Start date 09.30.2552:
This week has been filled with craziness and surprises. I don't even know where to begin. So... Last Thursday, we had to go to the office to pick up a new sister. She is a brand new Thai Missionary (and they come in a week before Farangs) so we were a Threesome for a week. Awesome. We had a lot of GREAT progress with our investigators, good work with the ward, and we even had a bapitism planned for this next Sunday. We've been having fun WALKING, ALL DAY in the RAIN... it's seriously rainy season now. The streets flood (all of them) and we I felt like I was at the beach becasue of the waves that would come every time a bus passed us on the streets. I've come to the decision that riding bikes is superior to walking. I'm always so much more exhausted when we walk opposed to riding. If we go a day without riding that Babylon song "I want to ride my Bicycle" comes to mind... (oh, Queen...) So then, becasue Moves meeting is Tomorrow, Monday and Tuesday (and Today) are full of wonderment and anticpation. Monday-- we try to guess what's going to happen. On Tuesday, we all change our guesses after we get the phone calls that tell us who's going to move or not. This Tuesady was especially fun.. I had to go down to the office and Downtown to renew my Visa ( every 3 months is country) So we were with a bunch of other missionaries as everyone got "the calls". So we had finished our Visa business and then gone to our local missionary favored resturant (Que Pasa--ohh I love Mexican food!) when we finally got our call. Well.. surprise surprise... We already knew that sister Wichittra would be moving becasue she's already been in Bangnaa for 4 moves (6 months-time to move) and since I just got here, and typically they only replace one missionary so the other one can lead and continue the work with the invesitagotors--(all of you have been on missions understand this) we assumed I would be staying. Which was perfect becasue i know the area, our investigators, our new Landlord, etc... But WATCH OUT...we're both moving!?! what the... ok. So... then we went into hyper drive becasue we have sooo much to do before Thursday mornning moves meeting. We spent ALL day yesterday moving all of the stuff from our old house to the new one. Thanks to the office Elders and our wonderful Elders in our district, we were able to successfully move everything. The only hard things was getting ride of all the junk left over from the 9 years of missionaries who had passed through that house. Missionary houses are interesting.. And it was hard to get ride of stuff becasue my Thai sisters wanted to keep everything, while our American mentality is to get ride of everything we don't need. But really... "we don't need that map of Camobia from 1960, Sister.... It's torn in 3 pieces anyway." Needless to say, I spent a lot of time going through and throwing stuff awayl.. Now of next project is to set up the new house and prepare everyrthing as well as possible for the poor new sisters who have to boldly (and blindly) move into this area. We just hope our new landlord brings all the promised items for the house today... Oh man...
And I haven't even started to pack for real yet. Awesome.
I really do love everything about missions. Everything. Thailand is AWESOME. The Gospel, AWESOME.
In other news, while I was in the office the other day I got to talking with one of the Elders who was in the MTC with me (one transfer behind me.) Elder McConkie.. and we discovered that we both know the Huffs. He was like "you live in Pasadena? My aunt lives there" Turns out it was the Huffs. So we had a fun time chatting about that. So if you see them, please tell them we say hello from Thailand. Their nephew is an amazing missionary. He's going to do FANTASTIC things here.
Umm, I'm running out of time, and I have a lot to do. But. It was fun to hear from a few of you today. Katie K Shaw lady... I love you. You know this. I can't belive it's been a year since you went to Utah. (and No, we didn't get to see Women's conference either mom, And conference will come a week after it is in the states, so EnjoY!!!) Sister Clive! Thanks for the email. That was a fun surprise. Good to hear about all your adventures. I hope All your kids are having fun and success. Did the fires stop? It's hot here too, but the sheet of water falling from the sky prevents forrest fires (much like smokey the bear... or you?...umm yeah... ) anways. Family- I love you all soooooo much and I hope you remember that. Tara- thanks for the email.. However, you forget to mention your new address.. So, just so you Bence girls know.. it's NOT my fault you're not getting letters from me. I do NOT have a address to send things to you. I love you. Kellie!!! You are sensational.. and I love you...7 times over.. I'm currently in the process of writing back.. but it might take a while (for everyone actually) with this whole moving craziness business.) (she might should)
Please don't judge my English skills.... I know they're are decressing.
Well, I'll write to you next week from a new city and with a new comp. ( i think i'll be a threesome.. why? i don't know-- but that's how i feel.)
LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE...
Sister O'Neil
Sep 29, 2009
Sep 22, 2009
Update!
Hello from the other side of the world.
Well, i don't think my letter will be very long today, I'm working on uploading all my photos to Picasa so you can all see them and so I don't have to print out every picture and send it to you. President said I could, so I think once a moves ( every 6 weeks) I'll upload. Then u can all look at them and enjoy my life too. It should make it really easy to add photos to the blog too, if you so wish to do so. (Note from Megan... I will work on posting pictures)
This week was pretty good... filled with hilarious mis-adventures. My favorite was the pouring RAIN yesterday. Probably the hardest I've ever seen in my life here in Thailand (or in life in general....not sure... but pretty close). It stopped for a while and then just as we were about to leave to go to a visit a recent convert it started to sprinkle again. Well, we didn't get more 5 feet from our house before it started to rain harder. Then with each progressing step it got harder and harder and harder! Thunder, lightening, everything. I was just laughing. We only had one umbrella and by the time a found a taxi to hop into we were SOAKED.. Pretty much just went swimming.. (umm.. is that against the rules? The street wasn't a swimming pool when we left our house, President, I promise!)
haha. Anyhoo. Today we're off to President's house to meet with the sisters and Sister smith! Yay! It should be fun.
Ok- I love you all.. I hope you enjoy the pictures and such. Take care. Thanks for all the love and support and prayers! The church is TRUE!!!
Love, Sister O'Meil (yes.. i spelled my name wrong in Thai this week... awesome. :) )
Well, i don't think my letter will be very long today, I'm working on uploading all my photos to Picasa so you can all see them and so I don't have to print out every picture and send it to you. President said I could, so I think once a moves ( every 6 weeks) I'll upload. Then u can all look at them and enjoy my life too. It should make it really easy to add photos to the blog too, if you so wish to do so. (Note from Megan... I will work on posting pictures)
This week was pretty good... filled with hilarious mis-adventures. My favorite was the pouring RAIN yesterday. Probably the hardest I've ever seen in my life here in Thailand (or in life in general....not sure... but pretty close). It stopped for a while and then just as we were about to leave to go to a visit a recent convert it started to sprinkle again. Well, we didn't get more 5 feet from our house before it started to rain harder. Then with each progressing step it got harder and harder and harder! Thunder, lightening, everything. I was just laughing. We only had one umbrella and by the time a found a taxi to hop into we were SOAKED.. Pretty much just went swimming.. (umm.. is that against the rules? The street wasn't a swimming pool when we left our house, President, I promise!)
haha. Anyhoo. Today we're off to President's house to meet with the sisters and Sister smith! Yay! It should be fun.
Ok- I love you all.. I hope you enjoy the pictures and such. Take care. Thanks for all the love and support and prayers! The church is TRUE!!!
Love, Sister O'Meil (yes.. i spelled my name wrong in Thai this week... awesome. :) )
Sep 16, 2009
คำ
Family,
Well, It's the middle of September. Transfers is in 2 weeks, (no! my เเม่ 's going to leave me!) and I keep thinking how I'm running out of time. I'll be home in a year. What the? Only 13 more months. That's not enough time. Did I every tell you how I've had this reoccurring dream ever since the MTC that I get home and for some reason I can't remember my mission or how to speak Thai? I know I went on one, but i can't remember it or anything more than "Sawaddii Kha" in Thai. Horrible, Horrible dream. haha. Anyhoo.
This week has been fun and busy. It's interesting to see how each day and week are so drastically different. Things in Thailand are still intense. The smells, foods (last night I ate about 3 little squids...) people, weather... (did I forget to mention it was rainy season?--ok..well actually- we didn't have a whole of of storms this past week-- but before- -- WHOA DANG storms here are incredible), the way I'm noticing how the Lord works. Everyday, one of our goals is to get referrals. Referrals from members, non-members, other missionaries-- anyone really. Every once in a while we get referrals straight from God. Just yesterday we got a phone call from a Taxi driver that we invited one day about a month ago and he says "hey- I have a passenger who wants to go to a church...where's your church again?" He ends up just handing the phone to his passenger and this woman just tells us she wants to learn about Jesus Christ and that she is wiling to meet us at the church. So 3 hours later, we met her at the church, gave her the Book of Momron and now she's a new investigator. OK... missionary work is so fun. All I have to do everyday is go out and TALK to people. I love it. I love talking (you all know this already). Plus, it's really incredible to see how this truth changes and affects people's lives. It's amazing to see the changes in their countenance when they find out for themselves that God is real and He loves them, individually. Awesome.
We've been teaching and studying a lot about service this week. Read Mosiah 2:17 and then go do something good for someone else. It will change your life, one smile at a time.
Umm... well... On another note. I found a huge cockroach in our area book last night. haha. Yay for moving in 2 weeks! ok- actually our house isn't that bad. But we are excited to move to a new place.
OH hey- how could i forget! Thanks for the package(s)! I got the DVD last week and finally got to watch it yesterday. So fun! I felt like i was there and Like i had 47 nieces and nephews because of all the pictures of them. They are so cute. Little Cracker and Izzie !! It's fun to see how they've changed already. So thank you for that. I think I watched it like 4 times. And you know what i decided.. that's what you should send.. Don't send food and stuff because honestly-- I could buy a lot more of that stuff just with the money you'd spend on postage... but dvd's are great!! You could video yourselves and your lives and make Cody make another movie for me. :) AND yesterday I got the other little box with the gum, and bracelet and tape. I haven't listened to it yet, though. I have to find a tape player first. :) BUT i'm excited! So thank you. I love you all. It made me happy. especially to see the massive amounts of ice cream you consumed. O'Neils for sure. (plus my companion is obsessed with that "ice cream and creamy cake" song...haha)
Well, I think that's about all for now. I love you all. I don't think I'll ever still be able to say enjoy "thank yous" and "I love you"s ever.
Love, Sister โอนีล
Extras:
Happy birthday to Nicole (on the 8th..) I don't remember if I said it in my email last week or not.
Also... Happy birthday to TARLENA, and Roach, and Leah ( if I remember correctly... which I think I do?)
I love all you fine ladies.
Well, It's the middle of September. Transfers is in 2 weeks, (no! my เเม่ 's going to leave me!) and I keep thinking how I'm running out of time. I'll be home in a year. What the? Only 13 more months. That's not enough time. Did I every tell you how I've had this reoccurring dream ever since the MTC that I get home and for some reason I can't remember my mission or how to speak Thai? I know I went on one, but i can't remember it or anything more than "Sawaddii Kha" in Thai. Horrible, Horrible dream. haha. Anyhoo.
This week has been fun and busy. It's interesting to see how each day and week are so drastically different. Things in Thailand are still intense. The smells, foods (last night I ate about 3 little squids...) people, weather... (did I forget to mention it was rainy season?--ok..well actually- we didn't have a whole of of storms this past week-- but before- -- WHOA DANG storms here are incredible), the way I'm noticing how the Lord works. Everyday, one of our goals is to get referrals. Referrals from members, non-members, other missionaries-- anyone really. Every once in a while we get referrals straight from God. Just yesterday we got a phone call from a Taxi driver that we invited one day about a month ago and he says "hey- I have a passenger who wants to go to a church...where's your church again?" He ends up just handing the phone to his passenger and this woman just tells us she wants to learn about Jesus Christ and that she is wiling to meet us at the church. So 3 hours later, we met her at the church, gave her the Book of Momron and now she's a new investigator. OK... missionary work is so fun. All I have to do everyday is go out and TALK to people. I love it. I love talking (you all know this already). Plus, it's really incredible to see how this truth changes and affects people's lives. It's amazing to see the changes in their countenance when they find out for themselves that God is real and He loves them, individually. Awesome.
We've been teaching and studying a lot about service this week. Read Mosiah 2:17 and then go do something good for someone else. It will change your life, one smile at a time.
Umm... well... On another note. I found a huge cockroach in our area book last night. haha. Yay for moving in 2 weeks! ok- actually our house isn't that bad. But we are excited to move to a new place.
OH hey- how could i forget! Thanks for the package(s)! I got the DVD last week and finally got to watch it yesterday. So fun! I felt like i was there and Like i had 47 nieces and nephews because of all the pictures of them. They are so cute. Little Cracker and Izzie !! It's fun to see how they've changed already. So thank you for that. I think I watched it like 4 times. And you know what i decided.. that's what you should send.. Don't send food and stuff because honestly-- I could buy a lot more of that stuff just with the money you'd spend on postage... but dvd's are great!! You could video yourselves and your lives and make Cody make another movie for me. :) AND yesterday I got the other little box with the gum, and bracelet and tape. I haven't listened to it yet, though. I have to find a tape player first. :) BUT i'm excited! So thank you. I love you all. It made me happy. especially to see the massive amounts of ice cream you consumed. O'Neils for sure. (plus my companion is obsessed with that "ice cream and creamy cake" song...haha)
Well, I think that's about all for now. I love you all. I don't think I'll ever still be able to say enjoy "thank yous" and "I love you"s ever.
Love, Sister โอนีล
Extras:
Happy birthday to Nicole (on the 8th..) I don't remember if I said it in my email last week or not.
Also... Happy birthday to TARLENA, and Roach, and Leah ( if I remember correctly... which I think I do?)
I love all you fine ladies.
Sep 9, 2009
2 months!
Well, I've been in ประเทสไทย for ๒ months now. To say it out loud makes is sounds like a while, but I really feel like I JUST got here, hmm, maybe 5 seconds ago. (oh, but wow-- to think that I was on a train only a week ago??? That seems like 5 years ago...) Hokay, anyway..
The work is progressing here in บางนา. We're seeing fine progress with some of our investigators, finding new ones and teaching. As always. However, we are always on the hunt for new people to teach and ways to make our Vision for Thailand become reality. We didn't have any new exciting service reports for this week because we had to go to the office for interviews instead. It ended up being a full day event because President Smith just got off a plan and came straight to the office. Then there were a lot of missionaries who talked for a long time with him. President Smith is so great. I really respect and love him. And his Wife. She's great. Today we just came back from Bowling in Downtown for a Zone เที่ยว. It was at this WAY "hi-so" mall in the heart of Bangkok. It was a lot of fun to bowl with everyone. yay.
They just announced the list of words that will change in the new year for the church in Thailand, including the Name of the church. It's kinda exciting. They're going to release a triple combination, too. We're all excited about that. They also made a goal for everyone to read the Book of Mormon by the end of the year. So, I've made that a goal for myself also. Read the Book of Mormon, In THAI, before the end of the year. It's hard, especially seeing I can only read about 15 verses in an hour right now... BUT... already I can see improvement. Reading the Book of Mormon does miracles. Honestly. Everyone should read it. Every day. It will change your life. If you read it already..do it again. and again. It will still change your life.
I hope the rest of the clan is doing well. I tip my hat to all of you. and also say "farang!" Oh yeah. Lisa, Thanks again for the picture of the family you sent to me while I was in the MTC. I use it almost everyday and it's a great door opener for me to use with people. Whenever I don't understand what they're saying, I just change the subject and say "oh hey-- look at all these white people". It's quite fun. So thanks. You are all famous in Thailand.
I got an email from Kathy. It's nice to hear how my second family is doing. :) Iowa, Leah? Wow. I didn't expect that one. David, I'm not that surprised. Laura, Tara.... Unacceptable. Daniel's going to the singles ward! wow! Way to go DAN. If you don't mind, I would really appreciate if I could get all of the new addresses.. I can't send letters because I don't know where to send them. :) Kathy: there are often times when I'm teaching English where I like "oh man...what would Kathy do.? I should have come to your class and picked up some tips. It's so fun!
To all of you other Blog stalkers: Thanks for taking time to read this. I'm glad I could help you distract yourself from work or homework and such.. or just fill your empty time with something to read. Trust me, I know how that is. You are all my dear friends and I miss you. I hope all of your life happenings (i.e., marriages, graduations, babies, movies, cooking(s), movings, schooling, or nothings/everythings) are all exciting and progressing. Remember what they taught you in Primary ( go to church, read your scriptures, pray, etc.) and you'll be just fine. Now: some of you won't understand or care about the next few things I"m going to write, but you'll know what I'm talking about, if you know what I'm talking about. Ready Go... "I don't know Hilary, he wants a Fanta" She might should. Coot on Goodge street. So did she! Hey, remember that time... Grizz. Boots with the fur. You would. "Our house" the boat. BIKE CLUB (it's even better in Thailand).. CoCo in the Morning cause it just feels so right. OK ladies, we're going for a walk. and then....temptation came. Lot's Wife. BLT. "iiieeeeee"
OK- that's all I got for right now. Email me sometime. It's free to all. You'll just have to wait for a couple weeks for a response. I LOVE you all จริง จริง.
The work is progressing here in บางนา. We're seeing fine progress with some of our investigators, finding new ones and teaching. As always. However, we are always on the hunt for new people to teach and ways to make our Vision for Thailand become reality. We didn't have any new exciting service reports for this week because we had to go to the office for interviews instead. It ended up being a full day event because President Smith just got off a plan and came straight to the office. Then there were a lot of missionaries who talked for a long time with him. President Smith is so great. I really respect and love him. And his Wife. She's great. Today we just came back from Bowling in Downtown for a Zone เที่ยว. It was at this WAY "hi-so" mall in the heart of Bangkok. It was a lot of fun to bowl with everyone. yay.
They just announced the list of words that will change in the new year for the church in Thailand, including the Name of the church. It's kinda exciting. They're going to release a triple combination, too. We're all excited about that. They also made a goal for everyone to read the Book of Mormon by the end of the year. So, I've made that a goal for myself also. Read the Book of Mormon, In THAI, before the end of the year. It's hard, especially seeing I can only read about 15 verses in an hour right now... BUT... already I can see improvement. Reading the Book of Mormon does miracles. Honestly. Everyone should read it. Every day. It will change your life. If you read it already..do it again. and again. It will still change your life.
I hope the rest of the clan is doing well. I tip my hat to all of you. and also say "farang!" Oh yeah. Lisa, Thanks again for the picture of the family you sent to me while I was in the MTC. I use it almost everyday and it's a great door opener for me to use with people. Whenever I don't understand what they're saying, I just change the subject and say "oh hey-- look at all these white people". It's quite fun. So thanks. You are all famous in Thailand.
I got an email from Kathy. It's nice to hear how my second family is doing. :) Iowa, Leah? Wow. I didn't expect that one. David, I'm not that surprised. Laura, Tara.... Unacceptable. Daniel's going to the singles ward! wow! Way to go DAN. If you don't mind, I would really appreciate if I could get all of the new addresses.. I can't send letters because I don't know where to send them. :) Kathy: there are often times when I'm teaching English where I like "oh man...what would Kathy do.? I should have come to your class and picked up some tips. It's so fun!
To all of you other Blog stalkers: Thanks for taking time to read this. I'm glad I could help you distract yourself from work or homework and such.. or just fill your empty time with something to read. Trust me, I know how that is. You are all my dear friends and I miss you. I hope all of your life happenings (i.e., marriages, graduations, babies, movies, cooking(s), movings, schooling, or nothings/everythings) are all exciting and progressing. Remember what they taught you in Primary ( go to church, read your scriptures, pray, etc.) and you'll be just fine. Now: some of you won't understand or care about the next few things I"m going to write, but you'll know what I'm talking about, if you know what I'm talking about. Ready Go... "I don't know Hilary, he wants a Fanta" She might should. Coot on Goodge street. So did she! Hey, remember that time... Grizz. Boots with the fur. You would. "Our house" the boat. BIKE CLUB (it's even better in Thailand).. CoCo in the Morning cause it just feels so right. OK ladies, we're going for a walk. and then....temptation came. Lot's Wife. BLT. "iiieeeeee"
OK- that's all I got for right now. Email me sometime. It's free to all. You'll just have to wait for a couple weeks for a response. I LOVE you all จริง จริง.
Sep 2, 2009
Wait--this is real?!
Hello from the land of smiles!
Well, today has been quite the adventure, indeed. We got up, took a cab to the train station, then hopped on a train with 2 other companionship's to go to อยุธยา (Ayuthya)! This town was incredible, but I'm not there yet...we're still on the train. So as you know, I love trains, so I was definitely loving my life. Yes, it was hot, and crowded and the our seats were right across from the bathroom (literally a hole in the train) but i loved it all. It was great to get away from the city and see whole new side of Thailand. The farther we got away, the more it look what I had first imagined Thailand to look it. (and, btw, the train is the way to travel, SOOO cheap!) So we show up to the train station, all 7 of us sisters and because 5 of us were white of course everyone's freaking out and wanting to take us in their took took to see everything. Then people were crazy for a sec, so we decided not to use them because they were freaking out because one of the sisters (a khonThai) didn't speak Thai "chat" clearly, so they didn't believe she was Thai.. Why? We still have no idea what the problem was..haha. So after trying to calm people down ("WE all speak Thai" and "this is the land of smiles, right? ) we all crammed in this little took took, going from Wat to Wat enjoying the beauty of Thailand. I would try to describe them, but i cant.. so I'll just send pics....it's more beautiful and descriptive that way. But if you can't wait, just go watch Mortal Combat (2 I'm actually not sure, I don't remember seeing the movie, but that's what everyone said...?) and you'll know where I went. K. I love Thailand. So then we hopped back on the train and came home, (more time to love my life being on a train, with the window open in Thailand with it raining on us (natural cooling agent)). Sometimes i just have to remind myself that this is all real. My life still seems surreal...
Anyhoo, so that was just today. The rest of the week was great. Time is FLYING. I feel like I just pressed "send" on last week's email like 2 1/2 min ago. We had Zone Conference, Ward Conference and everyday full of teaching, preaching and finding. Ward conference was a big deal here, so I can just imagine what stake conference was like. I sang with our ward choir for conference, too. So fun! I was thinking about our stake and how I have a totally different perspective on wards/stakes, etc as a missionary. I know that the missionaries serving in our stakes and ward in the Arcadia mission REALLY care and love everyone and really do want to help it be a stronger, more "zion" like ward/stake. They work hard to help build up and strengthen everyone spiritual. So if anyone feels like their ward or stake is struggling, they should talk with their missionaries in their ward and ask how they can help. ( i know we LOVE it when a member can come teach with us. It's fun and easy and you feel really good after you do it). Missionary work is just serving. So if you want any ideas on how to help your ward-Talk to the missionaries. Or at least feed them.. haha. :) Mom and Dad, Thanks for always being such a great example on how to fulfill and magnify callings. I've been blessed with amazingness my whole life because of people like you.
This whole email thing is kinda weird too. I'll just email whoever I can remember every time. Direct family is totally cool to email to, but the rest you slums will have to wait... haha... OK... i really don't know why "slums" was the first thing I thought of. None of you are "slums." ........in fact...what does that even mean? I love you all. จริง.
So, on a totally unrelated note.. people are always asking me what things I miss or want if they send a package or something. Honestly, I'm good. And because it's so expensive to send stuff, I figure, just don't. BUT.... just in case someone really wanted to know... I thought of something that would be nice (because i was shopping and thought of it): Instant Oatmeal. (cinnamon :) ) Nature valley granola bars, or anything of that sort. Those are just guiltily pleasures that you can find here in some "high-so" places, but they're not worth spending our money on. If i ever move out of the city, I know those kind of things would be wondrous and glorious to receive.. So just put that in your back pocket. Fruit snacks, fruit roll ups, granola bars, instant oatmeal, etc, etc. Things like that. Basically the things that Kellie gave me in that delicious surprise attack visit goodie bag at the airport. yummm.. :) Now don't go out and send anything just because i said this. I don't really need anything. Just wanted to let you know.
Well, I gtg now. Time is always running out.
Jenny- Good luck with school this year! have fun! Work hard. Study hard! Make goals and plans and accomplish all of your wildest dreams. Chris and Nicole : "all of those things are my favorites too!" Vinton's "Booty" Riles and Jill " Dang Gina!" McCracklet's: Have fun in Cali! everyone else: "you are so cool."
Until next week!
Love,
Sister O'Neil
OH WAIT!!! How did I forget. So you know how we're doing "service" at the Hospital? Well in this week's episode: we watched a guy get screws in his arm. Aka.. SURGERY. Seriously...what the random.. Only in Thailand would they invite us into watch a guy get his arm fixed.... Oh Thailand...
LOVE!
Well, today has been quite the adventure, indeed. We got up, took a cab to the train station, then hopped on a train with 2 other companionship's to go to อยุธยา (Ayuthya)! This town was incredible, but I'm not there yet...we're still on the train. So as you know, I love trains, so I was definitely loving my life. Yes, it was hot, and crowded and the our seats were right across from the bathroom (literally a hole in the train) but i loved it all. It was great to get away from the city and see whole new side of Thailand. The farther we got away, the more it look what I had first imagined Thailand to look it. (and, btw, the train is the way to travel, SOOO cheap!) So we show up to the train station, all 7 of us sisters and because 5 of us were white of course everyone's freaking out and wanting to take us in their took took to see everything. Then people were crazy for a sec, so we decided not to use them because they were freaking out because one of the sisters (a khonThai) didn't speak Thai "chat" clearly, so they didn't believe she was Thai.. Why? We still have no idea what the problem was..haha. So after trying to calm people down ("WE all speak Thai" and "this is the land of smiles, right? ) we all crammed in this little took took, going from Wat to Wat enjoying the beauty of Thailand. I would try to describe them, but i cant.. so I'll just send pics....it's more beautiful and descriptive that way. But if you can't wait, just go watch Mortal Combat (2 I'm actually not sure, I don't remember seeing the movie, but that's what everyone said...?) and you'll know where I went. K. I love Thailand. So then we hopped back on the train and came home, (more time to love my life being on a train, with the window open in Thailand with it raining on us (natural cooling agent)). Sometimes i just have to remind myself that this is all real. My life still seems surreal...
Anyhoo, so that was just today. The rest of the week was great. Time is FLYING. I feel like I just pressed "send" on last week's email like 2 1/2 min ago. We had Zone Conference, Ward Conference and everyday full of teaching, preaching and finding. Ward conference was a big deal here, so I can just imagine what stake conference was like. I sang with our ward choir for conference, too. So fun! I was thinking about our stake and how I have a totally different perspective on wards/stakes, etc as a missionary. I know that the missionaries serving in our stakes and ward in the Arcadia mission REALLY care and love everyone and really do want to help it be a stronger, more "zion" like ward/stake. They work hard to help build up and strengthen everyone spiritual. So if anyone feels like their ward or stake is struggling, they should talk with their missionaries in their ward and ask how they can help. ( i know we LOVE it when a member can come teach with us. It's fun and easy and you feel really good after you do it). Missionary work is just serving. So if you want any ideas on how to help your ward-Talk to the missionaries. Or at least feed them.. haha. :) Mom and Dad, Thanks for always being such a great example on how to fulfill and magnify callings. I've been blessed with amazingness my whole life because of people like you.
This whole email thing is kinda weird too. I'll just email whoever I can remember every time. Direct family is totally cool to email to, but the rest you slums will have to wait... haha... OK... i really don't know why "slums" was the first thing I thought of. None of you are "slums." ........in fact...what does that even mean? I love you all. จริง.
So, on a totally unrelated note.. people are always asking me what things I miss or want if they send a package or something. Honestly, I'm good. And because it's so expensive to send stuff, I figure, just don't. BUT.... just in case someone really wanted to know... I thought of something that would be nice (because i was shopping and thought of it): Instant Oatmeal. (cinnamon :) ) Nature valley granola bars, or anything of that sort. Those are just guiltily pleasures that you can find here in some "high-so" places, but they're not worth spending our money on. If i ever move out of the city, I know those kind of things would be wondrous and glorious to receive.. So just put that in your back pocket. Fruit snacks, fruit roll ups, granola bars, instant oatmeal, etc, etc. Things like that. Basically the things that Kellie gave me in that delicious surprise attack visit goodie bag at the airport. yummm.. :) Now don't go out and send anything just because i said this. I don't really need anything. Just wanted to let you know.
Well, I gtg now. Time is always running out.
Jenny- Good luck with school this year! have fun! Work hard. Study hard! Make goals and plans and accomplish all of your wildest dreams. Chris and Nicole : "all of those things are my favorites too!" Vinton's "Booty" Riles and Jill " Dang Gina!" McCracklet's: Have fun in Cali! everyone else: "you are so cool."
Until next week!
Love,
Sister O'Neil
OH WAIT!!! How did I forget. So you know how we're doing "service" at the Hospital? Well in this week's episode: we watched a guy get screws in his arm. Aka.. SURGERY. Seriously...what the random.. Only in Thailand would they invite us into watch a guy get his arm fixed.... Oh Thailand...
LOVE!
Aug 26, 2009
Here I am.
Familia,
(yes, Spanish words DO still pop up in my Thai...)
Just in case you thought something happened because I didn't email yesterday, don't worry. We had to switch our P-days this week because yesterday we had Zone Conference. So here I am now.
Next week for p-day we're going to a place called Aayuttya... It was lots of cool things apparently. It'll be a fun little "T.O." with some other sisters. So Just in case we don't have enough time to email (which I'm sure we'll make time for it, but JUST in case..) don't worry. I'm fine...just on a train somewhere in Thailand. :) This moves our zone is concentrating on service. So for the past 2 weeks, and the next 5, we will be serving for 3 hours each week at a local hospital. OH man, it's so random. I think maybe I told you about it a little last week? Oh no, lies, we hadn't even gone yet. But anyways, yes. While I do love to serve, the two times we've gone, I felt more like they were serving us...The had us do things that easily could have been done by the people standing around (probable cause we were doing their job) and then they feed us too and everything. Plus it's kind funny to see how people react to white people in the hospital. I'm 98% sure they think we're doctors, esp the Elders. We go every Tuesday, which is Pregnant day at the hospital. Seriously...soo many pregnant woman. Sister Wichitrra and I served in the delivery area. No, we didn't help delivery any kids, but we did make cotton swap things (chop stick type sticks that we glued cotton too with elmer's glue). All the women in the room (around 40) had all had their babies in that last 2 days... It made me grateful for our hospitals and heath care.
We're excited about this moves. We have some great potential. Hopefully we'll get ride of this "curse" with the elders. All of their investigators end up being crazies. ( One man tells us he has no brain. Another is this communist Thai guy who dresses like an American Indian...actually he looked pretty awesome, i wish I got a picture with him) But just in the past couple days we're all meet some great people. This one girl (25 years old), Cat, just became an investigator. We meet her on Monday, and last night she came to English class and was all excited about the BOM, told me she read a couple chapters already and even shared one of her favorite scriptures with me. yay! The Lord really does prepare people. The language is getting better everyday too. Just last night I was able to lead the English class (and because it's the basic, we actually speak more Thai than English) by myself and not feel stressed. Things are just becoming FUN now. I mean, they were before, but in comparison to now, this is way better.
We signed a contract for our new house. YAY! That means the first day of next moves (Oct 1) we move. So since I'm pretty sure sister W will be moving on from Bangnaa, that means my new comp will spend her first day moving the whole house. yay! Welcome to Bangnaa.. haha. It's just in time too, our current house is just getting worse. Our air conditioning stopped working for a couple days, but I fixed it. My pencil and sister Wichittra's prayer fixed it, actually. haha. And then, the other day while cleaning dishes we were getting little shocks. Turns out the new pump wasn't put in correctly, had a leak and therefore since we were standing in the water (from the leak) and electricity was running through it, we were getting little shocks. We had them come fix it again, and we discovered the source of the smell (that was also a side affect from the faulty installation). There was so much electricity running through that a poor little frog came over into our back yard and was electrocuted. And died. ("shocking, isn't it.") But don't worry. I've never been in any real harm. Don't worry mom.
Sister Wichittra's Birthday was last Sunday. We celebrated by eating taco's that the elders made. Ok, they're so good at making food.. Does any one have any suggestions for quick, good food that we can make without an oven (aka in the microwave)? (we have a good 3 min, brownie recipe that we love to make sometimes).
Well, my time is up here. I love you all. Thank you again, and always for everything. Take care and enjoy your week!
Love,
Sister O'Neil
or Sister O'Meil... I got a letter from one of sister Wichittra's friend who is serving at Temple square and she calls me that. She wrote "P.S. When did you get your Family name"? It sounds interesting..." I'm not exactly sure what she means, but I'm writing her back " Actually it's "Oatmeal" and it's from my great great grandfather, Quaker. K. Love you. Farewell to Manzanar.
(yes, Spanish words DO still pop up in my Thai...)
Just in case you thought something happened because I didn't email yesterday, don't worry. We had to switch our P-days this week because yesterday we had Zone Conference. So here I am now.
Next week for p-day we're going to a place called Aayuttya... It was lots of cool things apparently. It'll be a fun little "T.O." with some other sisters. So Just in case we don't have enough time to email (which I'm sure we'll make time for it, but JUST in case..) don't worry. I'm fine...just on a train somewhere in Thailand. :) This moves our zone is concentrating on service. So for the past 2 weeks, and the next 5, we will be serving for 3 hours each week at a local hospital. OH man, it's so random. I think maybe I told you about it a little last week? Oh no, lies, we hadn't even gone yet. But anyways, yes. While I do love to serve, the two times we've gone, I felt more like they were serving us...The had us do things that easily could have been done by the people standing around (probable cause we were doing their job) and then they feed us too and everything. Plus it's kind funny to see how people react to white people in the hospital. I'm 98% sure they think we're doctors, esp the Elders. We go every Tuesday, which is Pregnant day at the hospital. Seriously...soo many pregnant woman. Sister Wichitrra and I served in the delivery area. No, we didn't help delivery any kids, but we did make cotton swap things (chop stick type sticks that we glued cotton too with elmer's glue). All the women in the room (around 40) had all had their babies in that last 2 days... It made me grateful for our hospitals and heath care.
We're excited about this moves. We have some great potential. Hopefully we'll get ride of this "curse" with the elders. All of their investigators end up being crazies. ( One man tells us he has no brain. Another is this communist Thai guy who dresses like an American Indian...actually he looked pretty awesome, i wish I got a picture with him) But just in the past couple days we're all meet some great people. This one girl (25 years old), Cat, just became an investigator. We meet her on Monday, and last night she came to English class and was all excited about the BOM, told me she read a couple chapters already and even shared one of her favorite scriptures with me. yay! The Lord really does prepare people. The language is getting better everyday too. Just last night I was able to lead the English class (and because it's the basic, we actually speak more Thai than English) by myself and not feel stressed. Things are just becoming FUN now. I mean, they were before, but in comparison to now, this is way better.
We signed a contract for our new house. YAY! That means the first day of next moves (Oct 1) we move. So since I'm pretty sure sister W will be moving on from Bangnaa, that means my new comp will spend her first day moving the whole house. yay! Welcome to Bangnaa.. haha. It's just in time too, our current house is just getting worse. Our air conditioning stopped working for a couple days, but I fixed it. My pencil and sister Wichittra's prayer fixed it, actually. haha. And then, the other day while cleaning dishes we were getting little shocks. Turns out the new pump wasn't put in correctly, had a leak and therefore since we were standing in the water (from the leak) and electricity was running through it, we were getting little shocks. We had them come fix it again, and we discovered the source of the smell (that was also a side affect from the faulty installation). There was so much electricity running through that a poor little frog came over into our back yard and was electrocuted. And died. ("shocking, isn't it.") But don't worry. I've never been in any real harm. Don't worry mom.
Sister Wichittra's Birthday was last Sunday. We celebrated by eating taco's that the elders made. Ok, they're so good at making food.. Does any one have any suggestions for quick, good food that we can make without an oven (aka in the microwave)? (we have a good 3 min, brownie recipe that we love to make sometimes).
Well, my time is up here. I love you all. Thank you again, and always for everything. Take care and enjoy your week!
Love,
Sister O'Neil
or Sister O'Meil... I got a letter from one of sister Wichittra's friend who is serving at Temple square and she calls me that. She wrote "P.S. When did you get your Family name"? It sounds interesting..." I'm not exactly sure what she means, but I'm writing her back " Actually it's "Oatmeal" and it's from my great great grandfather, Quaker. K. Love you. Farewell to Manzanar.
Aug 21, 2009
Yarrgh!!
Hello again my dearly beloved peps,
Well, another adventurous week done! Last week was filled with joy and randomness. Last week was Moves meeting, and since I wasn't moving Sister W and I got to go and enjoy the game show that was the life of everyone else. The rest of the group from the MTC came and it was soooooo good to see them, Especially the sisters. YAY. we're all togeher again...sort of. Moves meeting day is always long, but this one was fun becasue we all went to a resturant called "Que pasa". It's owned by this american (less active member man, apparently) and it was simply delicious. (I forgot how much I love fresh salsa.. mmmm...yes please!) Going there after Moves is a tradition for the missionaries and now I can see why. Then this past weekend was full of sleepovers, sickness (not me, whew) and traveling. We had 3 other sisters stay with us fo a night, and it was just like a regular old sleepover.. haha. The cobbing ( finishing) sisters needed a place to crash, so we spent the weekend playing host /companions/ travel partners. It was a great experience to learn different technics and phrases from the other sisters. Siser Wichittra's been dealing with some headaches/ throwing up... I think it might be heat exhaustion or something, but we're not sure.. So that gave me some extra study/ organizing time.
Last week after I emailed you, we went back to the church for English class and caught the tail end of the ward activity. It was pretty much my favorite thing to watch ever. They were doing areobics. Everyone out side, music blasting. This one guy "instructing" was just going crazy to his OWN beat (good thing he's a thai boxer and not a dancer.)The people who were not doing areobics (i.e, pregnant women, old man(yes, only one) old women (a few) and people who just showed up) were playing the correct part of peanut gallery. and it was hilarious. I'm pretty sure the whole experience is engrained in my head forever.. especiall Bother A who yelled "sudyaad" at the end... (meaning awesome). Oh it was a good time. This really is a great family ward.
I feel like every week we end up having a theme throughout all our lessons. This week has definitely been Family week. We're read the proclamation to the world with many of our investigators and I'm just excited to see what comes in the next few weeks. Family really is
important. Thank you, Mom and Fawther for being amazing people and strong in the gospel. Your example continual blessings the lives of all your kids, as well as everyone else. I also enjoyed studying about prayer in the scriptures, as well as in True to the Faith (which is awesome, everyone should take a gander at that some time).
Well, Mom- I hope you have a good time with Dad on your little working getaway. Dad= I love you. Jenny, I hope you had fun at camp! (ironic that you had to look for pirate hats, becasue that is also a question I asked this week, as we're doing a pirate themed English Showcase tonight- hence the title of "yarrgh"... just in case you thought i was upset or something... i'm not)). Everyone else- I love you, too! thank you for the letters (Tammie, kellie, etc) (Oh Kellie! I finally DID get those letters you gave to mini-me sister. Yay! thank you. )
Love, Sister O'Neil
Well, another adventurous week done! Last week was filled with joy and randomness. Last week was Moves meeting, and since I wasn't moving Sister W and I got to go and enjoy the game show that was the life of everyone else. The rest of the group from the MTC came and it was soooooo good to see them, Especially the sisters. YAY. we're all togeher again...sort of. Moves meeting day is always long, but this one was fun becasue we all went to a resturant called "Que pasa". It's owned by this american (less active member man, apparently) and it was simply delicious. (I forgot how much I love fresh salsa.. mmmm...yes please!) Going there after Moves is a tradition for the missionaries and now I can see why. Then this past weekend was full of sleepovers, sickness (not me, whew) and traveling. We had 3 other sisters stay with us fo a night, and it was just like a regular old sleepover.. haha. The cobbing ( finishing) sisters needed a place to crash, so we spent the weekend playing host /companions/ travel partners. It was a great experience to learn different technics and phrases from the other sisters. Siser Wichittra's been dealing with some headaches/ throwing up... I think it might be heat exhaustion or something, but we're not sure.. So that gave me some extra study/ organizing time.
Last week after I emailed you, we went back to the church for English class and caught the tail end of the ward activity. It was pretty much my favorite thing to watch ever. They were doing areobics. Everyone out side, music blasting. This one guy "instructing" was just going crazy to his OWN beat (good thing he's a thai boxer and not a dancer.)The people who were not doing areobics (i.e, pregnant women, old man(yes, only one) old women (a few) and people who just showed up) were playing the correct part of peanut gallery. and it was hilarious. I'm pretty sure the whole experience is engrained in my head forever.. especiall Bother A who yelled "sudyaad" at the end... (meaning awesome). Oh it was a good time. This really is a great family ward.
I feel like every week we end up having a theme throughout all our lessons. This week has definitely been Family week. We're read the proclamation to the world with many of our investigators and I'm just excited to see what comes in the next few weeks. Family really is
important. Thank you, Mom and Fawther for being amazing people and strong in the gospel. Your example continual blessings the lives of all your kids, as well as everyone else. I also enjoyed studying about prayer in the scriptures, as well as in True to the Faith (which is awesome, everyone should take a gander at that some time).
Well, Mom- I hope you have a good time with Dad on your little working getaway. Dad= I love you. Jenny, I hope you had fun at camp! (ironic that you had to look for pirate hats, becasue that is also a question I asked this week, as we're doing a pirate themed English Showcase tonight- hence the title of "yarrgh"... just in case you thought i was upset or something... i'm not)). Everyone else- I love you, too! thank you for the letters (Tammie, kellie, etc) (Oh Kellie! I finally DID get those letters you gave to mini-me sister. Yay! thank you. )
Love, Sister O'Neil
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