The last weekend

It's the final countdown. 5 days!

I probably should have watched less Hart of Dixie this past week and prepared my talk instead. In true Leann Allred fashion, I waited until the last minute to finish it. But you better believe it'll wake up the sacrament nappers. I think...

My baby sister is getting baptized today. I'm so proud of her decision and can't wait to watch her come up out of the water as a member of the church. I'll be giving the talk on the Holy Ghost, and not gunna lie... I'm slightly scared. This is the first time I have ever had to speak on a gospel topic in front of people. Good practice for the next 18 months haha. 

My Mom's parents are coming into town today. They are amazing. They're from Arizona and without fail, they have been to every graduation, baptism and wedding in our family. I'm so happy to have them in my life and appreciate all they have done to help our family. I even get to do a temple session with them while they are here. 

Since my Mom is moving to Nevada when she gets married next week, I not only have to pack my mission stuff, but my entire life. My high school box, first pointe shoes, tea set, the whole shebang. Now to find a place to put it all... 

I'm so tired of packing... 

// Hermana Allred

Me Gusta Provo

I have been informed by my Stake President that I will be going to the Provo MTC on April 24th instead of flying straight to the MTC in Peru. My Visa still hasn't shown up, but I'm hoping it will while I'm in Provo.

Like I said before, the news isn't too upsetting. I would love to be in Peru, but no matter where I am, I'm doing the Lord's work. And maybe receiving cupcakes from the Cocoa Bean... This is the only time in my life so far where I've had a valid excuse to gain lots of weight, so lay on the junk food.

This week has been really tough emotionally. I underestimated how much Satan knows about my weaknesses. He has been working his hardest to keep me home. Bad news, Satan. I'm going on a flippin mission and I'm going to teach a lot of people and pet a lot of llamas and probably get a parasite from all the food I'll be forced to eat, and most likely get a flesh eating disease from petting said llamas. Worth it? Absolutely.

One more week. I can do it.

If you would like to come to my farewell talk, it's this Sunday at 9:00 AM. The address is 1176 N 730 E in Pleasant Grove, Utah. I would love to see you all there.

Love,

Hermana Allred

Two weeks until the MTC

According to the travel office in Salt Lake City and various Peru bound missionary blogs, it is unlikely that any of us will be getting our visas in time for our departure. It's not official, but i'm gearing up to spend at least a few weeks at the Provo MTC.

I'm not too bummed, you see. This way, I can get letters faster, and *hint hint* people can send me treats. Maybe even same day delivery of Cafe Rio?

Also, if I'm going to cry, I'd rather it be in good ol' Utah than on a 12 hour flight. I don't have a cute cry face. Kim Kardashian feels my pain.

Okay I'm a little bummed... but whatever happens is what is supposed to happen and I will love it no matter what. Even if I get sent to burn to death in Arizona while I wait. (No offense to Arizona. It's just too hot.)

Does anyone else notice how flippin annoying Satan is? I sure do. I'm fine one minute, then he pokes the part of my brain that has been repressing sadness and hurt. RUDE! Don't worry. I have God on speed dial. He's bailed me out a lot recently.

I made a few rules for myself to make sure my mission is fully experienced.

1// I will not leave early no matter what. (only exceptions: My own death, severe medical complications, and/or Machu Picchu ends up being an alien landing site and I get beamed up to their spaceship)

2// I will love every single one of my companions and try to learn as much as possible from them.

3// I will really learn Spanish. Not just enough to get by.

4// I will teach with love, not with force.

5// I will be present. This is a once in a lifetime experience. I don't want to waste time wishing I were home.

6// I will take lots of pictures.

Chau

//Hermana Allred