Friday, December 24, 2010





A different week is good but we are heading for great! The update OCTOBER 18








Hi Everyone.

While it's finally cooling off up here and the sun is deceiving because while it may be out it's still. Cold but am grateful there is still light. Now that it is getting darker earlier everyone asks why we are out so late. I'll look at my watch and say it's only 7:30. It is truly interesting how are relate safety with light.


This last week was different because Sister Vathauer went to training in Spokane during the day and Sister Hirata and I took on all of Cheney. It was amazing to see her bear her testimony so simply and yet not have full comprehension or understanding of the English language. We saw some amazing miracles as we went tracting on Tuesday. We meet Ashley. She was willing to chat with us on the door but then I knew what to ask her and soon she had a question of the soul. - What is my purpose here on earth? It was amazing how strong the Spirit came as we told her that she is a daughter of God. the look in her eyes as we explained this truth to her and where she came from. Tears came as the Spirit bore witness to her of the truth she was learning. She wasn't ready for learning more but I was taken back as the words came out of my mouth when you are ready all the questions you have we can answer. She just smiled and we did too as we walked back to campus. These little moments of faith make it worthwhile.


Another moment with Sister Hirata was meeting a young woman in her late 20's from Europe who was Jewish! We had an interesting interaction and I bore my testimony to her about how there is a living prophet today. Also how direct I was in telling her how the Messiah is Jesus Christ. It was incredible. She said she was impressed to meet someone who was bold enough to link them all together. I feel the more I learn and grow the more missionary success moments we have. Bold enough to open our mouths and the Holy Ghost gives us the words to touch the individual person.


On Friday was the day of live and learn with kids. At with the girls I gave them balloons. Big mistake before the lesson, while even before it started. Zoey missed the glass of almond milk just to come back hit the table launching the glass into the air and milk going everywhere. The night before it was me at the RS meeting dinner. It was an easy clean up. I became inspired of how to clam the girls down to watch a these foam things expand in water but as we started reading from the Book of Mormon they became quiet and listened. It was amazing. Then Eve knelt for closing prayer. We learn so simply and the Spirit teaches we just have to be the examples. Then I meet Jonathan who has picked up some of his dad's feelings for the Church. He gave me a lot of attitude which his sisters responded to. It was an interesting interaction and by the time we left I was covered in some type of play flour. Later Friday evening on our way out to Sprague, Sister Vathauer and I got into a family in Tyler we have been trying to contact since I got here. Her little boy was less than happy to have us there because the Monster vs. Alien movie was stopped. But by the time we left he and his twin sister hugged our legs. It was while worth it.


Sunday we saw a miracle. Luke came to church. We thought he was a member in the YSA ward. Nope. Turns out he came because the Spirit prompted him to come. We have an appointment with him tomorrow evening after zone conference.

Bob had a roller coaster of a week. He became overwhelmed by everything but we were able to discern his needs. What was even more great was that he identified that the Spirit was discerning his needs through us. We were able to see him stick through his own dilemma and he stuck to faith. As we taught about the living prophet all these scriptures came to me about faith. The Spirit was so strong. There was this assurance there that you knew the Lord was working there. Please keep him in your prayers as he prepares to be baptized this Saturday. I am so impressed at his character to do this because he knows and for himself. We are excited for him. This week we'll be focusing on Bob and helping him to be ready for his big day. He is literally starting a new life and even though he knows a enough we'll still be there to support and sustain his conversion afterward. I love this gospel.


Thank you to all of you for your love and support. I know that your prayers are answered. I hope all is well. Keep praying for ways to help the missionary efforts of where you are. It's rewarding and you'll be able to feel the joy of the gospel as you share what is most precious to you.


Love always and forever

Sister Peck

Weekly Update- Time flies by when you are having fun October 11

Hi Everyone!


So Bob is on date for October 23rd. He's decided he no longer needs to read the whole Book of Mormon to be baptized. Which is good because 16-19 pages a day is a lot to process. Anna and Bob remind me a lot of Pappy and Gramee. Bob says things to get us going and Anna just shakes her head. I get a good laugh when Sister V gets giggling from the awkward statements. I love it. My highlight of the week I guess there were 3- Bob attended someone's baptism - Anna bears strong testimony - And 2 of the roommates come to church.

Bob thought we weren't coming to the baptism when we walked in 5 minutes after three. Oops. We were striving. That's my big emphasis right now we strive not try. Bob has taken to the statement. But there were their girls. The highlight was at the end when Bob went and introduced himself and congratulated the young mother and announced to her he was getting baptized on the 23rd. I heard his conviction and I just beamed. He's doing it for him. He testified of the Sister missionaries persistence compared to the Elders and how there is a difference of duty and love in one of his lessons this week. These moments making tracting in the rain worth it. Sunday Anna hesitated a couple of times before taking the courage to go and bear her testimony so that Bob could hear it. She spoke of answered prayers. It was beautiful and several members of the congreation were in tears of joy. When I asked Bob what he thought he said how her was proud of her and then said and She didn't even use a whole box of tissues. =)

The roommates- We just keep going back and we did a lesson on faith with a balloon, salt and pepper and some good old static electricity. We get move involvement and commitment from them when we make it visual. It was great! They both kept their invitation to read and came to Church. The highlight of Church was we showed up at the same time and they had hoped to sit in the hallway on the couch. No such luck. I was using my non-verbals to get them a seat by someone they knew and it took bring in another chair and me hoovering over the spot in the back row but it all worked out. We have to take the initiative or no one will.

I am now the primary driver. Watch out Cheney is what most of you are thinking but I am doing good and am surprised at how well I know the area. We went out to farm land for dinner one evening and I am still not use to be responsible for layers. When we left I was creeping out to the main road its so dark. Well the good Brother took after us and finally startled us as we hit the main road by yelling stop and hitting the trunk of the car. I wasn't as startled but Sister V almost had a heart attack. We are still laughing about it.

It's finally cooling off here and I am layering up. We attended the ward's Harvest Feast. It was a blast. A couple people we invited actually came!

This next week will be fun to report as Sister V will spend a majority of her time in Spokane for a training and I will be here with Sister H from temple Square. =)

I know that this is the Lords work. I see the change it can bring into people's lives as they live it percepts. It is truly a humbling experience. Hope you are all having missionary moments. Love you all bunches. Thank you for your support and love.

Love always and forever

Sister Peck

Monday, October 4, 2010

The Work Continues= October 4, 2010

Hi Everyone!
I really feel that my pictures explain this week better than I can write it so I'll be sending those. =)

This last week along with many others here, Sister Vathauer got a really bad cold/flu bug. It my faith with prayers and Gramee's training I stayed healthy. The weather is deciding what it wants to be but that's ok. We got back in contact with the roommates and hope all will continue to progress. We spent the time we did have going hard to contact as many people as possible. With Campus contacting you just have to do it. It so nerve racking approaching people but somewhere I find the courage and just start talking to the students here. It is so rewarding to feel the Spirit inspire you with things I could never come up with on my own. One morning analogy after analogy kept coming to mind and I would share them. One I liked was how the 3 kingdoms of glory is like vanilla ice-cream. So will be happy and content just with vanilla but if we want more then we can have it and knowing that I can have the Sunday really gives me the incentive to do what I need to do for it.

One other cool experience. We were able to go and do the potato harvest at the Ames farm. What an amazing this to see and do the work of the harvest. I was the one up rooting them and Sister Vathauer went collecting them. That's what missionary work is. Some plant, some water, others up root and then there are those who collect and enjoy the dinner provided with the investment you've made. It's all part of the harvest. =)

Conference was amazing. I'd love to hear what stood out to you. I hope you are all having a great start to a new week.

Love sister peck

What a roller-a-coaster- September 27

Hi Everyone!
This past week where to start. I know the field trip we took to the Dentist. Yup I got to take another companion to a doctor’s office. I had # 16 break and there was an old mission president in Deer Park who offered to fix it for me. What a relief. When we got there Brandi was my dental assistant and was so kind and patient with me. I have never enjoyed the Dentist however she became a great friend over the next two hours. The Dr. Baites wished my wisdom teeth had been removed before my mission. =) Somehow I had escape but the day had caught up to me. He decided that it was in my best interest to pull the tooth. Here's the missionary moment. Brandi is not a member. At first she was a little hesitant about me being a Sister Missionary and kept calling me by my first name which is so weird by the way. We quickly became friends. I was able to ask Dr. Baites for a blessing which was a great comfort to me. It was surprising to her that I would just ask. Then when my tooth would not come out the Dr. left the room and as I was inhaling gas Brandi and I felt the Spirit as we discussed her marriage and only being married once and I expressed this same desire and talked about the temple. She told me I made her day and was glad I broke my tooth so I was there on Tuesday. We have the opportunity to share the gospel where ever we are.
The next few days I was in pain and Sister Vathauer did an amazing job of being patient with me. The times were I wasn't sick (leaving out the details) we were able to see miracles. All week I had been praying to be the answer to someone’s prayers everyday and that both parties would recognize the answer to the prayer. It came that first night with 7 year old Thomas who prayed after hearing we would not be able to make dinner at their home that we would still be able to come. Unbeknown to me I felt strongly impressed we should still go. The smile on this little boys face when we walked into their home was priceless. The Lord answers prayers and he has given me the strength to get with the program despite the physical limitations I experienced this last week. When we went out to Sprague this last Friday George offered up an addendum to my opening prayer that a miracle would happen in my mouth that the pain would leave because I deserved it as he put it. It was like one of those magic moments in the movies. It was gone. There is still some discomfort but no pain and no pain medications were needed. His faith astounded me. Prayers are answered.
Now the exciting news. Grace was baptized! On Sept. 11!!!! Jenn sent me a cute update which included this little tid bit of information. Second exciting information- Bob is on date to be baptized on October 23. He accepted my invitation on the condition that God and him find an agreement. So please include him in your prayers and fasting that he receives his answer. Anna his sweet wife had tears come to her eyes as he accepted and her jaw open. She has waited and prayed for that day and the days to come for a long time. She is waiting for him to go to the temple. I felt so excited that I could have launched into outer space. On Sunday they were both at Church. Bob cleans up really nice. I gave them the biggest embrace- Anna a hug and Bob a handshake. I love them. It what motivated him to commit. I found in our supply box a large print copy of the Book of Mormon and the strongest impression came that it was his. The other sisters had ordered it but their dear old lady had passed away and we have been driving with it in the trunk of the car for the past few weeks. Miracles happen. He was so excited to have a copy he could hold and see. More to come.
If you didn't watch RS Broadcast get online. What an amazing experience to hear from the prophet! This quote has struck with me, "Charity is Love in Action." That is w
hat this work is. Love motivates us to change like no other factor. I know this is God's work to bring happiness to the lives of His children. Hope you are all finding ways to share your testimonies with others.
Love you all more than you know and your love and encouragement keeps me going.
Love always
Sister Peck

It's fall and school is back in!!!- September 20

Hi Everyone!
Thank you so much for the letters I have received this month! It really lifts my heart when I can feel your love and support through written words on a page.
So we survived transfers. Sister Vathauer and I will be serving here in Cheney for another 6 fantastic weeks! We have tons of laughs as we work alongside each other. We are focusing on finding people to teach and hopefully will be able to coordinate something with the YSA mission leader on campus. It was so exciting despite the new cold (alright cool) temperatures to see the leaves changing colors and falling and students arriving back to campus for another school year. I hope BYUH is off to a great start.
This last week in my zone is called Miracle week. It is a morale booster for the 6th week rut. It was amazing because we actually called in to be a part of the miracle hot-line phone call this past Wednesday. Each Day has miracles to make up the miracle week, shocked I know but it was amazing to see. We were out campus contacting and then it began to rain we found these two guys taking refuge under a tree. They had nowhere to run as the down fall increased. It just made me smile. As the sun came out they blotted but we felt that we had been in the right place at the right time. Now for what we called in for - one of the roommates prayed! In our lesson that went much smoother this time, B was invited to pray at the end. He said he would and when we got to the end, he nor the others except Sister Vathauer and I remembered. I finally said to him just read the prayer off the page and we'll all close our eyes. By the end the Spirit was so sweet as this young man offered up gratitude for us coming to teach him and his roommates and for his life. It was beautiful, sincere and humble. He knew who he was addressing and it was if it were the only the two of them and we just got to witness. His one roommate commented, Man were you free lancing? It was a truly memorable moment.
I lost my sticky with my notes of what I was going to share. Oops.
One other miracle from this last week- Kina. We went back to do service in her yard. It looked amazing. I cleaned out her flowerbed of weeds and grass and I could see the fruits of my labor. We she got home she was overwhelmed with gratitude and shocked at all we were able to accomplish in 2 hours with the other set of Sisters and a member of the ward. She bought us lunch. I was privileged to say the blessing on the food and as I did Kina began to cry. It was one of those moments you could feel the Spirit touching her heart. As we serve each other your love grows. It's one of these amazing concepts. We shared more about the importance of the family. She's going to hear more about the gospel from the other set of Sisters who cover where she lives.
Blessings I've seen for me - Sister Perrin's made me bread I can eat. It is amazing. I got to eat biscuits with fresh honey out of the backyard at the Davis home. The members here are amazing and have the biggest hearts. It's amazing to labor here in Cheney. I getting to know more about what I believe as I share my testimony with others. It’s that whatever you lose, you'll gain. I feel myself being stretched and my character becoming stronger as I serve the God I love.
I hope you are all doing well and sharing the gospel with those around you.
Love you bunches.
Love Your
Sister Peck

Weekly Update- September 13

Hey Everyone!
This last week has been one of raising the bar. The standard of excellence was restated and we have work diligently to make it. There is always for growth. I am loving the people I am serving amongst. The ward members here are really opening up. We have a plan to work with part member families. It always adds a little variety especially when they invite you over for dinner. Some are more welcoming than others but my experiences in Hawaii have really come in handy. It helps me relate with people through generation gaps and gives us something in common to discuss and I can bear my witness of BYUH and the PCC and the temple and how it truly is a blessed place because of the spirit of Aloha there with the Spirit of the Lord.

Last week two of our appointments tried to save our souls. One man had tears in his eyes as he tired to convey his concern. I felt the Spirit so strong as I bore my testimony. You can not walk away having felt the Spirit and not be edified. My testimony is strengthened everyday as I share it. I am realizing why my reception here is better- I just love the people and those I am hesitant about I just pray for and look for ways to show charity.

This last week was a week for Service. We are helping community members- we worked at the Cheney Food Bank. We talk with the elderly people as we help them load up their cars. It is amazing to see the smiles on their faces as you smile back to their tender eyes. We helped a lady clean a house for a friend who is in a divorce. This sweet lady when meeting us gave us the biggest embraces for helping her prepare for her children to move in. Walls are being taken down one act of love at a time. On Sunday I had the impute privilege to teach Gospel Principles on Service. It was amazing. Just going by the Spirit and being able to understand the importance of love and how Charity becomes who we are as we serve. We also were able on 9-11(National Service Day) to go to Medical Lake and assist in cleaning a grave yard. It was amazing to see the finish project and the amount of work that was able to be completed. I was able to be on the Tom Sawyer project till I set down my paint brush to eat a snack and found a lady who had quickly taken up the task. I then got to scrub old tomb stones with Sister Winterton. She is amazing. It was fun to feel the sense of unity as you work along side one another.

Brother Sampson's talk was what I wanted to write home about. What comes to mind when you think of sacrifice? Probabally not winning. If his talk had a thesis it would have been - Sacrificing is winning! It was this impacting statement. He related it to a pitching dual and bottom of the 9th and how sacrifice bunt and a sacrifice fly can benefit a team for a win and how the bunt does not count against your batting average. We seem to put this negative connotation on the word but in reality those things we give up produce a better outcome- a win. I see how sacrificing my time, energy, love is worth it. Even though I've been sick the last few days my desire to serve overrides my bodies wanting to give in. I see the strength the Lord gives those who are willing to pay a little in the process for the greater reward of joy. The gospel brings joy. It's precepts and principles shape our character into something more than we could ever do on our own. Share it.
Hoping all is well. Love you all bunches. Thank you to everyone who is making this opportunity avaible for me to be here at this time and place. I know I am here for a purpose and I am striving to make you all proud. Your encouragement through letters, packages and prayers renews my spirits and keeps me going strong.
Love always,
Your Sister Peck

Another Amazing week- oops completed- September 7

Hi Everyone!
Things are happening here. It's fantastic. We had 6 investigators at Church Sunday. That is a big thing around here and could see how the Lord was blessing us for our hard work and for these sweet souls wanting to learn and become more.
This last week I learned a lot about fear and apathy. We encounter so many interesting people but what holds us back from truly sharing the most important thing we have- fear. Ourselves. This week I am doing- because try is not what we do. In a lesson with four roommates when asked to read 2Ne 31- they said I'll try. I just raised my eyebrows and responded on a football team do you try? One young man responded no. It's just like Nike - You just do it. It applies to everything. Missionary work, school, or just plain life. It required us to do.
We are living and learning. 6 wards in Moscow was a task but it's just as hard with 2. Balancing the work between both wards is an interesting dilemma we are facing. The work is here it just using our time to meet all the needs.
There is a family here I have really come to love and have taken an interest in sharing the gospel with. The first time was an interesting encounter, the second we saw an act of faith by the young man offering the prayer, there was hope. Then we received a cancellation and no show but me I had the thought one afternoon while tracting to go over and see how one of the daughters first day of school was. It was on the surface the whole time and I just kept engaging the young man in conversation. I am really impressed with his wisdom for being in this early 20's. He said we could come back. We did and no answer but luckily Sister V heard some noise in the back so we went towards the backyard and he saw us and invited us back to roast marshmallows with him and his other sister. It was like girls camp bearing testimony and addressing concerns of why the children of this part member family had stopped meeting and learning more about the gospel. He asked why we were serving. Each of us bore every unique testimony. Mine was love and we were able to bring some healing and open a window where a door had been closed. It is truly amazing how it all goes with timing and being able to show genuine interest.
This a scripture that has been more meaningful to me the last week as I have left fear and walk more with faith to allow myself to let these people who I serve amongst into my heart as I share something I treasure with them. The gospel message is of great importance to everyone. Find time to fulfill your mission and you'll feel the sweetest joy.
2Nephi 1:15 But behold, the Lord hath redeemed my soul from hell; I have beheld his glory, and I am encircled about eternally in the arms of his love.


Love you all bunches and hope that school is off to a great start. EWU doesn't start for another couple of weeks but winter/fall is here to stay. Everyone loves pointing out how good, meaning a lot of snow fall, we are going to have and how I have never experienced a winter. I am in my own refiners fire and will go and do.

Have a great week and don"t forget to pray.

Love always Sister Peck

In a voice mail, "I know you're always doing things for God.-Which is good." =)- Aug 23

Hi Everyone!
This last week has been amazing! No surprise I am sure but it is truly amazing to see how the Lord works and crosses our paths. There are so many things to share.
My first experience of eating at a member’s home this last week was a great experience. The food was great but I realized I was no longer in the city- literally we were about 5 miles out of our small town and there was a disturbance out front and within 30 sec the good brother was out the front door with his shoot gun. I was in awe that he had such a quick response time. They've had issues with the coyotes here eating the chickens last few weeks.
Now for more of the work. We got one golden self referral this week. He walked into the institute building last Monday and has made a serious effort to know the standard we live. It is amazing. He called us three times to schedule an appointment. He's going places.
We had the honor and the privilege to be instructed by a member of the 70- Elder Craig Christensen. Wow! He said everything we teach should be linked to the atonement. We all felt the strength of his testimony because he applies it to his own life and as missionaries this is where our conversion happens. When we allow the gospel to penetrate own lives. We don't miss the window of opportunity that is being offered to those all around the world. Sister Christensen bore just a strong testimony in 10 minutes about Mosiah 4:2. Look it up and allow the phrase O have mercy take a place in your own prayers. You'll be amazed at the difference in your lives. The atonement it what cures all emotional, physical, and spiritual pain we experience here.
One interesting occurrence is that all four Sister's here dress alike. It's quite ironic because we don't all live together. We got to do some work alongside the other set Saturday night as we tracted some apartments. We were able to catch a footballer player as he was dropped off after practice. He hasn't been to church in a while and I was given a very tender moment that was felt by all 5 us. I thought a trio was a lot but 4 sisters that's intense. In those few moments I was given the words to link the running back and the team to the atonement and church as the huddle. It reminded me of how I was blessed to write and the more I learn the more my gifts are better used to help those I serve amongst develop faith in Jesus Christ. I was grateful in the moment that I knew about football from the McFadden’s or the moment would have slipped by.
If you’re struggling remember to pull out your scriptures and say your prayers and watch how the Lord answers you. Don't give up hope or faith pull through. We meet a lot of RM's who have lost their way. Be true to the Savior. His arms are always extended towards all those who will come unto Him.
Konie thank you so much for the amazing package. I enjoyed the scriptures that were attached to each item. I shared the spoils with the Elders at the meeting with Elder Christensen which put big smiles on their faces. Sister Vathauer was grateful as she is enjoying the many treats. Kendal I enjoyed your letter. Look for correspondence to come via snail mail.

Hope everyone is doing well.
Love always and forever
Sister Peck

Aloha from Cheney- August 16

Aloha!
ok I don't even know where to begin.
Saying goodbye to Moscow. It was sad to leave. One of those bitter sweet moments of saying goodbye to people I have come to love in the last 3 months yet knowing more adventures lay ahead. Transfers are an intense process. It took a whole day to get back in the groove of missionary work. Sister Vathauer, who amazing, and I had to move houses when we got to Cheney. There are now two sets of Sisters in our Area. We cover Cheney 2nd ward and split the YSA ward. We cover not only Cheney but Tyler and Sprague. If you blink you'll miss them. Greatest part of that is...That's right we have a mission car. What a blessing. I have been able to meet some amazing people this last week. I see in their eyes so much pain. We have really been focusing on the atonement with a lot of members who are struggling in their lives right now. It has been amazing to be a part of their journeys. I have had many confirmations this last week that I was sent here for these people at this time. To me it confirms my faith in an all knowing God. This is His work, I just carry it out.
Ok new companion, so I'll give her bio so I don't receive a whole bunch of letters inquiring about her. Sister Vathauer (VAT- Hour) is form south Florida. She lives close to Disney World and I really want to go there after my mission having heard more about how amazing it is. She has her bachelors in Art and Sociology. She is a little older than me so we are at the same maturity level which I am enjoying. Her birthday is November 19. She Loves the Lord. It's great to see her faith put to work. She stops and talks with everyone and loves recounting the many miracles we witness each day. She has taught me a lot about talking to everyone and being able to pray everywhere. I mean it. The doorway, parking lot, road, wherever. It's incredible. What's even more amazing is no one has turned us down to pray with them.
My new District is amazing. Very friendly and connected. I am now in the same district with Elder Fordham from the MTC district. He is still the same character but he has really grown into his calling. It's amazing to witness the change the gospel can have on us when we allow it to.
We had the most amazing service opportunity this week to work at the food bank here in Cheney. It reminded me of the Bishop Store house and how our fasting offerings are used to bless those who have less than we do. What an amazing practice of the Church. The people here are very good about keeping the bank full. It was humbling to help seniors take and load their groceries in
Shout outs
Darcie and Allred Family - I am so happy I received letters from you when I arrived in my new area. I am glad that all is went well on the Mainland. Brother Allred work hard on your book.
Laurel - I loved my letter! I miss you a bunch. Enjoy the rest of the summer. Tell Grandpa to behave. lol. If that is possible and that I pray for his recovery.
Magoo- You really do love me. I am almost finished with my first journal for you. My words of wisdom. =) I love you stay strong.
Still waiting for a picture from Quinn's baptism.
Love you all. This gospel has the power to change your lives if you allow it. What an amazing resource to become something more than we are now. It is all made possible by our Savior Jesus Christ. Have a great week.
Love Sister Peck

Friday, September 17, 2010

Ok Transfer Calls have been made- August 9

Hi Everyone!
I am going to Washington! Cheney, to be more exact. Transfer calls came in last night. It's suppose to be even smaller than here.
This last week has been an adventure. Sister Okamura has brought a breath of fresh air to the work her. She has an incredible faith. She has really cool analogies to relate to the gospel and is so friendly and kind. She has taught me to have a purpose for every hour or a principle of the gospel to share. It works! We found one new investigator and 4 potentials who we can check back on. So exciting. We placed four Book of Mormon's this week. Lamar is receiving a quad this week. He is on fire. This Sunday was the first Sunday he has worn a white shirt to church. He just glows. Abu came to church for the first time Saturday it was amazing. And President Mark Monson gave a perfect talk about covenants and their importance. They truly are important. I never truly understood how impacting the baptismal covenant was till my mission.
So last Wednesday, President Palmer made an impromptu visit here in Moscow. He and Sister Palmer brought Sister Okamura. It was a major blessing and all the insights, talks and letters I recieved this last week emphasized the same scripture Mosiah 4:27. The only way to give is when your full. I really feel charity growing within me. I am sad to leave Moscow but Saturday I had this feeling that I was going to leave, even though everyone was predicting Sister Adams because she had been here for so long. Nope. The work is great here. Said goodbye to a couple of people and I am ok with leaving and excited because I know the work will carry on without me and there are many others I can still have a positive influence for good. I've seen miracles here as I given of myself. I know this God's work because there is no other way it could progress at the speed it does. I've seen how the Book of Mormon strengthens and changes your life as you search its pages from cover to cover. By the way I finished it last week. It's still true. I found things at teach me how not only how to improve my life but those around me. We challenged one family to read it together and I felt prompted to ask for their calendar and I gave them a sheet of strikers to mark for each day they read. The mom got so excited and said I must have spent a lot of time around children. =) I really love these people. Each one where they are in life. Am grateful for this opportunity and all of those who made and are making sacrifices for me to be here.
Love you all bunches
Hope you're having your own missionary moments. If you're not pray for them and then act on them.
God Bless. Another chapter is about to unfold.
Love
Sister Peck

3 weeks till school starts and I've never been so excited- August 3

Hi Everyone!
Moscow is amazing. We've found two new people this last week! That's excited and 3 of our investigators are praying to receive an answer to be baptized.
First exciting news is I will save a ton of money now that nylons are not required for everyday wear! I was finally getting use to them, but I am not complaining. So now its time for the booty nylons. It really makes a difference in 90 degree weather. =)

Second are you ready... we are becoming a trio tomorrow. A SLC temple square Sister is coming up here. She is from Japan. My international experience keeps expanding. We are excited. Especially to learn some street contacting inaction. Their mission focuses on that so it will be neat to see how she approaches people to talk to. I am always willing to learn something new.

We are having great success with the members and the missionary activity encouraging members to do their own missionary efforts in sharing their beliefs with those they know. It is so exciting to hear their success stories.

We got to go to Spokane today to attend the temple. It was my first time in a smaller sized temple. Still amazing. We ran into Elder Fordham. That was a tender mercy and their was a leadership meeting at the stake center so we got to go and see Sister Palmer. I just adore her and her hugs. We got to see President Palmer. That was great too. They just are so on the ball and engaged in the work that any interaction, refocuses you on your purpose.

We are now learning the new curriculum for the MTC. It is amazing. I am really excited for each of the lessons. It's learning the doctronie and being able to express the importance with the Spirit. That's my understanding. =)

We had a major blow this week. Katie has discontinued meeting with us. It came as a real shock. But we know that we taught her and help her faith to grow. On the upsaide we are on a finding mission of finding members who have gone less active. We found two in the same apartment and had no idea. Their roommate is becoming our friend as we keep going back. Maybe he'll want to learn more. We can only hope.

Funny moment... Tyler had us over for dinner and Melissa came with us. I'll just quote Tyler, " When I saw the flames I knew I was in over my head." He attempted to BBQ chicken that was burnt on the outside and raw on the inside. He wants a another chance to improve his meal presentation. The best part is that his housemate, Taylor is becoming our friend, as we come over for dinner twice a transferer.

We'll that's all I have. This work is amazng. I see the impact the gospel can have in peoples lives when they are willing to live it. Find something this week that you can improve to renew your faith and bring you closer to Christ. Love and miss you all. I am strving hard to make you all proud but especially our Heavenly Father.

Letters are good don't forget.
Love
Sister Peck

Letter should have names? - The life of this missionary continues- July 19

Aloha Everyone from Moscow Idaho!

While my bike was fixed again by Logan and Tyler's new housemate Taylor has volunteered his services as well. Awesome because I average about every two weeks. Also, someone finally told me if I raise my seat, riding would be better. That was some of the best advice I have ever been given. Now we really can cruise around. Also, still need to name my bike any good suggestions?

I am excited to see what happens here when school starts. There are normally two sets of missionaries to serve all 6 student wards during the school year. And instead on knocking on vacant apartments they'll actually have residents. This is exciting. August 9 we shall know the progress of the work here! We have one new investigator and he likes reading the Book of Mormon. It's really interesting receiving people’s intake of the Book of Mormon and how it is written. It was never something I ever thought about. I am in Hel 5. I am going to reach my goal of reading the Book of Mormon in 3 months. It's fun looking for principles and seeing how they apply to those we teach. This last week we've shared a lot about affliction and how it's for our gain. It's hard sometimes to see how trails are a blessing but they're are and they are part of the Plan so we can grow.

New focus is not only to find people to teach but to bring back those who have found themselves amiss. I am excited to teach these members who need to rekindle their faith. It promises to be fulfilling as we seek to help all of our brothers and sisters. Luke 15. this week as we tracked a new apartment building, which we were excited to find, we found a member who hasn't been active in years. before he even told us he was a member both of us already knew. There is something different about us that we can recognize. It's the gift of the Holy Ghost- The Comforter the Savior left for us. What an amazing gift. Strive to seek out how you can unitize this gift more frequently in your lives. It's empowering to know that a member of the Godhead can a assist you in your pursuits.

Best experience of the week, Reef, 3, taught us the gospel from memory. It was precious and true. He was so thrilled to hear we were missionaries. He pointed to a picture of Jesus Christ and said, "He is the Boss." Most matter of fact way. He also showed us how you can catch waves in the middle of the living room. His dad told him that when we send the missionaries off we always send them off with a prayer and he did that we would have revelation and revelation. On Sunday he came up to me and told me "You got dark." I told him it because we spend a lot of time outside riding our bikes. It was an acceptable answer for him.

I love Baptisms- July 12

Hi Everyone!

This last week has been amazing. Melissa baptism will be examined here in this email. Friday during planning we received a phone call from Melissa. Her boyfriend’s brother, who was suppose to baptize her and his girlfriend, who was suppose to give the talk on the Holy Ghost could no longer make it up. The next words I remember over hearing was can Sister Peck give the talk. I was privileged but didn't know when I would be able to prepare anything for her. I said a silent prayer and the inspiration came over the next 12 hours. Oh yes all night I woke up and would write down the impressions that came to mind. Don't worry Blaine this talk was way shorter than Jordan's and no one had to time me. See there is improvement. =) I related the gift of the Holy Ghost to that of a gift but how it differs and how we use it and related how our hands show our willingness to do the things we are prompted much like that of our Savior. I was almost in tears as I felt the Spirit in the room at this young women’s desire to follow the example of the Savior Jesus Christ. Even so much so that she like Lamar had a few immersions as well. Ralph the first time slipt up on the words and it wasn't brought to the attention of the Bishop until they were changing already. I just laughed and figured why not. Melissa was so willing to get back in the font. The drain had already been pulled but Ralph was determined to get her in and out again and didn't want to wait. We reopened the doors and with about a 1'-1.5'. He tried again but she wasn't completely immersed but the 3rd time was a charm. I felt so privileged to watch Melissa make this commitment to become better and to live beyond the norm. On Sunday, she received the gift of the Holy Ghost it was awesome and for the first time she partook of the sacrament and she just glowed. She has such an inner strength from knowing who she is and who are Savior is. Watch out for her. She'll be unstoppable.

Tracting is our favorite. No one is home but we continue to find new ways to find. So earlier Saturday morning we went street contacting at the farmers market here. It is a great way to find and just for the community to see us. Maybe they'll be a little more inclined to open their doors and listen to the message we have for them. I truly love the people here. The Lord has prepared me for this place at this time. I am so grateful for all of you who have shaped me and witnessed my life. I love my letters I receive. I truly feel encouragement and love as I read your words. I hope all is going well and I continue to pray for all of you.

Also in Church news I got to read a nice article about BYUH's trip to China. If anyone would send me their own story I'd love to hear about the amazing things that are happening from that school. Keep finding opportunities to share the gospel your offering them happiness and treasure of untold worth.

In the mission news letter every 2 months the outgoing missionaries leave a short glimpse of inspiration this one really stuck with me. "A promise to try is a promise to fail so just promise to do."- Elder Stevenson. If your struggling with something whether it be reading your scriptures. saying your prayers, sharing the gospel or maybe saying you’re sorry or forgiving yourself or some else or a variety of things maybe starting to be healthy, just make a promise to do it and the results will happen.

I love you all bunches.
Love always and forever
Sister Peck

Happy Belated 4th- July 7th

Hi Everyone,
We have another baptism this Saturday. We are so excited. Melissa is so ready. She really understands who she is as a daughter of God! This time we'll make sure there is enough water in the font and Melissa isn't terrified of the water.

Interesting stories- My bike ate my skirt. They say once you learn how to ride a bike you never forget. I seriously doubt that or maybe it's that I didn't learn how to ride in a skirt that presents a problem.

Sister Adams and I have our hands full and we get to do a lot of tracting. It is a blast. We meet so many wonderful people. This week have a My Servant Joseph put on by the students here in Moscow. So anytime someone didn't want to listen or said they weren't interested we invited all to come. It should be a great week. We are hoping for a lot of referrals from this so we can go and invite people to come closer to Christ. It is amazing. Yesterday we had Zone Conference. The Church has changed it's policy worldwide for Zone Conferences and Presidents interviews. They will happen quarterly and the new program will be introduced next May that I was in the pilot program at MTC. It is going to enhance the work so much. I am so excited. In the MTC I dreaded role playing but it is beginning to be a great tool to learn. I am so privileged to work with amazing missionaries here. It is truly amazing to be part of Gods army. Am learning to be more bold and understanding the importance of the message we have. Yesterday President inquired who we are and why we are on a mission. It was amazing. 2Ne 31 and 3 Ne 5:13. I love to see the change of heart am having to the work and to life. I wake up every morning more excited and happy. I am truly understanding who I am and what I can become.

Mom I got your package. Thank you so much. I am not quite sure how the mail works here. I get all your letters on the same day. Elder Fordham got your letter. I hope your writing all my MTC district.

Savanna you are amazing. Thank you so much for sending me that talk and sending Sister Adams a b-day card.

Grammy and Pappy I got your letter! Tell everyone hi from me on your adventures.

I hope everyone is doing well. Please send me updates on what you are all up to. I love letters!

Alma 5:6. Read this. It is something I never noticed until my scripture study the other day. Apply this and you'll see amazing things happen.

My sizes:
shirt M'
Skirt 10
shoe 10

Best thing is Sister Fa'anunu sewed my backpack it should hold for a while.

Love you all.
Sister Peck

Thursday, August 26, 2010

new area new address

265 gregory Dr
cheney, WA 99004

send the letter love!

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

PICTURES

You got it..... Sister Peck just sent some pictures. ENJOY :)

Homemade dumplings with rice flour. The Carlson's are soooo nice.


Amazing District Leaders :)

Monday, July 5, 2010

The Sun is out and I am ready to work

June 28, 2010
Hi Everyone!
Savanna we are at the library today and of course no go on the pictures. I'll send the card. =( sorry. You don't have to use all the photos.
This last week I feel so blessed by the many letters I received. Thank you bunches. As Casey use to do. Shout Outs.
Peck Family I loved my cards and working hard.
Grammy and Pappy I am getting your letters and I love them.
Cub, Tess and Laurel I got your letters I love them! And I love you.
Lois sent me an incredible letter. Thank you for the photo book of me as a baby.
Lindsey look for a letter in the mail this week.

So I am staying in Moscow! I am so excited because we have some investigators who might not have done well with a change and am excited to stay with Sister Adams. We are buds and enjoying teaching together. This is will be short but “Lamont's” baptism was amazing! He had to be immersed 4 times. I'll write the story to Savanna to share with everyone.
Story From LETTER: “Lamont” is SOOO scared of water, but we didn’t find this out until the day of the baptism. He was immersed 3x and ran out. None of them counted. We calmed him down and then told him he had to do it again and tears came to his eyes. The 4th time Brother Keller stood on the steps and said words of comfort and “Lamont” was finally fully submersed. It was beautiful. I never want to forget this tender moment of faith and conviction to follow the Lord. He has truly changed. He just glowed. He’s home. When Bishop Miller welcomed him to the ward he spoke such beautiful words of “Lamont” and the man he is becoming.

I was so excited about teaching about the Plan of Salvation with Grace I related the Celestial kingdom to California amusement parks. She got my excitement and laughed when I told her my family has a rollercoaster fetish. (Thanks Laurel for teaching the joy of rollercoasters)

Sister Adams had an amazing birthday! Three parties with the members and the missionaries here. Plus the Lord blessed us with a potential from Las Vegas! He's coming to Church this next week. He even called because he was out of town last week. We are so excited! I have to write president and only have 40 mins online. I love you all. My testimony is growing so much. If anyone has insights on a change of heart send it my way. Damion said if he knows what has to happen to observe the difference from where he is now he'll convert and move into the church. lol.
Love you all. Hope you're looking and having missionary opportunities.
Love always and forever
Sister Peck

A Week of Leadership

June 21, 2010
Happy Belated Father's Day.

This last week was one of learning. I had my second interview with President Palmer. He is absolutely an amazing man. Love just radiates from him. We discussed charity. It was so powerful. I am really beginning to understand who I am and the role I pay not only as a missionary but as a daughter of God and as His disciple for life. I could feel the Spirit working and changing my heart.
This week we met Tony, a vagabond. He's a big black man from New Orleans, who makes his route every 18 months. He really took us off guard especially since there were only three of us in the institute building. He was friendly and loud and wanted someone to care for his needs. He drew me a picture of Jesus. He said I was cold hearted because I am from Las Vegas. So I guess I needed Jesus more than the other Sisters. Bruce came to give him a ride. You could literally feel the presence of the priesthood. It was amazing to be able to realize the security it brought. Sister Adams and I became worried when we never heard back from Bruce. We eventually did and were glad that not only was Bruce safe but Tony had made it to his next destination of Pullman. He made it and the next night he was back! He wouldn't even talk to Sister Adams and I and took "Lamont" and Gentry outside. They took him to motel and Brother Jenkins explained Tony to Sister Adams and I. Even though Tony was scary and demanding he was the as he said the best looking bum I ever saw. My heart really goes out to Tony. To be a wanderer and to choose to stay. I know God loves all His children, especially those who are lost.

“Lamont” is amazing! He is getting baptized on Saturday. He has truly changed. He just lights up. He was so excited to plan his service. He chose the most random Hymns to be sung. Here's how the gospel changes people. "Lamont" has had a hard life, when I got here he still wasn't coming to church. Then he started coming. Now he sits wherever, it doesn't matter by whom and assists in cleaning, setting up, and participates in class. He hurt his knee and we had gotten him a ride yesterday and when it was 20 to he called to see if he needs to start walking to church in the rain. He gets it. He is a miracle. His life looking up and a new begging is what the gospel has in store for all of us. The ability to see our potential as children of God and then become it through repentance and covenants.

Friday night Elder Pearson came from the 1st Quorum of the 70. It was amazing! Not because he was here. The message could have come from anyone but it was indeed the message. We are the Children of God and as we change our identity it shapes our reality. For when we know who we are we become that if we choose to change(for the better). He talked of the Frontier to see miracles and that our prayers are indicator of knowing our relationship with Heavenly Father. Faith really is essential in our lives and the gospel. But we somehow choose to limit God. We limit our faith by doubt, discouragement, distractions, lack of diligence, disobedience, disbelief, and eventually denial. These things all combine together- one leads to the next. Please see where you could increase your faith. Once we understand true doctrine we have the capacity to change, to exercise our faith. P.S. I got to say the closing prayer. Coolest part was that it felt like it was just me and Heavenly Father. I am beginning to understand my own identity as his disciple. Elder Pearson is coming to Las Vegas this Fall. He if comes to speak in your stakes invite your friends to come to church.

Jenn taught her first lesson on Sunday! It invited the Spirit. Her whole focus was on Jesus Christ and how when he was here He loved everyone. The love was not continually. It was extended to everyone. Love truly is the motivating factor. When we are loved we want to change.

We are putting some major miles on my feet. We've meet so many neat and amazing people this last week. It's hard to capture all the words of how I feel but I love them. I am growing and learning. My Zone Leaders are amazing and can make a classroom an environment to teach with the Spirit.

Thuy is doing amazing! She just glows and loves being a member. She has already set their temple date as 6/12/12. So their marriage anniversary, her baptism date will all be the same. When we thought it might be three years- Aaron said that was too long to wait but the leap year will make it all happen. I am so excited for them.

Hope everyone is doing well. Next week is transfers so we shall see what happens.
Love you all. Thank you for your support. You are all in my prayers!

Love always and forever Sister Peck!

PS I heard from Sister Lisonbee. She is in Maine.! She is not having as much fun with me. jk. But It is great to hear from my MTC district. v

Enter in to learn, Go forth and Serve


June 14 2010
Aloha All!
This last week has been amazing! Four weeks in the mission field and counting. I am in a rush when I write these so please know am trying my best to use my grammar and spelling tools but there just isn't enough time for that always.

Sister Adams and I find ourselves with fewer investigators this last week. A lot of no shows to appointments and then we got dropped. I wasn't as devastated as was Sister Adams. I just know the seeds are planted and hope that she'll develop over time. So because of the lack of teaching we have been tracking the town of Moscow, which is about 20-30,000 in population.

Coolest experience. We were knocking on a football player’s door - He is studying philosophy and the words came out of relating Aristotle’s Allegory of the Cave to missionary work. It was brilliant and he said he was content watching the shadows on the wall. Sad but true. It was neat because I have not thought about Political Science 200 in such a long time. It shows how the gospel has relevance in every subject.

If you haven't read "Your Happily After" in the 2010 Ensign open it up and read. It's become one of my favorites. We really can have our own adventure and become the hero or heroine of our own lives. For one of our investigators, our goal has been the search for eternal law. How I wish I had my notes from Dr. Smith's class on natural laws. There are things that we exist in that govern us and one is that we have agency. That is the most profound and amazing gift that God has given us. Our ability to choose him or not was a concept that Abu, an African grad student here, was taken back at this gift. That it is really our ability to choose. He is in awe at the youthfulness of those that serve missions. That we would stop normal living to serve God. I was really touched by that.

Remember this week:
At the OBars for dinner and their son Gunnar had lost his mouse, for the computer, and we had just shared a message on prayer, and I with the best intentions told him that if he prayed that God would help him find it. I got in a response a strong remark form a four year old- NO HE WILL NOT! I was shocked. His dad explained that I was right and he then offered up a very skeptical prayer of help. I have to do some follow up on that to see if the mouse was found.
I did my first training- Savanna the talk on diligence in teaching was awesome. I still looked like a total spaz. You can call a girl to be a missionary but you can't change her all in one day. But it was good. It was on asking questions in a non-intimidating way. I am a work in progress and this is something I am working on.

Mom-I need you to ask Elliot for Jimmy's meat sauce recipe please.
If you have any missionary experiences please share them with me.
I got to attend my first baptism this Saturday. Thuy became a member, along with her brother in law, Isaac, 8. It was beautiful! Amanda an investigator of the Zone Leaders was my favorite to talk to because she was so amazed at the feelings she felt there and the peace. If you haven't been to a baptism in a while find out when there will be one near you and invite someone who you feel would benefit from being in attendance. “Lamont” who says he is never excited or not easily excited expressed his excitement for his own baptism.

I love the priesthood. I miss being around my RM friends, for that reason among others. At Liu's lesson this week Byron came and there was a completely different feeling. The priesthood brings order to chaos. It's amazing and I am so grateful that it has been restored and that members here are so willing to assist the missionary work in any way.

Brother Neal how was the wedding? Amy progress on having the missionaries over?
Darcie thank you for my letter! I love the picture on the back. Check the mail the end of this week for your letter.

Vaka, I found your letter you wrote me over 2 years ago. Sorry about that. It was amazing to hear from you and hope all is well and that this message finds you some how.
Grandma Hansen that is amazing that you were able to contact the missionary who baptized you! I love stories like that.

This work is true and the Lord is beginning to not only do a great work her in Moscow but with me. I feel my responsibility even more of my call to have Charity and to share the message of the restored gospel and for fulfilling my commitment to BYU Hawaii and the Church to serve in the world and to spread peace. Thank you for everyone that has taught and helped me develop in to the young woman I am today. Amazing things are happening here. I feel truly blessed to be entrusted with the Lord's work here. Love you all.

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

What to share that is the question?

Bishop taking a nap before breaking the fast.







Hi everyone,
Shout outs! Happy Late Annvesary Billy and Savanna and Ashlin and Micah! =)
Savanna and Billy I got my array of packages! I love the cookies and my huge box! Sister Leavitt I love my gluten free pretzels and pens, tabs, and highlighters. Now I can really get to work.

Grandma Hansen thanks for the card. I love it.

Mom Hi

Ok- Moscow is a small well larger than BYUH college town. It has a Walmart so we are closer to civilization. =) We walk a lot and we cover the 6 singles wards. It is a lot of meetings on Sunday. I like it though! I am learning a lot about how the Church operates. Always fun. I really love all my bishops. They have this genuine charity. It's outstanding. Bishop Miller is leading the way in teaching the other wards about focusing on how to help individuals come unto Christ. He is amazing. The singles are so into feeding us and taking care of my diet needs. It is so astounding their expression of love. The Fa'anunu's fed us last night. We talked about faith with them. It was amazing the insights you can receive as you discuss the principles of the gospel. Try it out this week. Look for opportunities to discuss a scripture. See what happens. I have had such a cultural experience here in Moscow the last week. Meet with a sweet Indian couple who prepared us traditional Indian food to later go to a lesson, with a couple from Micronesia, who feed us a feast. We were over whelmed at the recognition of those here to feed us as the missionaries.

This last week has been amazing. I am learning and changing so much. I can see the Lord's hand in my life more clearly than ever before. On Thursday I had the most Spiritual experience I've had on my mission in a lesson with a new member without a testimony. He was informing us that we were going to be lead astray by the prophet and apostles. I felt this overwhelming conviction and I bore powerful witness of these men. I know with every fiber of my being that Thomas S. Monson is a living prophet today and that his counselors and the 12 are men of God. They have a divine calling. They will NEVER lead us astray. I will follow them. I know through prayer that we can know that these men while mortal are called God and receive revelation to lead us in a day where we need to know how to face the prevails of our time. I know that is work is not a fairytale. God has a plan for us. He gives order to the the chaos.

We don't have any new investigators this week. that's ok. More tracking. I love meeting people. It's amazing to plant seeds of truth with them. Please share the gospel with those you interact with. I know it is of great worth to you but as you share it your conviction of the truth will grow.

Ok Jenn is a recent new member. She is the third member of our companionship. She takes where we need to go, feeds us, goes to lessons with us. She is just amazing. She took us to the Farmers Market here Saturday. Was such a neat experience to run into people we've knocked on their doors. It makes me smile. Ok if you go somewhere cool Jenn collects postcards. I need one from Vegas to give to her- Mom?

My favorite quote is from me this week when we were at a lesson with Dominic, a grad student from Nigeria. I said, "We have a pumpkin time." He looked at me like I used a huge word with no meaning. It was nearing 9pm when we need to be back in our apartment. So like Cinderella we too have a crew few. I explained and he just laughed and smiled at me like crazy Sister missionary.

We had 6 investigators come to Church on Sunday. I feel my love growing for each person I get to know. It truly is a work based on love. It has relevance to everyone no matter your situation in life. It only enriches.I see it changing peoples lives for the better here.

Love you all. This work is true and I will give my all to it.

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Last photos from the MTC

My Companions


This is how one can take another's badge.
Elder Clark Cannon, after i had given his "life" back to him :)
"sweet tooth" Elder Haws caught them though

Savanna sent me some Rhonda approved treats since I was lucky enough to get the early dinner.....


Me and my comps were so cold. UTAH... it's spring. Why are you so cold??

MY FAVORITE. Me and my district. elder rhodes in front.

My district (my MTC ohana)

Elder Haws, Pope, Jordan, Fordham, Webb, me, Sister Bullard and Lisonbee




The cream soda tree...need I say more?












Guess where I am....

Hi everyone!!!

Savanna, Billy's advice was right again. The day on coming to the field was extremely long but not hard. AM still waiting for that. It was awesome to talk to everyone on the phone. My new address is 226 North Line St. Apt 4 Moscow, ID 83843. That's right I am in Idaho! I've already been in two of the states in my mission.

The last couple days in the MTC I was itching to come. I have had some really neat experiences to understand charity and how that builds us. My district was amazing. Elder Jordan and Elder Fordham wrote the Sister's letters. My last testimony shared there was about Alma 17:2. How I want each one of us to not only return from our missions on spiritual highs but to run into them 20 -40 years down the road and see that we are still all faithful. That's my goal. It's about the conversion that happens in us that counts.

In Moscow last night, a man ran after us to inquire if we were the missionaries. It was awesome to be identified as the Lord's messengers but I was greived because this man had once served a mission and had left the church for some 15 years. He had been angry with God. If any of you are in the postion seek the Lord through prayer. There is never a cause to turn your back on something that can truly resuce and give peace to your souls.

Back to MTC. My Elders were assigned to be my traveling comps to the airport and they kept a very viligant eye on me even though there was another Sister traveling with us. Sister Riggs is amazing. I guess she was my next comp or Sister Smith our coordinating Sister was my comp for an hour. Talking to everyone at the airport was amazing. I am sorry I couldn't call everyone. For Christmas keep in mind calling cards=).

The plane there was so fun. I couldn't wait to meet our mission president and his wife. We were met by 20 or so leaving missionaries. What excitement and hope they left with us with. We went down the stairs and there was President and Sister Palmer. Hugs for Sister Riggs and I from Sister Palmer. Something I treasurre and miss.... Hugs. She knew who I was without reading my name tag. It made me feel loved. President was intrigured by me and my luggage and that it snaps together. I made a comment of how it makes me independent and President then offered to take it for me. I am now working on humility. :)

We went on a fearbuster mission. Tracking/ Street contacting in downtown Spokane. Was a blast. Thank you Bishop Leavitt for inviting the youth to do flooding in New Forest with the missionaries. I had already done it before and knew how to forget my insecurites and go to work. We taught a man name Tim. I gave him a Book of Mormon to read and he committed himself to read the first 50 pages. One thing I've come to know is that the gospel can be shared anywere. The street, a pinic table, a doorway, or over the phone.

I found out that my comp. had been reassigned here. Sister Adams, who I met last Tuesday was orginally supposed to go to Mongila. She is an amazing trainer. She is from Beaver, UT and has been in the field for 6 months. President told me to be patient but I haven't had too.

Sister Palmer went out of her way to make sure I had food for dinner after lunch had been a ton of salad. In my first interview with President Palmer, I cried when he told me he loved me. I knew he did and that not only did he want me to be sucessful at being a missionary he wanted me to successed in my life. Was touched that I had sent a picture in my get to know you letter that was from my farewell of the Beckstead crew. I really feel a trust and admiration for the Palmers.

Their son Jeffery remembers Victoria. He asked me during dinner how her missionary efforts were going and remember that she had brought Sammie wth her to EFY. Their son has an amazing testimony of the gospel. I was so moved when this 17 year old young man bore his strong testimony of God's love and work here on the Earth.

That night we stayed in a Carol's house. It looks like a beautiful doll house from the outside. It is! She has thousands of dolls. They were beautiful. It should be added to the Smithsioan. No joke. I was fasnicated by the the collection and took pictures. Tuesday I meet Sister Adams. She is so amazing.

I can't believe that am actually a missionary. I am so happy everyday. I don't feel discouraged when things don't work out. Which is so not the old me but it works. I am just ready and able to talk. There are sometimes durning lessons that my mouth doesn't open. I have really tired to rely on the Spirit for what to say. We have some amazing people we are teaching.

I got my wish to be in a college town. U of I. I love it. We cover the campus and the married and singles for the students. It has been a balst. We have three people on date and two of the people we taught last week came to church on Sunday. It made me feel this overwheleming sense of joy and peace. Since it was my first Sunday I was asked to bear my testimony. I felt inclined to talk about action. Once you know something is true, you are to act upon it. We are looking for more people to share our message with constantly. I love and encourage being on time and allowing enough time to be able to talk to everyone we meet. It is interesting how some people use there body lanuage to convey they want nothing to do with you, but that's ok. So many are looking for something, they're the ones who take us up on teaching them the basics of the gospel. I am truly enjoying the love and emphaty I feel for the people here.

To the Harris' Family- My Bike is Amazing!!! I cried when I saw it. It exceeds anything I could have ever imagined. Thank you. I cruise around in style. Also for anyone who has never tried to ride a bike in a skirt it is adventure and a task. I am also so cold here. I know it is spring but it does not seem to show it in the weather.

Congratulations to SIFE. Brother Neal thanks for writing. I didn't get a lot of corresondence this week and it was good to get the update. Everyone loves hearing that I graduated from BYUH. My mission president is from New Zealand and told my comp that I am a polyensian at heart. I think that is one of the greatest complements I have ever recieved.

Cody am sorry for judging your eating habits I now eat like you for lunch. It sacres me the sacrfices one will make for time. =) We are eating chips and salsa for lunch. Sound familar.

Addresses I need: Chandler (Pam Manning)

I need: Leggings so I don't show my religion to everyone as I ride my bike. Have searched in vain for some today. If those could be found and sent I would be so grateful.

Ideas for snacks and others: Fruit snacks, instant oatmeal make sure no milk please. and spray deorant - I heard it will help so my feet dont smell.

Ashlin please tell Micah I ran into Adam Eastburn at the MTC was unsuccessful in getting a pic but if you could get me his address that would be amazing. The gospel is moving forward. Any talks anyone gives or insights please send them my way. I am reading Our Search for Happiness right now. It is amazing. It is so I can better meet the needs of one of our investigators. Oh and I have color coded my planner, There is way to much infomation in that thing for it to be one color. Love and am so grateful for all of you.

Send letters- however I have learned that I don't need mail to be happy serving the Lord. Natassia I'll be writing you later today. I love the quote from Alice and Wonderland.

In the field

Sister Peck is now in the field.... not in washington though. She is in Moscow, IDAHO!! Keep the letters coming. Her new address is:

SIster Rhonda Peck
226 North Line St. Apt 4
Moscow, ID 83843

Monday, May 17, 2010

Testimony

My life has changed tonight. Elder Holland spoke tonight. I love him so much. All my doubts, 'unbelief' in myself are gone. I felt peace as he talked and wrote like crazy not to miss anything.

Jeremiah 31:33- This gospel is upon my heart. This is not only an 18 month committment but a life. It's my conversion that is taking place. Forever! Best line along with many others is, "This is God's truth.... I have not given my life to a fairy tale." I hae pages of notes.

Elder Holland promised blessings to our families; past, present and future. Our legacy for serving a mission. Everything makes sense. If all that pain, hardship, growth came so that I could be here tonight, everthing is worth it. All of it! I wont let any of you down.

Another great line is, "Commit to your destiny, your conversion." As, Peter, had his failed moments- so did I but as he was asked 'lovest thou me?' I reply, "yea Lord and am ready to get the work done." I love you all. This is my testimony. I saw an apostle of God bear witness of who i am and what i am to become. I caught the vision.

Love always,
Sister Peck.
God is good. God is great.

Washington.... Here I Come!!

Sister Peck is now heading to Washington. The REAL mission begins. She said the MTC was the most amazing experience and that she has met some real life long friends. So much love! She said she still wants more mail, so keep sending it. In a couple of days we will find out her direct address, but for the time being you can send mail to the mission office.

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

2nd Week in MTC

hi.
This last week feels like a glimpse and an eternity. My comp taught our first investigators. Death seems to be an overlapping theme in all of our lessons. It's amazing to have a knowledge of what's to come and to help and invite people to learn and follow the plan God has for them. Got to experience snow here. Crazy!! Bad thing is that I left most of my winter stuff at home to be mailed. It's Spring, right??? I love it here and am adjusting to the weather.

on Cinco Day Mayo - Sister Lizonbees mom sent chips and salsa we had a little comp party in the dorms. =) Savanna- Your treat box made me full of joy. My comp took a picture of me stuffing a cookie into my mouth. The Elders noticed how much joy was seeping out of me. =) I became funny. It happened over night. I really amuse my comps with my dry sense of humor. We are making a collection of quotes that happen everyday. I love it. Best quote of the week- Two Elders leaving mail room. in regards to a letter - "Elder she's my girlfriend."as the other Elder tries to take it. Oh I've been called Elder Peck like 10 times. Come to find out there are two here. I've meet one and they are both from the same line. Impressive.

oh course have made friends with the Elders from Hawaii and New Zealand. They just have so much fun. Pictures to come.

Sister Bullard, Sister Lisonbee and I have bonded over the last week. They are truly amazing women. We got to hear from Sheri Dew Sister Lizzy's hero. Enough so that we went to meet her afterwards. Loved it. She gave the same talk that she did when she came to BYUH in 2008?-2009 on the noble and great ones. If someone could get me a copy of that talk I would appreciate it.

Our Elders in our District are amazing. They do however have their 12 year old moments especially around our zone leaders but this made up for all those moments. They wrote the sisters notes for mothers day. These are letters I will treasure forever. So interesting to see how other people write. It made Mother's Day the best! Happy Belated Mother's Day to all the women I love and have influenced me.

I got to go on a field trip. I caught some type of stomach bug but it lasted for a little too long and on Sat. I got to go to the doctors off the MTC. My sisters loved it more than me. The doctor gave me some meds but no big deals. I am feeling much better now. I got a blessing from Elder Fordham. It was amazing.

I had the opportunity to teach with an instructor here, Sister Pike. Elder Cannon who I accidental took name badge, was our investigator. It impacted me because I was able to relate so much of the gospel to him in a new way and was able to draw analogy between how he has a best friend and how the Savior is our best friend and then to how the atonement could be made possible because of those feelings of love. I learned a lot about asking questions in this practice. looking for a definition on diligence. Its my Christlike attribute I am working on. Love to hear what you all have to say on the topic. Write me a letter!!!

Letter senders.
Ash thanks for letter.

Happy BirthdayGrammy hope your having fun in Cali and Pappy love you. Please share insights from that 2nd coming book.
Zee you rock! I love you SIS I can't wait till you get here.

My email does not allow me enough time so if you've emailed gmail I haven't seen it.

Happy Birthday Colby and Quinn too.
Casey: Birthday shot out to you too.

Please write about life as well as church stuff it's uplifting. Nights are tough, so many things to process. This place makes you loopy and time goes to quick. I've lost stuff so many times its crazy. Sister Lizzy just asked me to pray for her whites. She used bleach, Grammy please send the names of soap your supposed to use so I can educate everyone. Love is the motivating factor. It's what makes the difference.

What is perhethin and is it safe? Love everyone. Thanks for your prayers and support. Write. this is the best choice I've ever made.
Forever and AlwaysSister Peck

Companions and Friends

Here are some pictures of Sister Peck with her companions and some Elder's in her district.


A little drawing that Elder jordan created per the request of Sister Peck.

All the Elder's call this the model shoot pose. Sister Peck and Elder Haws on their temple walk.

Sister Peck and Elder Pope. "reminds me of Ryan Peck"

"me happy"


Taken by Elder Haws,"True Story- me, sister lisonbee and Sister Bullard"

"Everyone is jealous of the trio."