Transfer!!

Oh I am so glad to write to my family this week!

How is everyone? I had a really lovely batch of letters today from the family, and it pains me that I can't ever write back personally as well as I'd like, but I really want you to know how much I appreciate them, and how much they uplift me : ) спасиба! (Thank you!)

So, I have a lot I want to write today! My companion and I got called by President Allcott Friday night with word that my companion, Sister Zaharova, was getting transferred to Perm. She was really bummed becasue she has been in "Chili" (that's the nickname here) for almost six months, and she has only four weeks left to be in her new city. So, while she got news of that, I got news that my new companion will be Sister Hanson. I freaked out when I heard this becasue Sister Hanson was in the MTC with me (she came in six weeks after me), which means we are BOTH GREEN and I am going to be the SENIOR COMPANION-- AHH!!! Really, I freaked out and am still freaking out writing this. I didn't really understand President at first, I was like "What?". In a lot of ways, most ways, I'm really worried that I can do a good job, and teach the people like they deserve to be taught. And, I'm worried that the members won't trust me, that I'll get lost beyond finding, that I'll say something stupid (that will happen, already has : ) ). This is my greenie area still, so the members still view me as a baby missionary.

But, after worrying like I do, I went to Church yesterday and told the members the news, and they were so supportive of me! They all promised to come on hard appointments with me, and to teach me any Russian words that I am having problems with. I felt so relieved! And so grateful. I'm studying the map of the city like crazy, and studying the language in every free second that I can. Most importnantly though, I have felt a lot of peace about this coming transfer. When I got word, I was shocked, but at the same time, I felt like I needed this challenge, or that I wanted it in a weird way. My last two transfers I had a native companion, so I felt like I could coast a lot. I felt like I wanted and needed to do more. This pressure will be really good for me, and it will teach me to rely on the Lord more, which is something that I am always wanting to be better at.

I said a prayer Friday night and committed to the Lord that I would do my best, and that I would always try to follow the Spirit. It was very touching, and I felt a lot of reassurance. I realize now more than ever that this really is His work, and that He will be with me. I know that I WILL be able to do this, which is good to know : ) But, I can only do this with the Lords help.

My Zone Leader told me that as long as I'm obedient, work hard, and trust in the Lord, my mouth will be opened and things will be ok. I already know this, but it's good to hear. So, all in all, I'm really excited for this new challenge, and Sister Hanson is awesome! Before that all starts though, I am going on Visa Trip this week. I will go on Wed. morning to Yekat, work there all day Thurs. with the Sisters there, and then we leave early Friday morning to Finland. And....drumroll.... we have time to go to the TEMPLE! Woohoo! I feel like this Visa Trip couldn't come at a better time for me. It will be really refreshing to go to the Temple, and also, I think I get to travel with my MTC companions. So, If feel a little spoiled that I get to do this, my Russian comp never goes on Visa Trip, but I am also grateful for the little rest. We get back Sunday, Monday is P-Day, and then the real work will start Tuesday of next week. So, I'll get to even write you again before my next transfer really starts, but please keep me in your prayers this week!

Leza from the family we reactivated was baptized on Saturday. The whole family came out, and there were a little bit of tears. I was surprised when I became emotional when she got in the water to be baptized. I love the family so much, and I felt a lot of joy for them. Meesa, Carrie, and whoever else, the little girl is totally a muffin! You guys would just giggle and giggle over her. She is so cute. We went to their house Sunday night for one last lesson with Sister Z. I think they'll miss her a lot, and again, I felt a lot of responsibility for this family to stay strong, but they seem so solid right now. I'll miss teaching them with Sister Z., and I'm afraid I won't be able to help them like they deserve and need, but again, it's in the Lord's hands : ) I'm running short on time today, but I have pictures I want to send you soon from both baptizms. Love you all tons, and I'll talk to you next Monday! Thanks for all you do!

Sister Hakes

P.S. Mom, I haven't seen the garments or the Ward package. Maybe when I'm in Yekat I will see them in the Office there? I'll make sure and check. Yes, I need more meds soon, sorry you have to keep sending little things like that! I appreciate it sooooo much!

You're the best.