Okay, it took a little longer than we anticipated, but we're back. The reason why we didn't get back last night was because we were at Presidente's house practicing a number we're going to sing at a special reunião [conference] on Thursday. We are going to sing a really pretty arrangement of Come Thou Fount (me, Sister Petersen! and one of the assistants, and another Elder) with some words in English some in Portuguese. We are going to hear from Elder Clayton, it should be pretty great.

                                                                                            

Familinha e Amiguinhos, [Family & Friends]

This past week was, full. We had two days of Sister Ferreira giving her goodbyes, and then we had a Sisters' training, and then a stake dance, and a crazy Sunday morning.

First of all, the goodbyes: Sister Ferreira really loved this ward, and so we passed by a LOt of people, ate a LOt of goodbye cake, and got the idea of the transition fully established in our heads. We all went to Salvador, to President's house to have a lovely conference with the Sisters, and a few short-term Sisters that are from within the boundaries of the mission, but will only stay 1-2 transfers, just to help out. It was lovely. Sister Vecchi takes such good care of us. The biggest thing I took away was [?]

The story of the stake dance has a little foreward involved. So, I'm pretty sure I've mentioned that we're teaching the family of Estandislau and Angela . . . and their 7 kids (Clea 19, Cleane 17, Cleonilton 16, Cleidiane 14, Cleiton 12, and Cleidinice 3 - and the oldest son Josias 21 we still haven't met.) They are a little milagre [miracle, wonder] from heaven. At Stake Conference last week, the Stake Young Women's President met the family, and really wanted them to go to the stake dance. Try as we might, we could not find a ride . . . so we went along and made contacts in front of the church. They had a really, really good time, and they are progressing really well. We are able to work a lot with the ward to help this family really have some growth and receive the blessings. They are rather wonderful. Sister Smart was rather taken aback by the faith of the family, and it's true, they have suffered quite a bit, and have great desires to do what is right. 

Also, Sister Smart is marvelous, (Mom- she's a mix of Katie-Sue and Hilary Barker). She's from Twin Falls, Idaho and has a year on the mission. She has a really nice spirit about her, and I am feeling really great about the work for this next transfer.

If you could please pray for our little family this next week, I know it would make a difference. I am so grateful for the Holy Spirit that really does confirm truths. It truly is the greatest gift the Lord can give us. I am grateful for the promises I have made with the Lord that help me to feel this peace everyday. It is incredible.

love, love, love,

Sister Cornwall