause it doesnt exist here. which is sad. why can't they have a day where they just stuff their face with turkey and watch football??? lame...

AND ITS MOTHERS BIRTHDAY!!!! 29!! AGAIN!!! wow... time flies right? you are gettin old momma. happy birthday. you are the best.

First, I just wanna say how thankful I am for all of you in my life. I'm thankful for all the love and support you have given me in this awesome journey I've decided to take. I'm thankful for the gospel and the happiness its brings into my life. I'm thankful for the sacrifice of Jesus, and because of that, I can be a better person everyday. I'm thankful for the missionary work, and the time I have in Costa Rica to serve the Lord. I'm sooooooo thankful for my family. I love them... Im thankful for email... cause I would die if we could only write letters. I'm thankful for my bed at home, cause its waiting for me to get back. I miss it... I'm thankful for American food. I'm thankful for english. hahahah ok I'm just being dumb. I'm thankful for everything. 

So we talked with the mom of juan carlos!! its was scary cause all we have heard is harsh things about her, but shes chill. she just feels like he shouldnt get baptized again cause he was baptized in his other church. but we invited her to pray about it, and told her about the authority... so we will probably hear from her tomorrow! its so sad because he has no support here, or from Nicaragua. only from us and the bishop, so we will see what happens.

Gaby let us know that she cant get married, because she doesn't have her papers, so she has to go to Nicaragua to get them... in April... but she still wants to get baptized... well there's a problem, you gotta move out if you wanna get baptized. she doesn't understand the law of chastity.. so its frusterating trying to teach her it like 3 times and still doesn't get it. and its sad knowing that her boyfriend is a member and doesn't support her decision, and only wants her for other stuff.....

So this past week, we set a bunch of baptisms dates, more than ever in this area. the work is moving. but we also have the family of Ivania and Juan that are preparing for baptism. It's exciting. they are the ones that were having problems with their church... they were never baptized and they really wanna follow the example of Christ. they are pretty golden. and also, the lady thats pregnant accepted a date, buttttt shes about ready to pop.. so we will see what happens. but her daughter is really excited to be a member. which is exciting for us...

There's this little part of our area that's supposed to be dangerous, but we have never been worried about it... but we ran into some youth up there, and they were like hey will you teach us english, and I was like, heck yeah I will! and I was thinkin that they're really cool and what not... but then we talked some more with them... its sad what the world does to these kids.. they are just starting their lives and they ruin it with all the drugs and parties and stuff... I'm so glad I was raised right and have a good support system...

My comp has a problem with being sarcastic, thanks to all the gringa comps shes had her whole mission... the latinos do not understand sarcasm, so when shes sarcastic, they feel bad... and its really annoying how she can't take a joke, but can totally mess around with other people.. so I let her know this past week. and she made our mission leader really upset because she was just being a brat.. so I let her know what shouldn't happen... she's a lot better.. but I can never be sarcastic with the latinos, cause I don't know words in spanish.. haha ok thats a lie, I just learned in my first area with the crazy Guatamalan that I can't be sarcastic. sometimes just gotta put people in their place... haha

So everyday we have to talk to 10 people that we don't know, right?? We always decided to bring up Christmas, and if they want to hear a christmas song. it works everytime. I love it. cause I think I can sing better than I can talk in spanish. and they are always like, come back again and sing some more, we love how you girls sing! nailed it.

Our mission leader is gonna ask his girlfriend to get married... the ring is HUGE. I hate it. cause I'm like, everybody is getting married and all I got is a CTR ring on my finger. it's ok. Single is good. Preston thinks that I'm gonna be married before he gets off his mission. I bet I won't be. I'll have a year to avoid boys while Preston is still here. hahahaha 

Saturday we went to Tres Rios for the mormon helping hands service project. Look for me on the web page and in the Liahona. no big deal, just helping the world one mormon hand at a time. It was actually really neat.. we recycled a whole bunch and went around and told people the importance of that, and how to avoid dengae. which is like west nile virus. 

Sunday I gave a talk in church... I've been lucky. I've been out almost 8 months and it was my first time talking in church. I talked about the missionary work. surprise. but I put people in their place... gotta be firm with these latinos or they do nothing... even if you are firm, they still dont do anything. But I felt the power haha so hopefully it touched the peoples hearts. hahah

Friday we talked to the presidents wife, and she was like you want to come to my house and make cookies on pday? and we were like yeah of course. and then we called her last night, and she was like there is a problem, the new people have their month checkup tomorrow, so we can't make cookies. and we were like, we can help you if you need it, and she was like yes please of course!! So we went and helped her cook and buy food and stuff. It was fun to spend time with her. Shes sooooooo funny!!! I love her. I learn alot from her. She's the best... AND I got to see Preston again!!! People still get surprised when we hug, and Hna Wilkinson was like, Yes of course you can hug him!! haha we ate so much food. but we had hamburgers. It was like an American cookout. loved it. 

so I really like these scriptures... 

1 nephi 13:37. its pretty powerful. as you can probably tell, im starting to read the BOM again, so all the scriptures are from 1 nephi. haha

 Genesis 21:6... hahaha enjoy!

Happy Thanksgiving. enjoy the parade, and the football games, and the turkey, and the break from school and work! 

I love you!!!! 

xoxoxo

November 18, 2013

Ahhhhhh, I'm so sad I missed Chubba receiving the priesthood. I'm so proud of ya bud!!!! and freakin Rem is 16!?!? WHAT!?!? wow... I'm old.. anyways, glad it was a good weekend for all, even though I wasn't there...

So ya know how the chapel was suppose to be done like a year ago, yeah we got a text saying, once again, that it wont be ready. the 1st of December is when we will finally be in it. And we get to have Juan and Nikol baptized the 30!! we are so exited.

Some other good news. Me and Hermana Quiroz don't have changes until January!!! woot woot! The President let us know that we will not be having changes, cause he wants us to work one transfer together in the new chapel! AND we get to skype for christmas!!! so we will figure that out when the time comes. :)

funny story... So we wanted to go visit Nikol on Tuesday, so we called, and she was like, I'm at my soccer tournament... but the last we heard you didn't have permisson from your dad.... yeah, well me and my mom packed our bags and left right after he left for work, he is really upset, he called the police and wants to take away my moms residency.... oh can we talk to your mom? and she said, IM SO SICK AND TIRED OF HIM TELLING US WHAT WE CAN AND CANT DO; I HATE MAKING HIS SOUP ON SUNDAY; HES THE ONE THAT KEEPS ME FROM GOING TO CHURCH. hahahaha shes got some courage.. but we said, ok just let us know when you get home safe and sounds. they didnt show up until yesterday morning. haha but they are all good. 

We had a multi zone meeting. It was SOOOOOOOO good. It was like 9 hours long, but it was so worth it. President let us know that we don't understand our purpose as a missionary and should repent. and the assistants taught us how to teach more with the spirit, by bearing our testimony more, being firm in the invitations we extend, and to promise blessings. and to teach with the power and authority that we have as representatives of Christ, it was awesome and I felt the spirit so strongly, and the president made a huge promise to us. It's incredible, just in less than a week I can see that promise come to pass. but anyways, we decide to put into accion what we learned, with the people we are teaching, and we were super firm with juan carlos, and if he has the desire and faith to be baptized, he needs to act on his faith and his mom will give him permission... so he wrote a note to her saying that if he doesn't get baptized it will be her fault if he ends up in the streets like his brother. and that he is going to serve a mission, so he needs her permission... we find out Thursday what she says... haha we are praying like cray cray.

And I learned something that I didnt really realize, that when Christ suffered, he suffered for a moment, for me personally, all the hurt, sadness trials and sins I will go through, i felt. just for me, He was in my shoes. and He has been in your shoes, personally. just remember that.

Also, a member of the family of the bishop, he hasn't been to church since he was baptized when he was 8. So we were firm in extending the invite, and promising him blessings, and he hasn't prayed in front of people for a long time, and he said the closing prayer. it was amazing how strong the spirit was. and he told his aunt when we left that he knows we are representatives of Christ and he can feel the love we have, and he wants to change his life around. it was so sweet.

We have these 2 new investigators from a family that we have been teaching, they came to church yesterday and they loved it. they love how organized it is. and the mom is pregnant and she didnt have money to pay for the bus, and we went to her house at 9 in the morning, and she was like we have to leave now so we can get there by 12, walking... we were like, uhhh no we will find help for you to pay for the bus, you are gonna have the baby if we walk. haha but then she introduced us to her neighbor who is having issues with her church right now and she wants to find one that she feels right in, and when we explained how it is, her and her husband were like, yes that sounds wonderful, we will check it out, come visit us more as well. YES. more souls comin to Christ. NBD.oh and Gaby is getting baptized!!! :)

We taught an inactive about forgiveness this week, and watched the mormon message of Chris Williams, where his family died in an accident, and he forgave the kid that caused the accident. its tear jerkin. i love it... anyways, we've always known that she is crazy, but didnt really know why, but she went through so much crap in her childhood, that she can't forgive the people that caused it... she was bawling, she was like, I cant , I cant do it.... but we promised her that if she could take those steps of forgivness, everything will turn out fine... shes strong. and it just made me think, that we need to forgive ourselves as well, and others, because we get no where with those nasty grudges. 

Ok, remember that one time when I said I wasn't funny anymore? I so lied. I am so funny. and the latinos think so too. I can't help it if people love me so much. The family Martinez, love me. they laugh so hard when I'm there. I love it. I'm like, this is my purpose in life.. makin people laugh. hahaha no but really, we were eating birthday dinner for their son, and it was AWFUL. but I tried to be polite and act like I was enjoying it, but no body was, so they thought it was so funny. 

Today we went to like central park, of San Jose, seriously, it has the paddle boats and everything, it was so fun. just chillaxin, and playin on the playground. the latinos think its so crazy to see real black people playing basketball. they're like, THEY'RE HUGE OH MY GOSH!!! ahahahah. 

oh one day, we bought milk just to make hot chocolate during planning, so I was happy and stuff walkin to our house, and the milk slips out of my hands and exploads on the ground.... I made it super dramatic.. haha and these men were like, oh what happened, and they were super worried for me cause I was crying... hahah I just wanted my milk. there is never a boring moment in this companionship. haha I enjoy it thats for sure.

3 nephi 9:13-14

Alma 7

read it. enjoy. and be a better person. 

I'm so glad I made the decision to leave and be a missionary. its hard, but so worth it. I left people I love, but I know my life will be a lot better in the future because of this experience. thank you for the prayers and support. I am soooooo grateful for all of you. I love you all. just remember, when things don't work out the way you want them to, God has something better planned. 

xoxoo

Novembuuuuuurrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr. seriously. I hate that its cold in the Rica

November 11, 2013

hey hey heyyyy

So I'm awful and forgot birthdays this past week... so happy birthday, AMY CHUBBA ANDREA and REM!!! miss and love you all!! and sorry if I forgot anyone else who is getting older.. I sure am cause I forget birthdays.... I'm turning into Nana. hahahah

This week was good. ok, all weeks on the mission are good. But they have some let downs. We had some let downs this week. I hate them. So we finally talked to the dad of Juan Carlos. And he was like, no I'm not giving him permission to be baptized until the mom, thats in Nicaragua, does. Which won't happen for awhile unless she has a change of heart... OK DAD...  that's so awful to crush your childs biggest desire in his life right now. His dad is a less active, so it makes sense... But we tried everything this week with Juan Carlos, like wanting to talk to his mom, or to send the missionaries over there... and nothing.... he started crying. I hate seeing people cry. Especially over something this big. honestly, I am so angry with his mom and dad, but I can't do anything about it. We are just praying that his mom has a change of heart. 

Another, is, we had this investigator who was super great, and we started teaching her kids as well this week... She calls us the next day after our visit, and was like, my pastor said that if I keep meeting with you, I can't attend his church. so come and get your Book of Mormon. We went to her house and chatted with her. she was like, I know that we get our answers from the Holy Ghost, but my pastor said this... uhhh yeah, they are just being paid to attend his church... its so sad. They were all super great, and understood it really well. She was like you can still visit, but just not regularlly... and she said that her pastor said that we are just trying to confuse her... its frusterating... but we just gotta keep goin. I just share my testimony and hope that they'll realize the right thing.

We get to enter the chapel this week. finally. And padre Juan is getting baptized the 23. It's set. We are so excited. And so is Nikol. She shared her testimony yesterday in primary, and she has the testimony of like the prophet, or something like that. but its super strong. The only problem with her, is her mom, her mom is inactive as well and always has to have an excuse not to go to church, but we hammer on her, like dude, your childs salvation is on your head. Get to church. So she's been going. haha I've learned that you've just gotta be straight forward with the people here cause if not, no body knows what to do. 

We found an old investigator that was dropped, and she's a girlfriend of a member. So we went and visited her, and she was like, I read the Book of Mormon and don't understand it, and I read the bible but don't understand it as well, but then my boyfriend told me to pray before, and so I tried it, and I understood everything, and even found answers to the things I was looking for. We were like YES SHE IS GOLDEN AND SO READY... but she's never gone to the church meetings before, so we were like, we will come and pick you up. and she was like good, cause my grandson wants to go too, he's been begging me every Sunday to go to church, so I guess we will go. She said she loved every minute of it. And she said it's so different, and she loves the reverence that we have. She wants to continue going. Her grandson LOVES primary, he was like, I don't want to leave. haha I hope she keeps progressing. The only problem is, is that she lives with the member.. he's inactive, and I guess doesn't really understand the law of chastity... we will keep workin on that. haha

Pday today, we went to the kids museum. I was stoked. We wore pants and everything. We got there... AND IT WAS CLOSED. WHAT THE CRAP!! who closes a kids museum for the day!?!? there are kids out there!! I was so bummed. But we went and looked at art, and roamed around San Jose. It was fun. We went with some Hermanas from the zone. We found this sick store for the tourist. I'm goin there before I leave to buy crap, or we are comingg back pronto to buy stuff. It's awesome. It has everything a tourist would want!

Nikol asked a really funny question.. do the chinese think that God is chinese? and is he like chinese in the photos that they have of him?? hahaha but seriously, isn't that a good question?? think about it... cause a lot of people here think that God is brown... soo I dunno. I know He is white... and has red hair. Made in the image of Him, am I right or am I right?? hahaha

I just want everybody to know, that tithing, is SOOOOOOOOO important. so pay it. And just remember the promise God has made to us if we do. Malachai 3:10. yeah I dont know the books in the bible in English. sorry.. but seriously, everybody passes through those hard times, and barely have enough to get by, but you will be blessed if you pay that tithing, that I know you have. 

 Don't worry about me missing the christmas music, we have been listening to it, and singing it in lessons since about September. I'm doin just fine ;) but one thing I miss like crazy is those seasons we've got in good ol Idaho. here, its just sun, rain... and rain... and more rain.... I'm glad I'll be home intime to play in the snow next year!

My comp hates peanut butter. its the saddest thing ever. but I was putting my peanut butter in the bowl to eat my chocolate cereal, cause its the best, and she flipped. She was like ew that's so gross, what are you doing. eww I'm gonna throw up. hahahah I was like, live a little and try it... she can't even handle the smell. My heart breaks for her. haha a

Anyways, read a little Richard G Scott in the 2013 May ensign about peace at home. It's awesome.

and read John 16:33

D&C 58:2-4. I love this scripture. Jakey shared it with me in July but its absolutely amazing. thanks Jakey!!!

as well as 2 Tim 4:7. its so good.

anyways. God speed brotha.

love ya lots.

the Church is true.

Jesus loves you.

Hermana Boer loves you.

xoxoxo

November 4, 2013

Alright y'all. Tuesday. after district meeting, they were like, hey we are going to the office to do divisons with the newbs. I FLIPPED. I was like MY COUSIN IS HERE I GET TO SEE MY COUSIN!!! and they were like, hug him, do it. hahah so I ran up the stairs to the office, and was super chill and was like, heyyy errybody... then all the newbs were eatin their pizza, and all the elders were fighting over Preston, like dude, you gotta come with me. haha and I just went over and hugged him and he was like, what can I really hug you, and I was like OF COURSE, and so we hugged for like 30 seconds. And everyone that didn't know we are cousins they were like, uhhh what's going on.. hahaha then the assistants were like," dude Hermana Boer, your cousin is awesome!" and I was like, "yeah I know". and they were like "you are too". hahahaha. It runs in the family I guess. But yeah, finally I got to see him. It was a good time. Honestly, he is gonna be such a leader here and he's gonna learn the language real quick. Even though he doesn't feel like it right now, he will. I wrote him a nice little note to get him goin :) but yeah anyways, 

We went on divisions with an Hermana that is from here, and serving here, cause she has health problems, but she will do great. She's got a strong testimony. and she's funny so we got along pretty well, all 3 of us. It was a good time. And then I saw Elder Goli and Elder Smoot again that night. Elder Goli went home! Crazy how fast time flies by. He was like I was here when you started your mission, and you are here when I leave. hahaha

Wednesday, we went to do some FHE with some families close to our house. First we went to Armando and Marcela and taught them about prayer and how important it is to do family prayer. The boy was like, "I don't like doing that it's stupid praying with my mom"... I wanted to cry. Because that's like one of the biggest things I miss about home, is always having family prayer. We challenged them to start doing it, and start by singing a hymn to bring in the spirit... I challenge y'all to do that family, especially in the mornings, cause then it gets everybody movin if they are singing. I know how awful family prayer is in the mornings. hahahaha anyways, I hope they do that, cause it's gonna strengthen their testimony, and ability to feel the spirit more often. They are goin pretty inactive, which isn't good, cause they have like zero support system. 

Then we went to the mtz family... they are starting to come back to church, but their son and his wife are super inactive, but we finally got to meet with them, and they are having a baby in June. They are super excited.  We asked them what their goal is as a family, and they want to enter the temple..... ok, think about it, how are you gonna get there? yup, get your butt to church and start reading and praying. We invited them to do that, and the wife said ok, and the son said, ok, when I'm ready... and we were like, well you better get ready, cause you never know when your time is up to prepare yourself.... he is starting to be more comfortable with us, which is really good, so we will keep working with them.

So one day we were waiting for the bus, and we were goin crazy, which is normal for us, anyways, an old lady walked by and my comp was like, CHAO ABUELA!!! hahahahah and the lady was like, ohh adios. I DIED... my comp was like, "I DIDN'T THINK SHE COULD HEAR ME!! oh my gosh how embarrassing!!" and I was like, "no the whole barrio heard you cause you screamed it". hahahaha soooo funny!!! and there's this song that is always playing on any bus we ride in, so I know it pretty well, and yes it's in Spanish. gold star. anyways, she told me one night that I sat up in bed, and started singing it... in my sleep. yup, I've got that song down. I'll have to sing it for yall sometime.

 CAN YOU BELIEVE I HAVE LESS THAN A YEAR!?!?! what the crap... I'm dying everyday... hahah

We went and visited another inactive family this week, and it just happens that her brother is not a member and is an alcoholic. I have the greatest times with them... not. They get me fired up...he walks in and is like, "WHO ARE THESE PRETTY GIRLS"?. "we are the missionaries." "I NEED A MESSAGE LET ME HEAR A MESSAGE": "well what do you need right now"." I NEED TO HEAR SOME WORDS OF GOD". "well ok, you are a son of God and he loves you and knows your needs". "WILL YOU MARRY ME?" "no". "WHY DOESN'T THIS WHITE GIRL TALK, ARE YOU MUTE". "no my comp is talking so I don't wanna be rude and interrupt her. We are gonna listen to her now ok". "OK OK YOU HAVE A REASON"." what impact does God have in your life?" "HEY WHITE GIRL TALK. OH SORRY SORRY I'M STUPID HAHA I'M SO DRUNK RIGHT NOW. GIVE ME SOME WORDS FROM GOD". "no I'm sorry, we will have to do this another time when you are sober. so clean up and we will see you some other time". "NO MARRY ME". "ok goodbye". I was so annoyed.... if you could only imagine....

We had stake conference yesterday... we sat in the very back, so I didn't really pay attention cause I couldn't hear.... all I know is that Hna Wilkinson uses slang. hahaha and Prez Wilkinson was like, she's pretty much Tica now. hahah sooo funny.

Juan Carlos is having problems with his mother. it's kinda frustrating cause she says we pray to Joseph Smith and stuff... so we are sending the missionaries to her, and gonna talk to her over the phone to get her permission. cause he really wanted to be baptized. The chapel still isn't gonna be finished until the 16... so its even more frustrating.... gahhhhhhhhhh

Today we had a zone activity. It was so fun. We played the balloon popping game with the balloon tied around your foot and then whoever won, got to choose somebody to smash and egg over their head. hahahah it was soooo funny. And then we played a sick obstacle game that an elder made up... it's so intense cause you can't touch the elders, obviously, and it got so intense and everybody was screaming. Elder Shwienfurth almost grabbed me and Hna Jack to hide, but he screamed like a little girl "OH MY GOSH I CANT TOUCH YOU. CRAP IM OUT". hahaha then the person counts from 5 to 1 and then 0 and opens his eyes, and when he said zero I hid my face right then, cause if they see your face you are out, hahahahah everybody was dyinggggg. Then we ate some pizza, and then I played basketball with the elders. It was dumb cause none of the sisters would play so then we just left cause they couldn't really guard me. It's ok, I'm over it. it was a fun day. :)

We are gonna make some Honduras food tonight with some inactives from Honduras. yeah that's right future husband,,, family.,,,, or future 45 cats with Tayla, we will be eating, Costa Rican food, Honduranian food, and Nicaraguan food. you are so welcome.

Y'all think about this will ya, what is your goal as a family? And if you don't have one, make one, it will make life better. I promise you.

Read D&C 6:36 and 122:8 and just think about it... I love D&C

and Dad, I just wanna tell you thank you for your example by serving others first before thinking of yourself. You are the best. Everybody read Jacob 2:17-19 and you will be like, yup that's Shawn. Not to be prideful or anything, but I have THE BEST DAD IN THE WORLD. don't be mad. Get glad and look for the good in people, and serve them and don't be selfish.

 Just to let everybody know. Moroni 8:3 I am praying for you. everyday. and I love you all.

xoxoxo

Pura Vida.

Joce

October 28, 2013

AHHHHHHHHHH PRESTON GETS HERE TODAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'M SO STOKED!!! even though I'm not sure if I will see him before he gets put in an area, but we will make something work.

On Tuesday, they told us, again,  that we don't have transferrs.. I hope they weren't lying, cause we have 3 BAPTISMS for the 9 of November. I'm soooo stoked. They announced it in church yesterday, AND we enter our new chapel the 10. woot woot.

Happy halloweenie this week. day of dead, whatever ya wanna call it.

 Ok story time..... Wednesday at like 1 in the morning I woke up with huge stomach pains, and threw up for 20 mins straight, talk about bulimic. anyways, in the morning I was like, hey compa, I'm like kinda dying, so sorry. and she was like you need to rest, and I was like, no lets go, I'm on fire. haha so we left.... after lunch, which I was stupid enough to eat, I threw it all up. delish. and then we went to teach a lesson.... yeah I was like, so I don't wanna throw up in the Book of Mormon so can I use your bathroom... yeah, after that we called the nurse and she was like, take this this and this. and drink lots of water.. and I was drinking lots of water but couldn't keep it down, so that was nice, so she said, go to bed before you drop over dead... I slept for almost 24 hours straight... minus the times I woke up to throw up... NEVER IN MY LIFE HAVE I THROWN UP SO MUCH... gross I know. sorry, not sorry... Thursday I woke up and ate a piece of bread and drank some water, and was like, yup lets go, so we left again, after lunch, which was soup, I threw it up. But I'm alot better now, and everybody in the world was calling and asking if I was still alive.... funny thing is, Elder Taylor is going through what I went through now. hahahah sucker.

One day, we went to the convinient store, and I asked if he had eggs..... which is saying, hey do you have balls... my comp and him bust up laughing and he was like yes of course... and I was like, crapppppp WHAT DID I SAYYYYYYYYY..... then my comp told me after, so as you can tell, I'm STILL working on my spanish... hahahahahahah hope y'all enjoy that....

We had divisons with the Hermanas in Tres Rios again. I was with Hermana Salas, again. which I am totally okay with, she is super great. Anyways, she didn't really have much to say, only that the president, assistants, zone leaders, and district leaders are pleased with all the work we are doing, and to keep it up... we are hoping it stays that way for a while. Not to be prideful or anything, butttttttttt, I'm pretty happy as well. haha

Soooo we were teaching Juan Carlos, and he asked us, "if I know that I'm suppose to get baptized, but don't, what happens?" uhhh yeah... we let him know straight up what happens... but he accepted a date, once again for the 9th. Which is the same day the dad of the bishop gets baptized!!! It's a day of baptisms for his family.... WOOSHH!!! and they don't have any doubts now, which is great, cause we were scared there for a minute.... but they decided to annouce it at a birthday party in their house with THE WHOLE family there... people were crying, cause it took Padre Juan 14 years to actually have the desire.

So we had 5 investigators at church yesterday. That's the most that anybody in the zone had this week. It was a little tough, but we did divisions with members and got everybody rounded up and went to church. The bishop taught the class for them, and it was about faith... remember that email I sent about the young women in our ward who was dumb to pray for trials, and got them? yeahhhhh, the bishop said that when you pray for patience, you are actually praying for something that you will learn to develop patience.... I AM SO DUMB. I AM NEVER PRAYING FOR PATIENCE AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!!! It's like, hey Padre Celestial, give me patience, and he is like okay Hermana Boer, here is a triall for ya. and I'm like. CRAP. I'm learning. BUT I also read in the Liahona, that trials are nessessary for our salvation... sooo I'm kinda wishy washey about it right now. hahahahaha but he then asked a question about how many animals Moses took on the arc when the flood came... and everybody was like, 2 of every kind. and I was dying.... cause it wasn't Moses, it was Noah. hahahahaha. he was like, yeah have faith, amen. haha

Today, we went to Elkis house again to eat, it's like the hangout place for the missionaries. I'm cool with that... we had a lot of fun,,, we just chilled, and this Columbian thinks its cool that I can give shoulder rides. so I did that a couple times to her, cause she weighs like 60 pounds, then threw her down on the couch. haha she thinks it is the funniest thing... I'm losing my strength big time, now my back hurts. hahah

 I don't know if I ever mentioned this, but how cool would it be to have the scriptures of the prophet.... just keep that in mind... or ask grandpa Trimmer for me... ;) hahaha

Ok, I LOVE this talk by Elder Holland... I read it almost every other day at night... its called Justice and Mercy of God. HOLY CRAP. it's so amazing. I can't even tell ya... just read it, and think about it. we aren't perfect, and sin a lot... but that's why we are here. to repent and become like Christ. and how merciful is God.... wow...

Here are some nice scriptures to read and think about as well.... Luke 14:12-24 and Matthew 5:38-48. I love these scriptures, and all the parabols of Christ, in the bible. Do what you know you are suppose to do. Serve others and love others.

If you are wanting more spiritual stuff in my emails, ask me. but I try to keep those on the down low, cause they are spiritual. So if ya want a personal one, that will make your day better, I'm okay with that.

ps. I'm not as funny as I once was... its sad...

anyways... love ya alll.

hope ya edit this. hahahaha

xoxoxooxoxo HERMANA BOERRRRSH.

October 21, 2013

Sooo I'd just have to say I'm kicking myself in the face for NEVER learning to play the piano.... it's awful when there isn't a piano player in Sacrament meeting and everybody looks at me like I know how to play or something, and I'm like, uhhh yeah, you're right I'm the only gringa mormon that doesn't know how to play the piano… 

Something real sweet happened this week. Elder Amado, our general authority of the area came and spoke to us. He is SO FUNNY  and when he first came in he wanted to shake all of our hands and asked us where we are from and how long we have been in the mish. So when it was my turn I told him, "I'm from Boise", and he was like, "ohh I love boise it's so pretty!" and I was like "I know right!" And then I told him I had 6 months in the mish and he was like, "your spanish is really good!" and I said, "ohhh well thank you".. haha then I told Hermana Wilkinson and she was like, "he doesn't compliment just anyone, you know. so you should feel special". I did. He talked to us so much on how to feel the spirit and how to be better missionaries than we already are. he is super proud of us and our hard work.

So before he came I was sitting, talking to the elders, and I look to the door way, and guess who was there.... JACOB SMOOT from SVU!!! I freakkkeddd! he did too, I was like JACOB, and he was like, JOCE, and we were like, uhhhhh first name basis, of course. hahaha ahhh it was a fun little reunion. he is doing super great, and only has 9 months left!! We talked about all the good times at SVU. We were dying haha

We had a lesson with a member, with one of her references... I hate working with returned missionaries from like 50 years ago.... first of all, the lady can't remember if she was baptized or not in the church about 14 years ago, and the member said she has a baptism date and everything. Yeah no lady, sorry, you don't have the authority and power to even think about that. sorry not sorry. I was like, uhhh no, that is up to the Lord. and us, the missionaries. the representatives of Jesus Christ who were set apart to do his work in this country. We will let ya know what the big man says. gosh dang, I'm still working on my patience... if ya can't tell...

I still have pet peeves... I don't think that is ever going to change,,, cause I still wanna slap people across the face when they talk with their mouth full... Christlike attributes...

Speaking of those, in Genesis chapter 45 verses 5 and 7, it talks about Joseph, and how he forgives his brothers. He is a pretty cool guy I guess. The bible is sweet, I didn't really realize that until I have had comps that know the bible like the back of their hand cause that's what they grew up doing, was learning from the bible in their other church. But the Book of Mormon, it's the truth. I know that for a fact.

So we had weekly planning with the zone leaders, cause the president asked them to do it with all their missionaries to give them feedback. They help us out so much, it's awesome. but we had to sing like 7000 times to bring the spirit back. I'm not the only one who hates weekly planning. hahah but we gotta do it...

ANGIE GOT BAPTIZED!!!!  She speaks english too.  I gave her my blog address, and so she's probably like, wow she talks about me a lot. hahaha but really, it was a great experience. not a whole lot of support from the ward, but that is no surprise. It is was awesome. and she was super happy, and now enjoying the companionship of the Holy Ghost. So that's good. I'm always worried that they won't show up to get confirmed after they are baptized, but shes golden, so it went well.

We had a family home evening with this family, and I'm pretty sure the mom is super anti American. Her son wants to live in the USA and she's always bashing on it in front of me. And the bad thing is, she watches the news about it. You can't even trust the news in the states! I'm like okkkk now we are going to sing a hymn... while I'm like steaming with anger. haha I let it go quick though, so that was good.

We went to primary, again. I kinda enjoy it, but then once the kids get on my nerves, I'm like, good thing its only for another 10 mins... haha nahh I love it. but we did a mini MTC experience, they were so cute with their missionary badges, in their companionship, doin work. Future missionaries, woot woot.

There's this little kid who HATES the female gender. its sooooo funny. I'm always trying to talk to him and he's like, "I said don't talk to me. don't look at me." and he always runs away when we come to his house. but yesterday we were eating dinner at his house, and he had popcorn and gave me one piece and was like "thats all, no more".... but then,,, I started playing with a balloon, and he wanted to play with me!!! so we played with a balloon for like 20 mins, and after I asked him for a hug, and he almost gave me one, then was like, "what, no way!" haha and his mom asked if I was his friend, and he was like, "no, I will only play with her, but she is not my friend". hahahah

I get some of my words mixed up sometimes and my comp thinks its the funniest thing, especially when I say bad words that I didn't even know were bad... but don't worry, I'm still working on the lanugage...my comp helps me soooooooo much.

Today we went to the dentist, cause my comp broke her tooth about 7 weeks ago... haha but we made a little pit stop in an art gallery.. I can spend hours in those. seriously... it was fun.

well, God is Good! 

I love being a missionary! 

peace and blessings y'all.
be good. choose the right.

love you all

love 

Joce.
hermana Boer

xoxoxoxo

October 14,2014 

heyyy yalllll

Costa Rica is the bomb. and its kinda cold.... but when I get home next winter I'll be like, yeah Costa Rica isn't cold.

I can't believe like a year ago I was like, I'm gonna go on a mission, and dad was like why are you crying, and I was like, I'm not sad! hahaha and then everything worked out, and now I'm here speaking a different language. its pretty cool I guess. 

Just to let everyone know, that they eat sour cream here like its candy. and it's kinda good... not gonna lie. It's like, let's eat sour cream and bread for a snack. and then I think, I WOULD NEVER EAT THIS AT HOME. what am I doing. I'm changing. It's weird... I actually eat food I have never liked.

So in our zone, they love to blame everything on me. like in our meeting there were some people not doing the things we were suppose to during our practices, and I was one of them, and they were like BOERRRRR. after they explained what we are suppose to do. hahaha and then they mess around like all the time and somebody gets mad at them and they're like BOERRRRR. they do it cause they know I can take a joke. hahaha I'm used to it.

So Juan Carlos has been doubting alot about getting baptized, and he told us a story about when he prayed personally and he felt something that he has never felt before when he asked if he should get baptized. THE SPIRIT. GUYS IT WAS THE SPIRIT. and he was still like I dunno. So we said a prayer right there with everyone and he again asked if this is what he should do, and I can't explain how strong the spirit was in that moment. and even after, everyone was silent for like 3 minutes after. And he was crying and everybody and their dog was crying. It was beautiful to feel the spirit so strongly. Annnnd he's still not gettin baptized. yet. he said he will but doesn't know when... so thats dumb

We are visiting this inactive who is having TONS of problems with his wife... they are seperated but not divorced and he's super loyal... but her.. not so much and he doesn't know what to do. and he doesn't believe in God anymore and its just a huge mess. but we told him that he knows what he needs to do, and that God is always there for him and ready to listen and help him when he is ready. He was crying, and is gonna start coming to church with us. THE SPIRIT GUYS ITS THE SPIRIT.

Sooo I ate sugar cane. Like straight up cane of sugar. NOT KIDDING I cut the plant of sugar cane, and ate it. It's suppose to be good for your teeth. and I was like, yeah right its all in your heads people, but after, my teeth felt nice. hahaha

GUYS WE ARE GETTIN CELLPHONES. COSTA RICA MISSION GETS CELL PHONES THIS WEEK. that's what's up. I'm sick of paying a million dollars for a stupid house phone.

We had another open house for the missionary work at the stake center.... 5 people showed up. Hna Quiroz was FULL of sass, and we missed our appointment with Angie. that's how I feel about dumb activities. The elders didn't like it as well, so never again.

There is this recent convert who was baptized in a different area, but lives in our area, so we decided to visit him. He has such a strong testimony and did baptisms for the dead the other day, and he was like, the temple is soooo cool. hahaha

We went to ward choir yesterday and Silvia was there... the crazy lady cook. And she said we couldn't sing because we sing through our noses..... you should hear her sing. I sound like freakin Beyonce compared to her. thanks.

There is this youth in our ward, and she bore her testimony, she said after conference she asked God for trials... she had a week of trials. Seriously, she ended up in the hospital. and I was like, I'm not that dumb to ask God for trials, he already gives them to me. but it was so sweet, cause before, she was just a little snob. and now she's super chill and changed so much from those experiences that she had. But God really does listen and answer your prayers. More than you know and we can learn from all our experiences and grow spiritually from them like she did.

I wish I could hear all your testimonies while I'm out here. I'm sure it's like, boo hoo Joce is gone. hahahaah jk jk

So yesterday we visited David, he is an inactive, and his mom is SUPER catholic. and we taught them about faith, suprise there right. haha but we asked them how we can strengthen our faith and she was like it's different cause I'm catholic, and we were like no, we all worship the same God. there is only one, so our faith in God can be strengthened the same, no matter what religion we are. It's so true. It doesn't matter what religion we are, just as long as we have our lives centered on Christ, the right way. Because sometimes people don't understand....

We also visited Angie, with Glenda, the relief society president. it was SO GOOD. We finished with the plan of salvation... that lesson gets me everytime. and it got Angie real good, she bore her testimony about what she learned, and it was so sweet. she knows that families can be together forever, and that we can apply the atonement in our lives EVERYDAY. no matter what. She's getting baptized on Saturday. First baptism in Concepcion in 1 year. woot woot.

Oh a little experience yesterday... so we had 0 money to ride buses and get to where we needed to go, so while we were running from one appointment to the next, we were both screaming prayers in our heads like, we need a miracle right now or we will never get to these appointments in time. Because they were like 15 mins from where we were.... and right when I was like, please Heavenly Father, we need help. a car pulled up and it was the elders quorm president with his family and he lives across the street from where we needed to go. and he was like ok, get in, lets go. I almost cried. and his kids told me a joke in english." is your name google? Because you got all the things I'm looking for". hahahahaha yes.

Read Luke 10 verses 25 through 37. Be the good samaritin this week. spell check please. 

I miss and love you all. So much. I say it everyweek, but its true. I couldn't have been more blessed.

xoxoxoxox

your favorite missionary... ok favorite redhead missionary.

Hermana Boer.

forgot Preston is out now. hahaha