We did it!

Well we made it. Much of it we were already doing... but it was definitely hard at times. We didn't watch the TV once, I only got on the internet when necessary, no texting, in bed by 10:30, mostly awake by 6:30, we listened to lots of primary music throughout the week... All in all it was very successful.

Things I learned:
The internet and cell phones are sure nice and convenient. They help life... BUT can also hinder it! There are some wonderful connections made, resources found, and ideas shared but too much time here is simply a waste of time!

I have a great companion! For those of you who really know Nic, know that he loves sports. And what was on this week? NBA playoffs! But the TV was not on! When my mom heard this she said, "Wow, you have a good companion!" Yes, I do! Nic was a great support. I loved not having the TV on. Hannah missed it a few days and I'd simply reminder her we were being like missionaries... she was a champ as well. I missed watching Studio 5 while folding laundry. But we all go to interact a little more and have less outside noise in our home. It was wonderful!

I love sleep. A few days a week I wake up early for aerobics, the other days I sleep in as long as possible; however, I need to walk up a bit earlier to get my scripture reading in before it gets too crazy.

All these extra things really are noise from the outside world, distracting us from what is really important and clouding our minds so we cannot as easily feel the Spirit!

Now on to the youth:
Last night we met, every one was in Sunday dress. They were presented with missionary name tags... then we sent them off... They went as districts into a members home who served them an "authentic" dinner from where the youth were called to serve. Then the youth shared a lesson (the restoration lesson from PMG). An hour later we gathered once again at the church and had a testimony meeting. At times it was hilarious, at times I was brought to tears, but all of the time I sat with a smile on my face and the Spirit filling my soul. It was hard for the youth. It was challenging. But they grew. The goal was that they would sacrifice, that they would feel the Spirit, that they would learn and grow. I think the goal was accomplish.

I am grateful for missionary week... missionary month!