Mission Call Opening Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-hEo2BTlYs

Although this is definitely not my most attractive moment, I thought I would post the video of me opening my mission call. I had to wait SIX long hours before I could open it. I was so nervous that I was going to be selfish when I opened it and be bummed about where I was called. However, the excitement and reality of actually reading my call trumped any selfish feelings. I am so excited to serve and teach the people of Southern California. I never would have thought I'd be going to California, let alone Southern California, but it feels so right. I have a little less than three months until I report to the Provo Missionary Training Center.

I am so grateful that I was able to have my family and friends with me that night (some were on google hangout). I feel very fortunate to have the support of those around me. Opening my call was a definite confirmation to me that I am making the right decision by serving a mission. I hope and pray that I will be able to invite many to learn of and come unto Jesus Christ. I'm so excited!

I can serve at 19?

So I thought I would write a little bit about why I am serving a mission and how this came about. A little over two months ago I was at my grandma's house getting reading and watching the Saturday morning session of General Conference. President Thomas S. Monson began to talk and then he turned his thoughts towards missionary work. He then announced that boys can now serve at 18 and girls at 19. I immediately started to cry as I knew this meant my life could change--and change soon. And boy did it ever. I wanted to make sure I wasn't making any rash decisions, but I received so many small and quiet promptings that serving a mission is something I needed to do. I quickly completed my papers and received my call on November 14 to the California Riverside Mission, English speaking. I've always sort of thought I would serve a mission, yet serving at 21 never sounded right. I am so grateful for this opportunity to serve the people of Southern California. I know the road ahead of me will be bumpy, but I know that it will be a wonderful and rewarding18 month ride.