Hermana Urban

2009-09-28T18:52:00.002-06:00

Refer to this now:
www.elissasbug.blogspot.com
gracias

walking off the plane

2009-09-08T13:10:00.003-06:00

Final Pictures her last day in Argentina!! Flying home today!

2009-08-31T09:57:00.004-06:00

A final quick note from her final e-mail from Argentina

2009-08-24T21:27:00.005-06:00

I will be forever ever ever ever grateful for this experience and for those that made it possible. But it wasn´t for me. It was for the Lord.

so this is all i will say for now.

Hermana Urban

8 days left

2009-08-23T07:53:00.005-06:00

Hermana Urban has 8 days left. You know in any other situation it might seem like a nice trip to a foreign land. Considering that she has been there 18 months 8 days is nothing. I loved her last posting that she has so much to do with so little time. We have heard of other missionaries called to this part of the world so the work will continue there and it will continue here! If you are interested in a Denver greeting airport party... please let me know Jim@HomeReferralTeam.net

P.S. The reason for the time expired is she is slightly after 18 months and she is still there :)

Loving Every Minute

2009-08-18T05:20:00.000-06:00

First off, a happy welcome to the twenties to Kendra!!!

Second off, the wind was insane the other day!! We were riding the good ol´ bikes against the wind on a LONG dirt road. Gotta love campo. But this is the problem: We wear skirts!!! haha! so we had to ride our bikes standing (not seated, yeah?) we were in a hurry so we were trying to make good time. It was quite the trip and I loved it!!! haha. If I worked anything off, don´t worry I ate plently the next day. Jorge invited us and some other peeps to go to his house and have lunch. He goes to a cooking class and is a really good cook. He made home made noodles with sauce and emanadas. And then Hermana Eva made an insane desert, with cream. So we passed lunch together and it is soooooooo great to see Jorge sooooooo happy.

Bueno, nada mas.

Things are great, I am still in love with monte and the people. There just isn´t enough time to do all we want to do.

But we are serving and loving the people.

Hermana Urban

2 weeks home bound...

2009-08-16T18:46:00.002-06:00

As much as we want Elissa to focus on her last little bit in Argentina we can't help to think about how soon she will be back. We are so excited for her honorable mission and how we allowed her to give up 18 months of her life for people we never have met. Well, it isn't giving up anything! It has made us realize more than ever that life isn't about making money...it is about our friends, family, neighbors and the people we work and associate with and serving these people by informing them about Heavenly Father and helping him fulfill his plan. Just as this picture of this plane is a blur her mission has gone by in a flash. Whenever you think about the past 18 months and her being gone it has seemed like such a long time. Now that we are almost looking back it has flown by. Sincerely, Elissa's Dad

Are We Excited to have Elissa Back soon??!!

2009-08-12T19:07:00.003-06:00

I'm sure you can only guess? If you had a smart, courageous and pretty young daughter who took 18 months out of her life to spread the most important message in the world today...how would you feel? Would you feel proud? Would you feel scared? Would you feel happy? Would you feel timid? Would you feel excited? Would you feel humble? Would you worried? Would you feel ecstatic? All I can say is we here in our home have felt these and more. Elissa will be home in about 17 days and just in time to meet her new nephew! Bethany her sister is having a baby just about the same time Elissa gets home on September 1st 2009.

The Urban's

Life's challenges can lead to testimonies of our Savior...22 days left in Argentina!

2009-08-10T20:48:00.012-06:00

Look at what Irma made for me!!!
warm cozy stockings!!

This is me with the lemon tree outside of my porch. I Love Monte.

This is a man with style if I knew anyone.

Marta teaching us, the relief society how to make
home-made noodles. DELICIOUS!!

(sorry sometimes i rather have the pics talk instead of me typing lots)

so here is a little story:

We found this great married couple. They are in their 50-60s and in Argentine years that is a little older then in US years. (my own opinion) So anyway, they are progressing and have goals to get baptized. Marta, the wife, is hilarious. But yesterday she was acting like a completly different person. throwing things, yelling, just going crazy. She told her husband to leave the room because she wanted to talk to us alone. I was like ". . . ah . . .what to do ?. . . " Julio, her husband, peacfully left the room and she told us that the spirit of his 1st wife has control over her body. And she wants help. But, honestly she was 2 different people yesterday. We talked about the priesthood a little bit and left her with a prayer. And after that she was normal marta again. The thing that is crazy - is that is not the first time I have seen or heard about these types of things while on the mission. We talk with so many people, get into so many peoples lives that MY life will never be the same.

But the church is true.

hermana urban

quench not the spirit

2009-08-03T10:44:00.003-06:00

So we were traveling by trains to zone conference. And me and another hermana decided that we wanted to sing some hymns for the people doing their daily travel. So we did while our comps talked with the people. The trains can be a little hectic and me and me comp were separated. I, with the other hermanas, got off on our stop. But my companion didn´t. SO we had to wait for her to come back - while we waited we took pics in this cool graffiti place.

Me and the comp Hermana Delgado at Zone conference.

Baptism of Jorge!! He was soo happy and got up to bore his testimony during sacrament meeting. Yay for him!

and Gaston trying to stay warm by the heater. awesome.

As for updates:

Andres and Silivia are sill amazing!! Yesterday they shared with us their testimonies of the blessings they have received from the gospel. They are truly an amazing family, that has a strong desire to be an eternal family. Siliva has some document issues and wasn´t able to vote and is unable to make a date to get married. So the process will take a little longer but they are doing real good.

Hugo continues with his many many doubts. He was actually in the hospital for 10 days and we couldn´t talk with him. But he still has a huge desire to understand the mysteries of God. I am actually typing in the ciber that he owns. We are gonna keep him in our prayers.

Well love you all. Things are good. We are finding new people everyday. And Janelle, I too found a bike!!!! YAY!!!!

here is a scripture I feel in love with this morning: ! Thessalonians 5:19 "Quench not the spirit" - How is Paul SOOO genius?? oh maybe because he was a prophet. But he still impresses me.

your hermanita Urban

angels : july 27

2009-08-03T10:38:00.005-06:00

I am spending most of my internet time trying to send ya´ll photos so I hope this is successful.

We went to the temple as a branch and it was GREAT! We had investigators come. We stayed outside with some people and whilst in the waiting area I got out my new coloring books (thanks to the best mom in the whole wide world). There was a huge group of kids and toddlers all dressed in white waiting to be sealed to their families. I cannot explain it but for one minute I saw "it." I saw and understood in my mind God´s plan for us. And I wanted everyone to have it as well. But anyway amongst the coloring a little girl/angel came up to me, found my colored pencils and started drawing. sooooo cute!

A recent convert Rosa saw and entered the temple for the first time as well. She did baptisms. and her granddaughter who comes to church every Sunday also came with us. We are big buds. I love her lots.

Temple trip. Super fun.

I heart the Young Women!!! (and Lisa Runyon!!!!)

New Vintage dress. FUN!

who doesn´t want to lick the frosting of REAL chocolate home goodness by Hermana Asay?!

agency

2009-07-20T22:28:00.001-06:00

So I have been thinking a lot about the whole agency issue.

Preach My Gospel says I have the responsibility to teach powerfully and clearly enough that the people can make their own decisions. So, as a missionary, we study the scriptures, live on a higher level of standards, serve others, and pray for the best. We do these things so we can teach powerfully and have the spirit help us. But nothing interferes with their decisions; they still have the right to choose to accept the gospel or not.

So in Monte right now our investigators are at that point. Decision making time. So keep them in your prayers and I will keep living worthily to help them out.

Today was transfer meeting and this American man came up to me saying “sister urban, I have something for you!” and happy surprise hand delivered from my Grandma Clonts. YOU ARE THE BEST!!! I shared some cookies and now I am really popular! I am going to smell even better with some great new body wash. I am soooo excited. Thanks sooooo much for the love!!

Also I got a great package from the young women!!! Also got more popular with sharing. And mom the dress= I love. Only thing I need to lose some mission weight.

Hermana Ingoldsby is going to train a new missionary this transfer! She is going to be an amazing trainer.

Well, anyway, I love you all and hope all is well. Thanks for the support and love and prayers and faith.

Hermana Urban

Really Neat Stuff....read this post!

2009-07-14T20:06:00.005-06:00

Pictures:

I am crazy and made a little card for Michael Jackson. I have been distraught, Irma's baptism, and Monte is full of cowboys

Today we got a letter from Sister Urban's Mission President. It says... I am pleased to inform you that your daughter, Sister Elissa Marie Urban, has served faithfully in the Buenos Aires Mission and will complete that mission honorably on 8/31/2009.

It has been a pleasure to have Sister Urban serve in this mission. I have enjoyed my association with a missionary who exemplifies such fine qualities and personal attributes. I have seen her mature spiritually as a result of her constant, unselfish service. Without a doubt, this mission has helped Sister Urban enhance her ability to positively relate to companions and fellow church members. Truly, she has been an excellent representative of Jesus Christ, and we thank you for having sustained her in this mission.

Thank you for your efforts in preparing a young woman such as Sister Urban to be asuccessful missionary.

We as parents were of course honored to have such a letter sent to us today. She has 45 days left... as we know that will go fast and it's letters like this that show us that she really was meant to go and made a difference in many lives.

The pictures were just sent to us...enjoy Jim & Susan

These Are The Children of the World...Hermana Urban is teaching...

2009-07-06T20:26:00.003-06:00

These are some pictures from a couple of weeks ago...a little late but still fun to look at.

So a fun little info: This great amazing lady that I was teaching a year ago got married and baptized this week!!! After a year she was able to get her documents from Paraguay and get married to her boyfriend (who is member) and then baptized - along with her daughter!!! I LOVE THIS!!!! I am hearing great success stories from other areas that I have served in and it just goes to show that the Lord allows His work to progress. no matter what.

So I am sure you all know that there is this crazy sickness swiping the land. Rosmeri has been working a lot (seeing how she is a nurse and all). so it has been tough to get to her. But people have been super worried and distraught about this flu that a lot of stores and places are closed or only open to a limited number of people. You have to wait to enter stores and you can only enter if you are going to buy. So what makes it all even more crazy is that we have cancelled church for 3 weeks. Yesterday we didn´t go. and that was weird.

When we aren´t traveling for meetings we are running around like crazy because we are visiting so many people! I love it!! We will have more men in the branch soon because the majority of the people we are teaching are men. so that will be great because the branch is about 3/4 women.

well that is all i will say. keep letters coming. did i not tell you that I extended my mission by 6 months?? SO if you are thinking you can get by without writing - you are wrong!!!

Love
hermana urban

so bueno!!!

2009-07-01T22:11:00.003-06:00

First off: Rest in peace the king of pop. tears.

Second off: Every night I went to bed and every morning I woke up sooooo excited for this area and the things are are going on in the very special place of Monte.

We were walking one night to find a lady that I taught a long time ago who moved. As we were walking I thought in my little head I KNOW that there are thousands of people searching and aching for guidance and want some truth in their lives - in the area of MONTE. But I have the great task to try to FIND these people. We came to a door, knowing that it was not her door but thinking we could ask for directions, a man answered the door and he had no idea where she lived. But what do we do?? We start talking to him. So he was interested in how were are missionaries and spread the word of God to the people. yup . . . to the people. haha. He invited us in. Ok a rule of the mission, aka from the Lord, is that we are not to be alone in the house with one man. SO I said no (in my mind) and what came out was "Bueno." - same thing happened with my companion. But let me tell you one thing: I have never jamas in my entire mission met someone who is actually searching, wants, desires to know the truth, to know about God and the reality of Him. He is completely sincere with his search. We talked with him about what we share and teach and then HE decides. He has to put his faith to the max and ask God if what we share is true. He wants to know sooooo bad but he doubts even his own faith. I, personally, think he has amazing faith. Faith always leads us to action. His actions are listening, meditating, praying, reading, investigating, etc. His faith is helping him learn. And that is great faith. I also personally feel that he has already received an answer that the Book of Mormon is true. If it is true - that means that God does really does love us and talk to us today!! SO it really depends on that answer. so we are gonna help him recognize that. Ok but then we went again, this time with a member, and it was GREAT!!!! wow I just cannot stop being amazed by him. AND THEN . . . on his own amazing faith he came to church!!!!!!!! He is the owner of the tennis courts in Monte and it is open always, but on Sunday the country voted and stores had to be closed. So he used his free time and came to church - and stayed for Irma's Baptism!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

So everyone, seriously, put Hugo in your prayers.

And Irma got baptized!! And it was adorable b/c apparently not all of her hair went under the water and when someone mentioned that she was like: "well that's bc I have a lot, ok!" I don't know I just loved it.

Also we had an amazing lesson with Andres and Silvia and the family. We read "The Proclamation" and WHOA that thing is powerful and wonderfully true. Then we (with the help of a member) set a marriage goal. Meaning that if all works out wonderfully we will have a wedding and baptisms in August!!!! And then a temple sealing in a year. This is not a family of 5, this is a family of 8, and to be able to be with those little babies that they lost, they must keep those eyes on the temple.

Mommy and daddy happy anniversary!! I am glad that we are an eternal family!!!!

Scott- your letter changed my life!!! Thanks sooooo much (I also read it to one of my friends and she loved it to)

Saren- I LOVED YOUR PKG of love and warmth and sarenness. I love you to death too!!

Matthew Case- I am awful for not writing. but as soon as I am in utah = you and I and that wonderful David Bowie movie of Labyrinth.

Rachel Andrus- congrats with the baby coming!!! I am so proud and amazed of your selfless service to be a mom. whoa.

Katy- I hope you are adjusting well!

Ok loves to all!

Hermana Urban

ps. oh also- Farrah Fawcett - sad as well. but I told Hermano Eva, sweet member, that dad always loved her and then he said probably because I look like her (which is weird because she clearly was 20 when I wasn't on this planet) and now he is calling me by "Farrah."

Oh Argentines.

onward

2009-06-17T11:00:00.003-06:00

We walk lots in Monte, have I told you that? So I am hoping to get some bikes real soon. And then I will be one of those bike missionaries. Yes!

So things went well this week and we ended with week with stake conference. We traveled as a branch to the stake center to watch a broadcast just for Argentina. It was really great because Andres, Silvia and their 3 kids came!!! I was soooo happy!!! But they left earlier than everyone else so I haven’t been able to talk to them about it. I am pretty sure that everyone should pray for them.

Patience is an attribute that I have yet to master. But with patience I know that as long as I am working super hard and doing my best the Lord will do the rest. I know that Monte is just a little tiny branch but I also know that it has huge potential. So I will keep at it and then maybe 15 – 20 years down the road we will hear how huge the ward is in Monte! (my dream).

I love ya`ll.

Hermana Urban

Mates

2009-06-11T10:38:00.005-06:00

Irma in her house. which was actually her parents house. lots of history.

On Thursday the elders came to our area to interview Irma for baptism. We went to her house to pick her up but she wasn´t there. WHAT?? So we tried to search a little bit but she was just no where in sight. This has never happen before. So we were a little worried. It turns out that she was in the hospital. She hasn´t been feeling very good lately so it was a good thing that she went to see a doctor. After we sent the elders home and continued on with our day we decided that it would be better to move her baptismal date so she could rest and feel better about it. When we found her in her house we talked with her and shared a scripture, she said the prayer. Ok the most amazing feeling ever comes when you hear people pray. Her prayer came directly from her humble heart strings and was filled with how grateful she is for the opportunity to get baptized and continue in her faith in Christ through living the gospel. I feel really good about her baptismal date now and everything will be good.

So today is transfers. Hermana Gatica is off to the coast and I am staying in Monte for my fourth transfer. I feel like my name should be on the member list. I love it though.

My new companion is from Peru. Her name is hermana Delgado. Wish us luck!

I love this work. It is the Lord´s, not mine. I am just amazed that He would let me be a part of it.

Besitos.

Hermanita Urban

more lives touched this week!

2009-06-06T11:49:00.002-06:00

Well I have already used half on my Internet time doing I don’t know what. I am enjoying some delicious Helado. It is officially June and the cold has only begun. I already have my thermals, wool tights and thick socks on. Our little Monte house is actually quite big and we have a heater at the bottom of the stairway, thus all the hot air is trapped in the stairway. Who lives on the stairs? I do.

The area is really getting on its feet and it has been amazing to see the progress. It is on the brink of exploding. But still patience is a very important virtue. ¿no?

There are ten people working towards baptism, there is definitely work going on in Monte. But the best things ever are the visits themselves. I love visiting people and bringing the gospel into their homes. Families start unifying and love starts growing.

Andres and Siliva and their kids are doing the simple things that count. Ie: praying together, reading the scriptures together and helping one another out. So that is pretty exciting. They will only have more of the Spirit of Lord in their home.

Rosmeri and Nicolas are adorable and I love and care for them so much that I honestly get nervous when teaching them. Mostly because I just want them to love the gospel.

(I am going to try to take more pictures of people in their homes and what not)

So, the owner of our house is also a member of the church for many many years. Her parents were pioneers in Monte. She has been inactive in the gospel for many many years. Her husband, who has no belief in God, has been smoking since he was 13 years old and is now in the hospital. So it is sad. I love Vivian so much. She is such a great women and I feel so helpless, as I am sure she does. I really think that God is sending her signs. Just as he does. He shows us our weaknesses so we can be made strong. So she is struggling but putting on her happy face. Remember when I first came to Monte and I went to a funeral?? It was her Mom. The great thing is that the missionaries live right next door. She told us that she loves to see us because she sees Good. Something good.

Another less active, after singing a hymn, told us how beautiful it is that we are in the gospel, that we have this joy and that we have that spirit of goodness with us.

The gospel is good. It is simple as that.

Pray for the peeps here.

Hermanita Urban

Busy-Busy...work hard play hard!

2009-05-24T09:56:00.002-06:00

Elissa's Dad here...I have been noticing that Elissa really is doing a good job of leading. The best example of a leader is one who keeps moving forward in the work. Then when it comes time to play...you exceed expectations there too. Keep up the work and the play Elissa! Here is her letter:

The weeks keep going and we keep working.

We had another busy week of teaching, helping, and running around like crazies. But its all good.

I absolutely love our investigators. They are great and progressing beautifully in the gospel. Honestly, hands down the best part of missionary work is seeing people bring purpose in their lives. I have always had this purpose but I know that millions don´t. But they should have it - so I am willing to help them find it.

Rosmeri and her son Nicolas (that I have a crush on, 11years old) came to church and LOVED IT!!! I am sooo excited for them to have the gospel in their lives. But guess what?? With the gospel nothing becomes easier . . . actually it (life in general) becomes harder. seriously. That is why it is soooo important that we have a strong foundation on Jesus Christ. It is NOT easy and I will be the first one to admit it. If you don't believe me - try it.

We had a futbol tournament today and thus I am writing today. sorry about the confusion.

Sorry this letter is soo lame. I am super exhausted and we have a long travel ahead of us.

La HermanaUrban

goodness

2009-05-11T22:11:00.005-06:00

(2 letters posted today- one from this week and one from last week.)

We had an amazing week here in Monte. We taught a bunch. Rosa spoke in church about faith. I loved a part in her talk where she said that her faith helped her get baptized, but her faith won’t stay in the font, she has to continue coming to church and reading her scriptures to nourish her faith. YOu GO GiRL!

Andres and Siliva and their 2 of their kids came to church!! They came super late and I was on the brink of tears thinking they weren´t going to come. But then all of sudden they walked in and I was sooooo happy. I think they were a little surprised at my reaction when I saw them!! It is a HUGE blessing to see families learn about the gospel.

As for Rosmeri and her kids- they are progressing beautifully and even though they couldn’t come to church, they want to learn about the gospel and want to know how to do what God has in store for us.

We also found two men and gave them the goal of getting baptized. Now they have to ask God to see if that is what He wants them to do. Ask and ye shall receive, right?

I loved chatting with some of ya´ll yesterday!! Happy Mothers Day!! And Happy Birthday Grandpa!!! I love you. I wanted to call Grandma and Grandpa Urban and Grandma and Grandpa Clonts but my phone card ran out mid-sentence with Casey. Lame-o.

2 little school boys are sitting next to me yelling out their plans of attack while they are playing some computer game-thing. Haha I just took a pic.

Hermana Urban

The rebels without a cause:

I had ice cream while I typed today. If I stopped eating this delicious gift I would probably loose some of this extra mission skin that I have.

Me in one of my favorite places in Monte. These ladies have art classes and paint all day and listen to cool music. I love it!!! So I finally went in today-

Fall! 5.4.09

2009-05-04T19:26:00.000-06:00

Saludos a todos.

Things are good. Fall is here and can I say how much I love it??! I have been walking around with my camera taking pictures of the trees. The smell, the colors, the scarfs – I love it all!!!!

OTOÑO!!!

I am currently reading the Bible in my personal study and I am just RIVETED with how amazing and interesting it is. WOW!! I cannot get enough of it. I love to read it like a book and then I love to completely dive in and search different parts of it to deepen the goods. Reading it has also made me realize how little I know about God, but it only gives me more drive to understand more.

So here is a little story:

Saturday, randomly, we found out that Rosmeri and the little guys were moving to the other side of town to a nicer home. So basically, it has taken such a long time to get in contact with them since she has been soooooo busy. Understandable. So we stop by to see if she will need help with the move and all. She said that her ex-husband and 3 other men were going to come. We decided to call some people anyway. We called Miguel, this stud recent convert, who never ceases to amaze me. He came directly over. Nobody else that we talked to could come. So anyway, Rosmeri´s husband ends up calling saying that he wasn´t able to come. Which left the 2 missionaries and Miguel and the fam. But I, being a little bit of an overachiever and worrier, run over (with the comp of course) to a menus activo, the oldest son of the branch president. He was just about to leave his apartment as his Mom (RS pres) and we run up. I don´t know how it happened but the timing was amazing. We asked if they could help and they both jumped on it. We arrived at the house and loaded stuff in the truck.

Rosmeri, Fernando, Judith and Nicolas were so happy and thrilled to have some help.

I cannot express how happy I was! A recent covert, menus activo, investigators and members and missionaries just helping someone out. I LOVE SERVICE!

Everyone was so happy and content.

And it also gave us a moment to chat with Hermana Orellano who has been going through some challenges.

I am convinced that when we are willing to do the Lord´s will, He will just work everything out through us. We just have to be willing and then all of a sudden we will realize: “I did nothing, but wow, good things happened and I know it's because God is in charge.”

Mom, I covered my agenda with the wrappers from the Dove Chocolates you sent me. So now I have these feel-good messages to look at.

KEN AND AMY!!! I got the CD and listen to it EVERY second I can get. I love it. And my chilean companion is singing along now too! Thanks soooooooo much.

I love you all. I am gonna go out and enjoy this Fall weather. (are you jealous?)

Hermana Urban

Ps WHERE IN THE WORLD DID MOTHERS DAY COME OUT OF?? I just chatted with ya´ll. I will call this Sunday.

This is me as a brunette:

This is me and my comp in this sweet gaucho store:

MONICA INGOLDSBY!!!! you are the best!! I love your daughter!!!! and yummy chocolate:

promises

2009-04-27T16:40:00.002-06:00

We keep working hard in Monte. We have little miracles daily, so I cannot complain.

On Saturday we had a branch activity!! YAY!!! we went to Rosa´s house and painted the outside. It was great. I will send some sweet pics next week. But Rosa was so grateful. She said the closing prayer at church yesterday and just about broke down with gratitude for the service that the members did. It was a such a fun afternoon and we had a ton of investigators that came too.

I also directed a girls choir in the Primary. SO fun!! Actually only one out of the 4 girls is a member of the church. So it was great for the girls and their families to see them sing and participate. I think it would be the hardest thing ever to be a little girl and not have the gospel. So I am happy to help these 3 little girls actually KNOW who they are; which is a child of God . . . someone very special.

We were unable to teach Rosmeri and kids this week. So hard to find them all together sometimes. But I am going to keep my faith and keep working.

Well I love you all and hope all is well. Keep the faith. God loves you. Trust Him and the miracles will happen. I promise.

Hermanita Urban

No Rest...the work must go on

2009-04-21T06:15:00.005-06:00

Well my dears,

Just another week in paradise. The work doesn´t get easier, my bag gets heavier, 6:30 am never feels like a restful time; but the spirit grows, the lights that were once dimmed in peoples faces becomes brighter again and it makes it worth it.

After a very worriedly week for me, concerning Rosmeri and kids, I feel better about it. We had a good little lesson how the only way we can know the things about God is to ask the big guy ourselves. So I will continue to pray that they pray.

Today, hence the reason why I am writing later then the usual, we had a Noche de Hogar (Family Home Evening) with Family Orellano. They are the coolest. Pres Orellano, after 8 months of being a member of the church become the president of the branch and has held that position for 12 years. His kids are the only youth and I basically love them. Here is a pic of us playing a sweet game . . . these are the kind of parties I go to currently. Don´t even worry about it.

Also today we stayed in Monte (which I love to do) for our Pday. Other hermanas from our Zone came and we had an Asado (bbq). I made a salad like we know it: Lettuce, carrots, and other veggies, also some grapes. The other girls thought I was crazy and were hesitant to try it. But I enjoyed some actual fruitage and vegage. Because it doesn´t exist in the diet the other days of the week.

Cyber: I am currently listening to "my heart will go on" translated to Spanish. Keep rocking you cyber sound system.

Chow

Hermanita Urban

from elissa on april 13th

2009-04-18T13:45:00.004-06:00

Divisions . . . oh and the Luna and the Laguna in Monte:

I went to visit an investigator who just so happened to be with a recent convert. We taught the plan of salvation. The real milagro of all of this is that the daughter of the recent convert, Diana, sat and talked with us. We have been wanted to teach her for 4 months. She heard a testimony from Hermana Eva about how she will be able to be with her child in the heavens that died as a baby. Diana just recently lost her baby and has worried that this baby will go to hell because he wasn't baptized. Through the charla she felt the spirit telling her that she will be able to be with her baby again. Everyone benefited from the lesson. The members, the recent convert, our investigator, Diana, and me! yay!!

chow.

Hermanita Urban

General Conference

2009-04-08T07:12:00.006-06:00

The San Miguel de Monte Branch of Buenos Aires Argentina travel to the stake center to watch conference. Hermana Urban and Hermana Gatica from Chile greet people as they enter.

Pray For Families...

2009-04-06T20:59:00.002-06:00

Elissa's Dad here...don't you love how Elissa always says "Pray For Families" at the end of her letters... isn't it nice to know that she recognizes how important families are! The family is becoming a lost and troubled unit. Save the family because it is ordained from God for here and the here after...

Here is Hermana's letter:

“Scripture itself points . . away from itself and to the Fact that final and true authority belongs to God himself” N Wright, New Testament Scholar. Thinking about that statement has made me realize more and more how much I must rely on my Father in Heaven. The scriptures are great. We feel great when we read them because the feelings come directly from someone in the heavens watching over us. But scripture makes us turn to the Lord; in prayer, in mediation.

I try to turn more to God little by little, day by day. Because He is the ultimate source of knowledge. And boy do I have soooo many questions.

Everything is going great. Dora came to church. I think she was a little intimated when she went to Sunday School, instead of gospel principles (we don´t have one). But next week we will just teach the class for her. We finally chatted with Rosmeri and she is just such a delight and needs God in her life. She said that her visit helped her a lot and that she wants to continue increasing her faith in God.

Again with the couples mission! It would be the best thing ever! If you want to serve come to Monte with your cute spouse!

Sorry i barely wrote anything. But gotta go. Love you all. The gospel is real.

Hermanita Urban

Pray for families.

All Signs point to a true missionary in this post

2009-03-31T07:34:00.005-06:00

This is Elissa's Dad again. Every week is a new surprise and delight hearing from Hermana Urban. She is doing so well and it is because of all our friends, prayers, letters, encouragement that she moves forward with the work. Can you believe in only a short 5 months she will be home. I am very happy and sad at the same time. She really has done so well I dread to see it end. The beauty is it doesn't have to end! We would love to let the missionary Spirit continue here at home. Let us be a light for you and those you know that are ready to hear this great message of love and hope! This invitation will be kept confidential. Just e-mail me at Jim@HomeReferralTeam.net

and now her letter this week...

I try to turn more to God little by little, day by day. Because He is the ultimate source of knowledge. And boy do I have soooo many questions.

Again with the couples mission! It would be the best thing ever! If you want to serve come to Monte with your cute spouse!

Sorry I barely wrote anything. But gotta go. Love you all. The gospel is real.

Hermanita Urban

Pray for families.

the weekly

2009-03-24T09:54:00.004-06:00

la estrella:

happy birthday grandma!!!

monte:

el tren:

So this first week of the transfer was an exciting one. After lots of travel we were able to work a ton and do some damage. My companion is called Hermana Gatica, she is from Chile. I felt soooooo bad after one day’s work her feet were covered with blisters. But they are getting better now. We had some great experiences this week. One lady named Betty: She at first was very cold to us, but because her friends are members of the church she started to have a little more interest. After we had a little visit with her I asked if she could say the closing prayer. She started to cry during her prayer and express the things that she had in her heart to her Father in Heaven. I love that. To witness someone go to the Lord in a humble prayer and gain a relationship with him is really a privilege that I have as a missionary, as a person.

We were also able to do divisions this week. Hna Gatica went with Silvia Orellano (RS president and wife of the branch president). They went to visit Dora and talked about the Ten Commandments as well as repentance. They all felt the spirit witness to them that these things come from someone that loves them and cares for them (aka God) and gained more “Umph” to do it.

Basically God exists. And so does His son Jesucristo. I am grateful for the faith that I have and happy that I can live in accordance with this knowledge.

Say your prayers. He hears you!

Anyway, love you. Jesus loves you more.
Hermanita Urban

Radio Show...Wow how cool is this!

2009-03-17T08:42:00.001-06:00

I cannot believe how fast the last 6 weeks went. It honestly feels like it didn´t even exist. Today marks the first day of another transfer and I cannot believe it but Hermana Ingoldsby left me! She is off to another area. We might´ve cried. I don´t know who my new companion is she comes from the MTC tomorrow. She is a Latina. So that means that I am training and only spanish. I am excited but nervous as well. I hope I do a good job. Gosh I am just so amazed at how fast this transfer went by. I cried in transfer meeting because it is so scary how fast time seems to be going.

The Rama needs a lot of help and it kind of stresses me out. But I just need to be patient and little by little we will see some great improvements. We don´t have every many investigators. Dora has a baptismal date!!! I am really happy about that!!! But we are still going to have to work super hard. Javier (of Javier and Rosmeri) is moving. Which makes me really sad. But I still have a lot of hope to teach her and the kids. They are the smartest kids I have every met in my life and I love them so much.

The radio show went well again. We talked about families. and Jaun Carlos is expecting us every Wednesday now. He is really great. I am going to make him cookies or something and give him a Book of Mormon. I hope to find some people from this.

Well Love you all so much! God loves you.

Impresionate!!!!!

2009-03-12T23:09:00.004-06:00

The comps:

Noche De Hogar with Ericka and her family and her friend Ana Maria. We played UNO!

the Radio show!

We are trying so hard to find these days.

On a sad sad note: We went to Ericka´s house to visit her, do a little teaching, the usual. But this time the walls were all bare!! Why??? Something was definitely off. So We sat down and she told us that she was moving! The next day! Oh my goodness!! Our best investigator is leaving us. I wanted to cry so badly. Because after hours of rejection and not a lot of success ONE good visit with Ericka made it all better. Unfortunately it was true. Fortunately she is moving to Brandsen, not very far away and there are hermanas over there. We called the other missionaries and she talked to them on the phone to feel more comfortable. We gave kisses and hugs and said goodbyes. But I know that this move will be good in the sense that her husband wont have to travel so much = more time at home = more time to talk with the missionaries.

So we were doing contacts the other day. We started to talk with this one guy named Juan Carlos. He told us that he owns and radio in Monte and that we should come check it out. So we walked over with him to his radion station 107.7 “El SOL” He is apparently a well known man in Monte that does a lot of charity work and tries to help people out all the time. So we are BFF´s already (I don´t think he knows). But then he invited us to come again to the radio and he would give us some air time to talk about what we want to talk about. YES!! So we had this little radio gig. SO fun! We were really nervous but it turned out really well. He didn´t interview us or anything. We just explained the Restoration and how God loves us! And we also sang a song “Divina Luz.” He invited us back. Now the sister missionaries in Monte have a little radio show!

The next day we were doing contacts (again trying to find) and clapped a house. This women walked out and said: “oh you are the chicas from the radio!” She invited us in, we chatted and then she came to church! He name is Dora and we are very content. Well, I am gonna work on sending some pics.

I love yous alls!!!
The church is true.
Hermanita Urban

LOTS of WALKING

2009-03-02T19:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was fast and testimony meeting. Hermano and Hermana Eva are a couple from the stake that come every Sunday to help out the branch as their calling. They are like our parents on Sundays and I love it. Hermano Eva asked us to bare our testimonies in English, It was a really great simple experience. Both Hermana Inglodsby and I shared our testimonies, it was a little weird because we haven´t done that in a long time. But I noticed many of the members wiping tears off their faces. I cannot get over the fact that we feel with the spirit and not so much what is said. It works in all aspects of life.

We are teaching 2 great families. Ericka and her two sons. And Rosmeri and her kids. The problem is trying to get all of them together. We really need to teach the men of the families. Without them it is really hard for everyone else to progress. We had a Noche de Hogar with Ericka and her boys. We watched The Restoration and playing UNO. They loved it. But we have yet to met her husband. But he has seen these amazing changes in Ericka that he wants to meet us, he is just never at home. This week we will meet him sí o sí. Rosmeri is this amazingly nice lady, she is a nurse and is such a good mom. Her dad actually is a member, but lives in Uruguay and hasn´t gone to church for a long time. And Rosmeri´s husband is the son of a recent convert here in Monte. We have met him and he is really great too. This is exactly what Monte needs! Families and leadership. I love it here. And there is a ton of work to do, it´s just hard getting it on its feet.

If anyone wants to serve a couples mission let me know ASAP! And President Asay can call you and then maybe you can serve with me here in Monte!!!!! There is nothing cooler then leaving your home, learning a language, and telling people about the things that mean most to you.

We are walking so much (like usual) but I think it will help me train for when I do the Amazing Race.

Well, I love all of you and miss you lots. I cannot believe it is March, yay for March.
That means summer will soon cease.

Chow
Hermana Urban

from february 23

2009-02-23T23:07:00.001-07:00

This week was great. The weeks go by soooo fast.

We have not been able to find Nestor. He randomly disappeared. So we are really sad that that happened. We have no idea where he went. weird eh?

We are teaching two great families. The running theme I see in this work is the purpose and life people receive from the gospel. One of my favorite persons ever, Erikca, is finding so much happiness and purpose from the gospel. (sorry i dont have a lot of time so I can´t go in crazy detail). A year ago she wasn´t happy at all and now she has purpose.

I know that this is God´s church. I am grateful to be apart of it. I am also grateful that I can be apart of the work. I think everyone should go on a mission. We need more missionaries.

love,
hermana urban

This Week in Pictures...always fun!

2009-02-16T19:24:00.009-07:00

Here is a bunch of girlies from a Banfield activity . . . oh and Hermano Ramierz haha.
and...Doing some sweet paper work.

We might have stayed at the mission home last weekend. And hermana Asay might have made cookies. That was the first real cookie I´ve had in a year. Brown sugar doesn´t exist here. But Hna Asay has some I guess. She is pretty much amazing.

The LONG train ride. Imagine doing 2 bus rides and a train ride and then walking to your new home with crazy luggage. No fun. zero fun. The big suitcase of mine broke. I don´t know what I will do . . .

Familia Rameriz from Banfield 4 (love them.)

Me packing my life away to move to Monte while sucking a sucker (one of those Las Vegas suckers that my Mom sent me)

A nice friendly cockroach...Whoa!

happiness.

2009-02-10T20:37:00.004-07:00

green dot: san miguel de monte

So one week in San Miguel de Monte. It is soooooo cute. Honestly, this entire week I have non-stop been telling my adorably awesome companion that I feel like I am in a whole different world. It has all these tourist type things. There is an amazing lake that I see people jet skiing and playing. I try to not get jealous. There is a bit of a drought going on so the lake is really low; it actually is acting like a beach right now because it is so low. People are playing on the "beach."

The church is super small. To give you an idea the member list is 2 pages long. It hasn´t had missionaries for a really long time and so the members are getting a little more excited about the work here (because we are here now!). Our church building is – no joke – an old Club. It is hilarious because behind the "bar" is the baptismal font. The upstairs floor is spotted with chewed gum embedded into the worn down carpet. The old dance floor is now lined with folding chairs with hymn books lying on top. Basically I love it. But my goal for this area is to help out the assistance so they can get a chapel. So that is my dream and hope. A cute little chapel for cute little Monte.

The people are great too. I am happy because if not I would be having major Banfield 4 withdrawals. N is this man that has problems with some pretty heavy drugs. We have started to call him everyday. I see so much potential. The only thing he wants is to follow Christ´s example and to have his family back together and happy. It is just that; that is what people want! Happiness. A good family. So it is going to be some hard work but I know that he can do it.

Sunday was . . . interesting. An older hermana that has been sick for a very long time died during the night. Some of the family are active members and others not. The branch president was called to go to the funeral/barrial. So we actually didn´t have church at all. Instead we just went to this cemetery and sang some hymns. Of course they make the missionaries lead the songs. It's funny because I am just this chica from the states, nobody really knows me, but I was some sort of help in a time of need by leading them in song. Sometimes we just need to do the small things for people.

Sunday night we traveled to another little town to stay the night with some other hermanas (Duran and Olivera). Because yesterday we had zone conference, hence the reason why I didn´t write yesterday. And Monte is pretty far so we have to travel lots. So anyway, our bus broke down half way there. The bus is super crowded to the point where we are standing on top of one another. We were standing where the door opens and closes (in the states I actually don´t think you can stand there). But anyway we met this really cute girl and made friends with her. She is 24 and has been dating her boyfriend, who lives in Monte, for 3 years. This weekend we are hoping to go met him and chat it up about how the gospel can bless their lives.

Ok sorry this email is long!

The mission is great. I love the point where I am right now on the mission. Gotta live it to the FULLEST!

Loves yous lots. Its been awhile ya´know?
Hermanita Urban

Ps. All you people get to see and read about me, but I don't catch much wind of what is going on up there. IE: friends write and send me a pic!!

Transfers

2009-02-02T19:40:00.006-07:00

Hola from the Deep South!

Well my friends and family, it happened. I am leaving Banfield 4. It was a long hot 4 months, which really did go by fast and was completely rewarding. We got the call that I was leaving Saturday night, early that day I called President to let him know that I would be willing to be in Banfield 4 the rest of my mission. The people are just amazing. I cannot describe the love that generates from those people. I have completely fallen in love with them. I am so proud of all of our recent converts. Lily has beyond amazed me. Delfina has such a strong testimony that she is constantly sharing with people around her. Ivan knows the Book of Mormon inside and out. Hevana is a shining example to all of her friends. Yolie finally feels as though she has guidance in her life, Siliva as well. Gloria and Diego will be getting married and baptized in this next transfer. Banfield 4 is just going to explode with success. Yes there were HOURS of walking in the dead heat, and there are many more hours ahead of me, but the people make it all worth it. I am sad to leave Banfield 4. Even though the pension is complete asco!

I am off to this place called Monte. It was just recently opened. Our chapel is in an old Disco turned church. My companion is Hermana Ingoldsby from Canada [insert screams of excitement]. I am excited but nervous. It is farming country again (flashback to San Vicente) So it will probably be a bit more tranquilo, than the ghetto.

So yup that is the update.

There are a lot of Missionaries going home today. A lot of my little friends. So blah. I hate saying goodbye. Its just sad news. But I was thinking about it. The elders that are leaving started their missions (2 years ago, dur) before I even started to really think about going on a mission. So I am happy for them, and proud of them for having served a mission. Because pretty much it’s the greatest thing ever.

It´s a small thing that I can do to show my love and devotion to the One that did everything for me.

Moments of being in our own Gethsemane are only opportunities that we have to know what Christ had to go through.

Welp, love you all soooooo much!! I cannot believe how long it´s been since I´ve seen ya´ll. Know that I love yous and I wish I could hug yous!

Vaya con paz y amor y mas que nada Dios,
Hermanita Urban

Update Last Week of January 2009...enjoy!

2009-01-30T11:53:00.003-07:00

Well this week was a little bit of a roller coaster ride. When is there a week NOT like that on the mission? We were just hit with surprises here and there from our investigators. But during this week, and the mission in general, I really can say that I feel that Lord puts us in the places where we need to be.

I talked about this one investigator when we chatted on the phone over Christmas. We always have the most spiritually filled lessons with them. They can feel something different when we are there. So anyway we stopped by and her, C's family, were there and worried- like. Something was definitely wrong. We asked if we could go in and say a little prayer of sorts. Turns out that C was pretty sick and they were waiting for the ambulance. So we went in and said hi and had a really great moment of lifting her spirits. Helping her feel happier in a really hard time that she was going through. We haven't seen her since, she's been in the hospital.

The Lord know his missionaries, protects them (you should SEE my area- "roll up the windows and lock the doors"), and He puts them where He needs them. I am not here to learn a new language, learn a new culture, eat insane amount of red meat; But I am here with a purpose and that is to invite others to come unto Christ. And along the way miracles happen.

Next week are transfers and I have fallen in love with this area. It is a hard area (But an "easy" area doesn't exist). I don't know what to expect, you never know. But my heart is really invested into the people here and there needs. Come what may.

Love
Hermanita Urban

Taking Care Of The Missionaries...

2009-01-20T07:31:00.004-07:00

As I was home teaching (a program where we take care of our membership) one of my families this week I realized that in our conversation we need to take care of the missionaries. Here are a few wonderful ways we can help:

1) Find people for them to teach in our homes.
2) Invite them over for dinner and invite friends and neighbors to join.
3) Offer them rides to various destinations.
4) Testify during a missionary lesson.
5) If you see them on your street talking to neighbors invite them in for a drink of water.
6) Be willing and offer your time for team-ups or split offs on designated nights.
7) and finally make sure they go home with some leftovers.

Just love and care for them because I know someone is doing this for my daughter Elissa all the way in Argentina.

Family Friendly and Candy Canes...a good mix!

2009-01-14T20:37:00.000-07:00

We love this letter Hermana Urban wrote:

Hola.

¿Capaz hoy escibo en castillano? Bueno, este semana fue largo y hacia mucho calor. Pero, igual el campo esta progresando. ok, voy a escribir en ingles ahora . . .

The changes we are seeing in Gloria and Diego are incredible. The power that the gospel has to bring lasting happiness and joy is entering their hearts and changing them for the better. In church I was sitting there, thinking to myself about the faith that Gloria has. I feel that her sweet humble faith can move mountains. Which only strengthens mine.

There is this new little park in our area, where a ton of little kids go out to play. And at night families come out. It is a huge change in our area. Before it was just a small area where people would sometimes hang out. It was NOT family friendly. Now it is. So one night we decided to go on over to the park and talk with families. My comp had a bunch of candy canes from Christmas so we handed them out to families. It was super fun. And now we have 3 new families we are going to start working with. I am excited to see the gospel enter into their homes.

Well, anyway, things are good. I keep working. I pray a lot.

Hermana Urban

A Package from Grandma Urban

2009-01-06T21:46:00.008-07:00

By Jim: How joyful it would be if you were all the way in Buenos Aires, Argentina and you got a package from your grandma all the way in Denver, Colorado. Grandma Urban sent her love in a care package and Elissa shows her appreciation, just look at these pictures.

a christmas package from elissa!

2009-01-05T13:20:00.005-07:00

By Bethany: Last weekend I got a surprise call from Elissa's mission president's daughter Molli! She had gone to visit her parents for the holidays and came back with a package for us from Elissa! I met her in Orem to pick up the package and then my family came into Provo that very night to bring Kendra back to BYU, so we all treasured the package together. She threw in some treats for each of us and for several of her friends. We got a few sweet Argentine pop CD's, some of her favorite artificial sweet bread, and lots of Alfajors. The most special gifts were the 2 little nativities made by her and Lily (which you read a little bit about in this post). We took a few pics and sent them to Elissa last night before she checked her e-mail this morning.

Elissa's response:

Yay! I am sooooo happy that your little package of love got there! I love Molli!!

I have the prettiest family.

you will have to make me pretty when i come home.

i love these pics. oh my gosh!!!

man i miss you all sooo much.

good job casey with the cool cd

Isn't Molli just great? she rocks. and she is going to be the best missionary ever.

I cannot believe you all did a fun little road trip. Jealous. I miss that drive lots.

Currently it is hot. It is really hard because we just walk for hours in the heat and I just want to be in a pool or our really dark cool basement. But thankfully God sends His missionaries little tender mercies. Yesterday after walking for HOURS trying to find some new people to teach, offer service, help, whatever they need, etc. we decided to stop by a members home (also because we wanted to use the bathroom), Maria (Love her!!!), and she gave us some orange pop. We also had a really great experience as we shared a scripture. It was a little pick-me-up. Sometimes our little blessings are orange pop and a warm feeling that doesn´t come from the dead heat.

Something that I have been so amazed at is how important the members of the church are. We don´t realize our own influence sometimes. The members, on their own, made a little basket of food/goodies for Gloria and Diego and their babies. One family had them over for New Years. And they have made them feel completely welcome at church. It is not "missionary work" it is the work of the Lord. It is people helping people come unto Christ. Others helping others realize that they are children of God and what we should do Because of that.

Anyway, I am just grateful for tender mercies. I love you and I love the Lord.

Hermanita Urban

new mission home address!

2009-01-05T09:39:00.002-07:00

from elissa:

THE OFFICES ARE MOVING!!!!

Write to and send stuff here:

Quintana 447

1846 Adrogué

Buenos Aires, Argentina

*the sidebar has also been updated.

december 29

2008-12-29T10:01:00.007-07:00

*2 new posts today! last week's and this week's e-mail. lots of pictures at the bottom of both posts. leave us your e-mail address if you want a high-res copy of any of the pictures. enjoy!

Yup it is almost the new year!! Can you believe it??

Christmas was absolutely amazing. We had zone meeting in the morning and we brought a white elephant gift. But the great thing is that my zone has the mission home in it. So Hermana and President Asay were so super nice and opened up their home, even with some of their family in town, to have a big Christmas lunch. So we also brought either a dessert or a side dish. And Hermana Asay made the Ham! But of course she goes up and beyond and makes everything else, including funeral potatoes - I forgot those even existed!! So we had our zone gift exchange. Ate. and then we sang Christmas Hymns. It was just good feelings all day. I am definitely one of the lucky ones.

Afterwards we went out and worked. We visited the older hermana and sang some songs to her and read the Christmas story to her. It was great.

We, once again had to be in early (because the streets aren´t safe on the holidays) and so we invited Brittany, President´s daughter to come over. Pretty much we had a girl's night. haha.

But this Christmas was great because there were no commercials. We knew why we were celebrating this day. As a missionary I thought more about Christ, why He had to come to the earth and what He did for us. The entire reason why He came to this earth was because He had to fulfill the plan of our eternal father.

Church was great yesterday. Gloria came with her little babies. After church Lily and her daughter, Rocio, walked with home with Gloria and her little ones. I watched them walk away together and I thought: THAT is why we work so much during the week, with the heat and the long hours. Because you get to see people helping one another as they are coming unto Christ. I love the gospel. period.

Well, it was super fun to talk to you all. I miss you all sooo much.

Well here´s to another week on the mission field . . .

loves

Hermanita Urban

PICS!...

this is Celeste, Oscar and Luna. I love them. Christmas Eve. (about 2 hours before i called ya´ll!!):

our little Christmas eve celebration. we totally found chips and salsa!!! (we went out of our way to find some, they are close to impossible to find. this is the first chips and salsa in a LONG while, and you all know I eat that stuff for lunch and dinner alone):

my excited "I can´t believe I am going to eat chips and salsa" face:

Little Lily Asay. A granddaughter of President Asay. It blew our minds talking English with little kids. Hermana asay said that lily had to have been drawn to me because of my blonde hair. haha. I loved her!!!:

The mission home christmas tree pic:

cool random door. not in my area:

the mission home all croweded:

me with brittany, Hna Asay and Hna Tracy:

(some of these aren´t the pics i meant to send.)

oh the last one in hna tracy and a stray dog. not unusual. we went to eat at this side-of-the-road asado place:

the sidewalk asado:

december 22

2008-12-29T09:46:00.006-07:00

*we didn't get around to posting last week's e-mail until now! new pictures at the bottom of this post. enjoy!

Hola todos!!!

How is everyone this Christmas week? I cannot believe that it is Christmas. That came out of nowhere. But I am not complaining because I am super excited to talk to ya´ll!

I have written up a list of things that I want to talk about. So get ready!!

Basically this week was amazing. And pretty much didn´t exist because it just flew by!!

We had our last Noche de Luz concerts this week. tear. I am so sad. But so happy that I was a part of such a great program. On Saturday night we sang in La Plata. A stake center that is a 2 hour car ride away. So me, being once again a very lucky one, rode with President in his air conditioned van. As we were driving along the highway, we noticed that a car accident happened on the other side of the road. President, being President and also a Doctor, decides to pull over and see if he can help anyone out. So we patiently wait in the car (actually we had a little music video moment). As President goes to see what he can do. But it was like a scene from ER. He was walking against traffic with his shirt billowing in the wind. I took a picture. But everything was fine. He offered to help but they either didn´t want it or they were just going to wait for the ambulance or something. ¿Que sé yo?

On Saturday morning we did divisions. President and Hermana Asay´s daughter, Brittany, came out with me. (she is visiting her parents for Christmas). It was very fun for me. And she just has this sweet spirit about her. (Since when did I say "sweet spirit?") She prayed in English in our appointments and I know that the people we were visiting felt the spirit even though it was in a different language. But it was fun to talk about the mission, why I am on a mission, etc. with someone that is making that decision right now. The mission is tough stuff. But completely worth it. You learn how to deal with and do hard things.

Well our little family, Diego and Gloria are doing well. They went to two ward activities (without us because we had noche de luz). But the ward is in love with them. They are from Cordoba, so the ward members have started to call them the Cordabitas, meaning the little Cordobains. Diego found some work. It is not the greatest but it is something. Unfortunately it goes until the early hours and he is sleeping by the time church starts. We are going try to help fix that.

Ok, well my time is out. sad moment. But hey I am going to talk to you all!!!! YIPPEEEEE!!!!

I am gonna call Christmas eve at 7 o´clock pm my time. You are the ones that have google so you can figure out what time that is for you. haha.

Loves

Hermanita Urban

Noche de luz. this should be a sweet cd cover pic. (Kendra and Janelle I have a couple of these elders picked out for you):

me and Hermana Tracy:

behind these trees is what is called the Holy Grail. Wal-mart. Haven´t seen one of those in a LONG TIME!!!

This is a special little nativity that Lily made and taught us how to make. she is soooo special:

President saving the world:

Somebody got a Christmas package and was super excited to get Christmas cookies. and as Hermana Tracy said the cookies have a special filling of "Urban love":

Hermana Asay made TO-DIE-FOR brownies for our last noche de luz. I cannot explain how tasty they were:

My new friend Hermana Insgoldby. And a shout out to her mom, Monica!

Noche de Luz - part dos

2008-12-15T22:19:00.005-07:00

This week in pictures!

La Familia Ramoa de El Dorado. despues Noche de Luz:

a little solo action. practice:

a little ice cream action:

a little "not really artsy but trying to be" missionary and christmas action:

me and my comp. a little christmas card action. you can tell we are missionaries by our now-off-white shirts and ped socks:

driving to noche de luz. BLESSINGS=CARS.

my zone this morning:

another kindof wanna-be-artsy:

Hello all!

It is hot, but is it great. This week we worked a lot and sang a lot. I am loving the spiritual experiences I am having as a missionary. It doesn´t really feel like Christmas for me but we are trying to use the Christmas spirit to talk about Christ. I recently read about the birth of Christ in "Jesus the Christ." It completely changed my outlook on the season. I think I will read that book to my kids for bed time, it is so good.

We had 3 Noche de Luz performances this past week. The comments have been crazy - of how this is the best one yet (they do it every year). People in our ward said that it NOW feels like the Christmas season because of Noche de luz. This is our last week of it. Sad day. But I am just going to love our last performances. I just have a strong testimony of feeling the spirit through song . . .and dance. I have had amazing experiences with both. Our director, Elder Taylor, is outstanding. I am amazed with his talent. It is insane. He wins so many style points, I´ve decided. I wish you all could see it.

Today I ate lunch at a place called "Urbano." I got fish and have decided I just can´t try to order food that I think I would like if I were in the States. Because it is always different. If you go to a nicer resturant - it is all about presentation. So the plate looks good. But it just doesn´t taste that amazing.

Sorry that this email is shorter. I am gonna work on sending a bunch of photos.

Hey, I got the package from Grandma Urban!! and one from Caitlin and Mary (i sent out letters today) THANK YOU SOOOOOOO MUCH!!!!!!!!!!

Love, Hermanita (little sister) Urban

noche de luz

2008-12-08T15:08:00.004-07:00

Hola ¿Cómo Están todos?

Well this week was pretty cool. It was a very fast week.

We had our first “Noche de Luz” performances. Song really is powerful. We sing Christmas songs but mostly we testify of the divinity of Christ. We went to two stakes, one of them included El Dorado, my first area!!! It was FULL with people, like whoa. But it was so great for me to see the first people that welcomed me here and made me feel comfortable in Argentina. But this time I could understand them. Haha. To my dismay they weren´t just speaking in some unbreakable code. I have pics but this computer doesn´t have a connector picture thing. (and this chair is really uncomfortable). But it was really fun and the Spirit was really strong.

We are helping and teaching two families right now. I am completely in love with them. They are young and want so much for their families. One of them, Diego and Gloria, came to church yesterday (on their own). And they really liked it. They have a month old and a four year old girl who never stops playing with us. She already loves the primary kids.

Also yesterday in church the majority of testimonies born were about how, we, these missionaries, are angels. One of the members said that when he first met them he that they were just a bunch of Yankees. Haha. But then he realized that the message they carry is so much more and has blessed him beyond reason. Diego and Gloria looked over at Hermana Tracy and smiled. I was sitting by Lily, she too looked over at me and laughed. One amazing member, Gabe, has been helping us teach Diego and Gloria and he always says how they don´t realize it yet, but how God has sent these two angels to them. (Que dulce).

Lily later had a funny thought; how the church is so close to her house, but God sent us (who live SOOOOO far away) so that she would walk over to that church. God works in very interesting ways, doesn´t He? She received her first calling yesterday: 2nd counselor in the Primary. I was sooooo happy. She is amazing. If she is the only person that I witness come into the fold, that makes this mission worthwhile.

Anyway, Bethany I got your DearElder, thanks for writing me!!!! ( I will try to write a letter about what you suggested – it might be really boring though). Kendra and Grandma I can always count on you! You are both amazing!! I am glad you are feeling better grandma. Dad I also got your dearelder yippee!

Saren - POR FIN! I got your letter. I sent one out today. Chaela also – I got your glorious dearelder, and sent one out!

I wish I could personalize these emails more. And so Kendra, even though you haven’t gotten much of any response I have so much to say to you on that happy Chirstmas day!!!! What would be better Christmas eve or day?

I was just (about an hour ago) informed that Elder Wirthlin died. I loved every single one of his talks. I never have favorite apostles but his talks always stood out to me, and touched my heart. I am really sad. Two of my favorite people have left this year: President Hinckley (I am still crying) and now Elder Wirthlin. One thing I know is that the world is a better place because of them, as well as I am a better person. I really do have a testimony and a confirmation of the spirit that the prophets are worthy, humble men that are called of God.

Well, anyway gotta go back to work.
Keep the Faith,

Hermana Urban

Ps For p-day I just watched that Emma Smith movie. AGH!! I LOVE CHURCH HISTORY. Can I just be a church history master?! It is so inspiring.

Fajitas for Thanksgiving Argentina style! and a quick note from Dad

2008-12-01T18:45:00.005-07:00

Note from Dad...

Oh so busy a life of a missionary from our church! My daughter is no exception! She and her companion work from sun up to sun down and beyond. They work so hard to find people to teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ too. This mission is completely about teaching people and helping them find faith on their own accord with the help from the missionaries on how to do this. There is no physical home or church building involved, nothing else but working with and teaching people. They do find people on foot and by asking and inviting as they meet people. The best way to find people is through faithful members who introduce their non member friends to the hear special missionary lessons. They teach gospel truths. They teach the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saint church beginnings and about the church restoration. They teach doctrine that all makes a lot of sense and sometime in your life you to should hear these lessons if you haven't. I think you will find that these young men and women who teach have a testimony of the gospel and they want to spread the good word of Jesus Christ and his great message. Here are a couple of examples of people who made the commitment. From Elissa:

Things are good here in the south.

Thanksgiving was great. It didn't even feel like Thanksgiving. We found a fajita mix so we made some delicious fajitas - with homemade tortillas and all! And then we had interviews with President. I love interviews!! President Asay is an inspired man that really has been called to be my president. I am so grateful for him.

We also had the baptisms of Yolie and Siliva. It was so nice. They were so happy and peaceful. I am very happy for them, now they just have to live the gospel. It is a huge change people make to accept Christ in their lives. And it is difficult. But it is so worth it.

We met this cute young family and the mom goes to dance classes with her daughter and little sister. We decided to stop by with our recent convert Lily. It was sooooooo cool! I loved it! It was in this lightly lit room with tile floors and no mirrors. The dance instructor was a little on the bigger side and was smoking her cigarettes while demonstrating. But they danced folklore - which is a dance from Argentina, of course. We only watched for a little ratito. But I loved every second of it. It has been pretty humid so of course they were all sweaty and gross. but that just makes it even better for dance classes like that. Well anyway the ladies name is Celeste, she and her daughter and sister came to church with us. She stayed for all of it! But it is always a little stressful: we talked a lot about the millennium and family history. You never know what people that are visiting the church for the first time are thinking. But that is why we have the gift of making our own decisions. So we will see what happens! Yea!

con amor,
hermanita Urban

Elissa's tips for future packages:

2008-11-24T18:40:00.003-07:00

Send packages US POSTAL EXPRESS
Address the packages to: Buenos Aires South Mission
On the Return address put MY name (that way the mission can pick them up but they know it is mine b/c my name is on the top)
Do not send it FedEx or DHL.
Pictures of the Virgin Mary might help get it through customs.
Bethany's tip- send Christmas packages now/ASAP!

gratitude

2008-11-24T18:32:00.005-07:00

PICS:

my cool roof.

we had "girls night" last night. which consisted of a roof top moment accompanied with some yummy food and my ipod.

this huge cemetery in our area.

It really doesn´t even feel like Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving doesn´t exist here so nobody has been talking about it. But I know that I am grateful for Thanksgiving. Who doesn´t LOVE the holidays?!

This week was great. We had an amazing zone conference. Life changing pretty much.

We have been practicing for Noche De Luz. Our first performances are next week. I am trying to not let my nerves get the best of me. (maybe send some prayers in that direction).

We have been working really hard and are seeing some great progress in this area. We have 2 baptisms this Sunday and more to come. It is so great to see the work take off. I have a huge testimony of working with members. They are the key . . . well really WE are the key. I am a member too. In the future I am going to out with those missionaries and make them work! haha. We teach about 8-10 lessons every week WITH a member. In some areas of the world they only teach that amount of lessons. If the wards here can do it, any ward can do it. honestly. Especially our ward.

Yolie and Siliva are the two women that will be baptized this week. They are both very simple women that don´t have the greatest amount of education. But the gospel has completely changed their lives. They have the desires to do things now. They have purpose. After our first visit with Yolie she took the Book of Mormon, held it, pretty much hugged it and felt "something." Her friend, Delfina, was recently baptized earlier this year, and Yolie was just waiting to have what Delfina now has.

It really is like this. People want more to this life. They want purpose and happiness. They just don´t know where to look for it or ask for it. People are waiting for the happiness that so many of us already have. That is why I am on a mission. To give people the happiness that I have. Because no matter your situation in life, coming unto Christ and changing your life for Him, makes your situation a happy one.

Well, Happy Thanksgiving! I will probably be walking in some dead heat. So take a really good nap for me, after eating some delicious turkey and pumpkin pie.

I am grateful to be here. I am grateful for my family that supports me!! I am grateful for the hard experiences. I am grateful for fans at night. I am grateful for the my friends. I am grateful for my extended family (misses and kisses). I am grateful for ped socks. I am grateful for the car ride I had today with Hermana Asay (the first nice care ride since being here). I am grateful for letters, pictures, and packages. I am grateful for my Heavenly Father and His son Jesus Christ. His sacrifice for me.

Hope you all have a great holiday. I miss you all lots.

Loves.
Hermanita Urban

this little ditty

2008-11-17T22:12:00.004-07:00

*i took the liberty of editing these pics a bit, for fun. :) enjoy. love, bethany

me [elissa] and hna zollinger on a bus:

this lady we sing to and read to:

Lily and rocio´s 2 dogs out of the 3. I love them.

A ver . . . ¿que pasó este semana? . . .

Things are going really well. We worked a ton this past week and by last night we were just dead. And the thing with the mission is that there is no rest time. it does not exist. You just have to keep going.

Lily was confirmed yesterday. She was so happy. We taught her daughter, Rocio, who reminds me soooooo much of Janelle so of course I just love her to pieces. She will get baptized soon too. We just have to set the date and then work like crazy.

Right now we are working with about 5 people who already have baptismal dates and so we are running around like crazy helping them come unto Christ. Baptism is the front door, but there is so many layers to the gospel that we have to continue in the gospel so we can keep learning and discovering.

I have been thinking a lot about knowledge. Kendra sent me this AMAZING quote of how people spend their lives studing a certain topic, such as: the arts, sciences, history, politics. But the works and mysteries of God completely surpass all of those. A depth study of scripture and the things of the Lord, one would really know that He does exsist. The more I learn, the more I realize how much I do not know. So much passes my understanding. But that is where faith comes into play.

I am so grateful for faith. It can actually be a power.

anyway . . .

It is getting hot.

What is everyone up to?

It is crazy how Christmas is coming up. It feels like I should be going to Elitches, the pool, road trips . . . Because summer is coming.

Well sorry this email isn´t all that great.

I love you all so much. Don´t forget that I am here and that I miss all of you soooooooooo much. Knowing that I have people that love and support me is huge on the mission.

Tell my friends (except the good ones that write) that they are lame buckets and need to write me. (but i still love them)

con amor,
Hermanita Urban

We Got Access to this cute picture when Hermana Urban was on a preparation Day...a missionary day off

2008-11-12T06:48:00.004-07:00

Can you pick her out? This is during a day of: Argentino Futbol. Also known as soccer. Argentina has the world record for most international titles won by any national team. You can tell it has made an impact on these missionaries. The people must talk about it like we talk about our Football which you know as like our Denver Broncos or CU Buffs etc. I am very excited that this Saturday I am going to the Air Force vs BYU game in Colorado Springs!

Click on the picture to enlarge!

happiness

2008-11-10T17:42:00.004-07:00

This week was absolutely amazing. We had one day of unbearable heat. We just walk around all day tired and dying. Our Pench is like an oven and the only thing we have is this fan. My comp said that this is how it is during Christmas – completely hot – so it is really early in the year and it will only get worse. I will die!

Yesterday was just an absolutely amazing day. The spirit was so strong all the day long. I woke up smiling for the baptism of Lily. We went to church and then the milagros just poured in. We had 7 investigators come to church. Record for this area! It was the primary program and those little kids just brought a sweet love to everyone. Then we had gospel principle class, taught by hermana Miño, it was about the law of chastity. I know, a little nerve racking for 7 investigators. But I cannot even tell you the amazing spirit in that class. One of our investigators started to cry and everyone was listening, talking with so much love and respect. The Spirit really is our teacher, if we allow it. And there is a huge security that this law really does come from God; that the sanctity of the body should be kept with high respect. I just thought of everyone I loved & how I wish they would apply this principle in their lives. Because Happiness is found within obedience.

After the classes we had the baptism. It was so great and I am so happy for Lily, she is an amazing women. Her two daughters and her aunt were planning on coming but they were really late. But they came por fin and I know it made the day even more special for her. Hermana Zollinger sang Come thou Fount but in Spanish.

Afterward we worked and visited some of members and recent converts because Hermana Zollinger is leaving. Now my companion is Hermana Tracy from Missouri. I am really excited. And even more excited about this area. Together we are gonna work really hard and help people find real happiness.

Hey REALLY COOL random note: my amazing, spiritual bishop, who is an incredible leader was companions with Donny Osmond on his mission. How cool is THAT!!!!

I also hit my 9 months this week. Weird.

I am praying for everyone. It is hard that things just keep going on and I have not the biggest idea of what REALLY is going on with anyone; but just know that I love your letters. And more importantly know that I love you and think of you and hope that the Lord will pour out His blessings on my family and my friends.

Our trials help us have opportunities of obedience. They help us reach a new level of faith. As members of the Christ´s church we have the opportunities to pass some moments through Gethsemane so we can become more like Him. It is incredibly hard. But it is possible.

Grandma I love you.

Love you,
Hermana Urban

the city and halloween

2008-11-03T17:34:00.005-07:00

Well, I writing early today because my district is going to this flower garden place today and we
have a lot of traveling to do as well as noche de Luz practice. Speaking of noche de luz I have a solo and I might net my pants/skirt. I still get utterly nervous. My solo is in Oh Holy Night. I have a hard time not wanting to sing it NSYNC style – but I will compile with the good ol´non-pop.

This week we put on a sweet ward activity. It was a good ol´ ice cream social. It was a little stressful. We had to run around (because we walk everywhere!) and it was really hot so we weren´t the most pretty things. But we were able to get it all together and let everyone know about it. It was a great success. People came and brought friends (the purpose of the activity) and ate ice-cream and played games. It was great!

Also my Halloween has nothing in comparison with Kendra's (I saw pics) but We stopped by a kiosco that had Halloween candy. So there! Haha but it was funny bc me and my comp walk in and we want to take pics with this Halloween sign and then all these people started to come in because there were two north Americans all excited over this kisoco halloweened-up. I did dress up though. As my comp. I wore her tag, clothes and my hair like hers. She dressed up as me. It was sweet.

Lily is doing great and will be baptized this coming Sunday. We are soooooooo excited. She is seriously this amazing light. I love her! Transfers are also next week. I think that Hna Zollinger might maybe may leave. She has been in this area for 6 months. A lot of people are attached to her, making it hard on whoever comes in and on me. But I have no doubt in what President Asay decides. He is an inspired leader; So if she stays or goes, or if I stay or go all will be fine. As long as I am working with and for the Lord it will work out.

Well I gotta go sorry this was short. I love you all sooo much. I should be getting Grandmas package this week.

LOVE
Hermana Urbs

Halloween week... she will miss it... Not in Argentina!

2008-10-27T10:46:00.004-06:00

Well, things are good! Hna Zollinger and I had a goal to teach 21 lessons with member which is crazy – almost record breaking. Even crazier because we walk everywhere and we need to have willing members. But we did it! Yeah. It was neat. I don't have ALL that much to say at this moment and time. I am actually really tired and hoping for a nap today. My first in a LONG time . . .Yesterday was stake conference and Bishop Keith McMullin from the bishopric came. It was very good. And it was cool to see the chapel full! I was very impressed with how many people came and looked prepared to be edified. (is that how you spell that?) SO hey Halloween is this week!! It just so happens to be my favorite holiday. I just love it. It doesn´t exist here. But there is a little Kisco that has a poster that says Halloween on it and they are invited little kids to come, or something. They also invited us. The lady was really excited showing us the little decorations she has. Haha. Well sorry that this is a short email with none of my random deep thoughts -haha.

Photos: Lunch with Delfina and Havana and their neighbor Irma, in Delfina´s home. She lives upstairs but this is the entrance.

Love you with all my heart.

Hermana urban

my this

2008-10-20T17:34:00.003-06:00

today's e-mail, posted by Bethany

Welp another sweet week in Banfield. Things are good and the sun is out- I will probably start getting some great sister missionary tan lines pretty soon. Yesterday was Mother's Day in Argentina. Making me think about my mommy. I love you! President and Hermana Asay came to our ward yesterday and President gave a little talk – so good!!! I was so happy because we had an investigator in church, Lily, who is such a great mom and woman and I know she really enjoyed his talk. Lily is sooo cute. She is in her 40´s but looks like her 20´s – she has kept really good care of herself. She came to church in 4-inch heels with her makeup all done. It was great. I just think she is great.

After church we had lunch with Hermana Mino and her family. Hermana Mino is a little lady who is actually the mammita for the mission home. Meaning she helps with cleaning, and cooking. Her and Hermana Asay have become really good friends, and Hermana Asay has taught her a few American tricks. So yesterday for lunch we had mashed potatoes, roast beef, and gravy! The beef isn´t much of a surprise, but with the gravy! It was just a happy little moment. But Hermana Mino and her family are amazing. They are what a family should be. She raised her kids in the gospel and they are firm in the faith. We just feel so happy there. It is not our home or our family or our language or anything – but the feelings are there.

There is this lady that lives by us who has been involved with drugs for 17 years: which is a lot considering she is 31. It is so sad. She has a lot of potential. We will stop and chat, give her some hope and light. The problem is, the drugs have just completely taken over her. She does not have a lot of room to think for herself. Unfortunately, we as missionaries, can´t do much to help her. I know the gospel. But it made me think – It doesn't not matter your status in society, the country you live in, the language you speak. The things of the world destroy the soul. I think of people I know, in nice suburbs of Denver, who are living the exact same life as this lady. But on the other hand, It is the same with love. Just a couple streets over from here we felt so much love and comfort in the home of Hermana Mino. I am grateful that I can distinguish between the things of Satan and the things of God.

We have been seeing some great reactivation into the church lately. We read the talk "the concern for the one" by Joseph B. Wirthlin from April conference with the Ullua family. I have never seen such attention from them. I think that if everyone in the world would read . . . no not just read, but Apply these things, the world would be a much better place.

I really like working in this here broax of Argentina.

Hey Natalie Smith: I knew you could do it and I am sooooo happy for you!!!!

Well, that is about all for today.

I love you all. Sorry there is a lack of pics – no camera plug in thing. But hey I didn't get any emails . (big cry!)

LOVE and HOPE
Hermanita Urban

A Special Couple Came To Town! The House of the Lord...the most special place on Earth!

2008-10-16T07:26:00.009-06:00

Buenos Aires Temple...They just announced the 2nd Temple to be built in Argentina!

Note from Dad...and then Elissa's letter. This is Jim here...seeing pictures like this is a real treat. Looking at these pictures is no different than if you were going to the Temple in the States. This sacred building yes is just a building...but is dedicated to the Lord as his house. Special ordinances are performed here for the living and those who died who didn't get the opportunity to hear or accept God's saving ordinances. If you have not heard of this before you must ask me more about it. It follows history of God's chosen people throughout history who were commanded to build Temples. Remember Solomon's Temple? Sure you do. There were actually others who were also commanded to build Temples even hundred even thousands of years ago. Today is no different. I love our church because it is following this charge and we are a Temple building people. Heavenly Father smiles when we build another Temple... here is Elissa's letter...

¡Hola todos!

This week has been crazy. Today we took our p-day because we went to the temple today! The transport was long. But it was very nice. And I made the Hermanas in my zone wear their "Judy dresses". Because we all have them and I still haven´t found the courage to go full sister missionary look yet so I found friends to do it with me! haha.

Um Last Night was amazing.We had a special little visit from someone known as Elder Russell M Nelson and his wife Wendy (General Authority from the church). It was really cool. I sat front center. I shook his hand and hugged Wendy. Love her. The whole mission gathered together and we all sat and talked doctrine with an apostle. He ended by giving us a blessing, and apostolic blessing, as if he was touching each of our heads. It was so amazing.

Being a missionary is a huge blessing. It was the best decision of my life thus far. I learn so much from things that I see and experience everyday.

There is an amazing family that are new to the church Delfina (mom), Ivan (son, 21) and Hevvana (daughter 15). They are an amazing family - if I could I would be with them 24/7. Their lives have completely changed from the gospel and they are so willing to share it with everyone. Ivan through a party the other day just so we could come by and talk with people. so we are going to start teaching them. it was actually a funny and awkward experience this so called party. But I loved it.

Our mission is huge! There are about 209 of us. We are having a lot of success. We are the most improving and most baptizing mission of all Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay. They are sending lots of missionaries here because it is doing so well. I know that it is because of obedience.
Without this factor there is no way that this work could progress.

Well, anyway, out of this precious time, I must go. Elder Nelson mentioned that my loved ones will blessed while I am away. So just so you know.

LOVES
Hermana Urban

Pictures Speak A Thousand Words...Elissa had a Birthday September 27th and is now 22!

2008-10-07T08:19:00.008-06:00

Elissa was intrigued with the fact that San Vicente had a circus come to town!

She looks like they treated her well on her Birthday!

This is Elissa's Dad...Pictures are so loved by friends and family back home because just seeing some of the wonderful things that are going on make it so exciting. You know these same wonderful things are going on right here in our home town (Denver). Don't be shy...because I get asked on a regular basis how Elissa is doing. It is so fun to find different ways to answer that question. Lets get together for lunch and talk about our children and how they are doing. Something as significant as having a daughter on a mission in Argentina can lead to wonderful conversation :) Enjoy this letter-

Well, my family of mine things are good here in the Argentine world. The area that I am in right now is like the broax of New York but in Argentina. The streets are a little confusing but I will get it. We have an investigator that works at a fruit stand and he always gives us fruit - delicious!!! The Book of Mormon is changing his life! I love the church!! Did you not just LOVE conference?? Wow that was sooo good! Mario, our fruit man, came to the last session! We watched it with him. But both morning sessions we watched in English - my native tongue! Saturday night we worked and we had a great experience running into a lady who has 2 grandchildren on a mission. She is catholic. She told us that her son (who is a bishop) and his family has been praying for the missionaries (us) to find her. So this lady, Fina, has been waiting for us. cool! So we just chat with her about her family. Her husband had an accident and now cannot walk or talk. She says it is like raising a child again. Her spirits were down and told us that God sent us to her so we could lift her spirits. We have plans to go back and sings songs to her husband and help her out. We left completely stunned. We so badly wanted to watch the general conference session but there is a reason why we did not. I love being a part of Christ´s Church.

Things are good, the sun is coming out. It is going to be crazy hot soon. I really love being a missionary. My life is changing as I am helping change others. I love you all soooooo much and miss you sooo much!!! Thanks for writing (those who do . . . ) Because YOU ROCK!!! and if you don't - then you should... ha ha

Loves,

Hermana Urban

The Joy of being a Missionary and transferred to Banfield 4 Area!

2008-09-29T20:18:00.002-06:00

Hola Familia Oh como Les amo!!!Well my birthday was great actually. First off I started my week with a zone activity (last Monday) we had waffles and watched the Lion King! YES!!! And I have to hand it to the Elders – they went fullout on the waffles and made a huge waffle birthday plate for me! Also during our activity the Elders brought me two great amazing birthday joyed packages from the offices!!! It was AMAZING!! Thanks sooo much. Seriously packages are just little loves filled treasures. I felt very loved and full of sugered waffles. Haha. Well, then we worked during the week and had some great success. I love San Vicente. I know things will jsut get better and better in San Vicente. The members need a lot of help but we have an amazing brach President now and his wife is so great. I have so much respect for this women. Shs is such a strong women.

Well, our branch and another ward had a service activity this Saturday = my brithday. No one from the Branch came but Hermana Olsen and I had a great time. We pulled out weeds and made a veggie garden for this little neighborhood. It was a great morning. And the sun is coming out more and so we even got some sun. (Hermana Olsen took pics so I will have to send ya´ll some later). After that we had lunch with a family. Argentines are insane about birthdays so they knew that it was mine. They kept making jokes that they were going to break eggs over my head to celebrate. Oh the Domingez family. They actually bought me a cake and everything. I have pictures but this computer is not working. Sorry about the unreliablity. Saturday was actually the last Saturday in the transfer, with that comes phone calls from our leaders telling us if we stay, leave or what not. Hermana Olsen and I were sure that we were going to stay together. But then we got our little phone call telling us that I was leaving!! AGH! So I am no longer in San Vicente nor with Hermana Olsen. !Que Raro! I am now in Banfield 4 area. It is more city life. And it is a lot closer to the mission home and the church building where will be having ¨Noche de Luz¨practices. Oh Noche de Luz is this christmas program that the mission puts on. I had to audition and everything! But I am singing again! Yay! We will be singing all chirstmas songs and then performing them and i am sooooo excited to be a part of it. YES!!!!! Also my new companion is amazing and i am in love with her. Hermana Zollinger – she is actually from Colorado. How cool is that???? Two little coloradains rocking the argentine world! I am soooo sad to leave San Vicente. There were just a lot of good feelings there. It is hard to leave an area and to not know what kind of difference that you have made. But from when I came to san vicente to now I can already see huge changes. There is great potential. But it wasn´t me, It was the Lord. When we are working- He works right along side with us.

Oh today during transfer meeting I got a package from Grandma and Grandpa Clonts!! Oh my goodness it is some really really really great brownie mix from this delicious bakery mix place in Utah . . . via DearElder. (love DearElder). I am sooooooo excited to make it and love every bite. Dont worry i will share!!! I could never eat all of it. But yes I love those cookies/brownie/bar mixes. Delicious. I will have to walk it all off . . .Well I love you all so much. I love being a missionary. This really is the work of the Lord.

Hermana Urban

Hey what is going on with the states?? I am lost.

Prayer... when were you taught? There are some good lessons the missionaries can teach you that you should know...

2008-09-22T13:16:00.004-06:00

Hola mis corazones;

Well this week was great, and as the days went on I realizad that we were running into a lot of service within the Branch. So some of our plans changed to help out some people in times of need, but at the end of the week we realized just how much the Lord blessed us. We were able to teach a lot of people and we have high hopes for everyone!!!

This one little moment keeps popping into my head: So you know our "Jack Sparrow" guy? Well, anyway we have been teaching his two daughters english. They are so gorgeous and smart and fun. I love them. Well, we never really talk about religion with them but then it came up (bound to when you are a missionary) with his youngest who is 13 but looks like she is 15. Ramon (Jack) told us that his daughters don't know anything about God or anything because he wants them to decide for themselves what is true. We responded with "perfect!!! We can introduce her to God and then she can decide." We went to the very basics with her. I asked her if she has had experience with prayer ever and she hasn´t. It blew me away for a moment. Prayer!?! So we told her that there actually exsists a God, a loving Heavenly Father that lives in the heavens and loves us personally. That we are daughters of Him- which makes us sacred and very special. Then we went on to explain that through prayer we can talk to Him. Tell him every little worry we have, every rejoice we have and what we need. I just remember Vanina looking at me . . . wrapping her mind around this concept.

The truth is we can´t actually stand in front of God, talk face to face with him. I cannot prove any of this is real. But when one feels the promptings of the Holy Ghost, the small feelings that really this is TRUE, one cannot deny it. I think that Vanina felt that for the first time. That she is more then just a another living breathing being on the earth, but a soul that is worth so much in the eyes of God.But it got me thinking. Wow she is just introduced to prayer now – at age 13. I tried to remember my first experience ever with prayer. I cannot put an age on it. But I remember kneeling by my bed at night with Dad kneeling next to me. And he was helping me say my prayer. And one of the things that Dad told me to pray for was: a worthy man that could take me to the temple one day. Haha!!! I think I remember that because I remember thinking "why am I praying for that while I am so young?!" So yup – that was my first (remembered) experience with prayer.

Prayer has always been something that I can go to in a time of need. Every moment in my life, when I had to make a decision I would go to Prayer. God is there. He does want to hear about our thoughts and our needs. I am so grateful for prayer and a Heavenly Father that listens. I am also so grateful that my parents taught me what prayer is, that we can and should apply it into our lives. Well love you all and you are all in my prayers!!!

Hermanita Urban

A Life Changing Conference!

2008-09-17T08:40:00.002-06:00

Alright… So I apologize for the short email last week.

This week was fabulous! On Wednesday we have zone conference with Elder Bowen of the 70. Unfortunately I woke up all through the night with some sort of sickness. Usually I don’t care if I am sick or what not I will still do what I have to do. But this morning it was just impossible. I couldn’t and didn’t go. Hermana Olsen went with some other hermanas and I stayed in our pension. It was weird. I mostly just slept. Well they came back after hours of boredom and loneliness, and told me that it, of course, was amazing!!!!! Oh well, I missed it and that was that. And we planned for the next day. (I was then feeling much better). Well, in the morning I was still feeling sad that I missed this amazing conference and knowing that they were going to have it again that day, but in a different (very far area) got me thinking . . . maybe I could still go! I remembered how there is a bus that goes directly to La Plata (where the conference was) from San Vicente. I called president Asay to see if I could try to go and He said that if I make it there at 9:30 then I could go. It was 7:20 – called the bus place – they were leaving at 7:30 going to arrive at 9:10 PERFECT!!! Except for the fact that we were still in our pjs – no make up – no nada. So I changed really fast and we ran!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (I brought my makeup)We made it there with time to stop by the bathroom. Ha-ha. The Lord really looks out for us.

Basically the conference was life changing! First off, I really feel as though I got sick for a reason - because I had to go to this one – which had things tailored to my needs. Secondly, I am sooooooo grateful that I can understand Spanish so much better now. We talked about a lot of doctrine and so I am so happy that trying to understand wasn’t taking away from the learning. The Spirit was immensely strong and I have come to realize once again how important the Holy Ghost is. Through the spirit we are truly brought to another level of learning. Things completely click. We talked about – who we are as a generation. How truly many are called but few are chosen. We can be chosen through our obedience. Elder and Hermana Bowen´s Spanish was beautiful. The conference made me want to step it all up to a new level – my Spanish, my teaching, my knowledge of the gospel. I just left walking on this cloud of spirituality happiness.

The church is true.

And one can know it, through sincerity and openness to the Holy Ghost.

Well I have got to get going I love you all soooooooo much. You are all in my prayers.

Hermana Urban

From a Dad's perspective...

2008-09-08T18:53:00.007-06:00

This is Elissa'a Dad. This is one of those moments where it is my turn to post a quick note just before Elissa says a few things in the posting just below. I can't tell you the feeling I have everyday when I think about my daughter on a mission for the Lord. Can you imagine how you might feel knowing that your child is serving in this capacity? I prefer to not use the word proud. I choose to use the word blessed. I had someone tell me recently that they felt like the word blessed was over used. I tend to agree. I would reserve the word blessed for very sacred and amazing things. Just like your daughter or son serving a mission for the Lord. I more than anything want to emulate what she is doing. In other words if you have been a regular reader of this blog or not... maybe a friend of Elissa's, maybe a friend of mine, maybe a friend of our family. I am totally serious about how you might feel about investigating a most amazing faith. A message about Christ. Are you a person who seems to be intersted in spiritual things? If you are we are holding 5 short and well organized meetings to discuss a message of Christ I really think you would be interested in. To learn more about when these will be held contact me at: Jim@HomeReferralTeam.net Have a wonderful day and enjoy Elissa's message this week!

trains and doors

2008-09-08T18:44:00.005-06:00

We worked really hard this week and saw a lot of success. We are really focusing on the basics - which I love, meaning reading and praying. It is our way of building faith and through it we are able to build our foundation on Christ. I love being a missionary. One really can find so much about themselves in the midst of "losing their lives." Make sure you are reading and praying.

me on a train:

Lomas, where the offices are. i took this pic today:

this is a cool creepy door in san vicente:

lady in the water

2008-09-01T09:58:00.005-06:00

Well my loves this week rocked my face off!

Now that I look at the week it seems like it was forever ago but in the midst of it it went by pretty fast.

Well, first off my little comp has been having really bad back pain. So much that she stayed home one morning and I went and worked with a mini, Andrea. Andrea is great and is such a hard worker. So Andrea and I went out to work and teach and find, all that good stuff. Well, anyway just as soon as we were going to go back home for lunch Andrea tells me that someone fell in the "sanha." The sanha are ditches on the sides of the dirt roads from peoples showers, kitchens and things of that sort. Dogs will drink from it and develop diseases. Yeah it is all pretty gross at times. Well, to have someone fall in it would be a tragic experience. So I was a little bit taken back that someone actually did. So we run up to this lady, Alicia, and helped her get back on her feet. Well anyway, I could tell that she was frazzled and she started to tell us about herself. Basically she needs some stability in her life. So we let her know that our message brings peace and understanding in this life and Salvation for the next (who wouldn´t want that?)- So we taught her about the Restoration. That same day she went by herself to the relief society activity. Can you believe it?? So we are really excited.

Well, basically I also lived a bit of a dream. Because of my comps back pain we had to go see the mission doctor. His office is in Capital. So we went to Buenos Aires for a day. We we early to our appointment so we got a Mcflurry at Mcdonalds. (a fake one because they are NOT the same!) and it is so funny Mcdonalds here is somewhat cool. It is where people go with their girlfriends to chat, or take their laptops and do business meetings, etc. It makes me laugh. But the one we went to had a balcony so we sat and ate our fake ice cream. I took a pic of my view.
Well, then we went to the Doctor. Of course he told her to take ibprophen.

Afterward we went to Jumbo. Let me tell you about Jumbo. It is a almost like a Target. SO I just relished, because, even though I have nothing against my cute little supermarcardos and fruit stands, it felt really good to have options and find things that I actually enjoy. They have an ethic food section (haha) and in the united States area they had Craisins. So I bought them! Yummy! Well, it was then time for lunch. We went to CALIFORNIA BURRITO!!! Ok so all the Argentines hang out at McDonalds. But the Americans go to California Burrito. It is the smallest little restaurant, but it is exactly like Qboda. After 6 months of not having my favorite food. I just about died! We met some girls there from the states that are here on study abroad and they eat here every week. It was soooooo weird to talk to people in English!!! whoa!!! and one of the owners of California Burrito lived in Grand Junction for 4 years. and she is awesome. Basically all of the missionaries from the north mission go eat there on pday. But we don't have that blessing a-thinkyou.

Now I see why one of my friends that served in my mission (the south) called the north mission the "pretty boy" mission. (sorry Scott).

Some of the things that I have seen outside of the city are completely different then within. Basically, if the city was the only part of Buenos Aires that I would see - I would think it was pretty cool and exciting. (in a tourist sense). But there are some realities that people don´t see. Well, that was a thought of mine.

Anyway. the food was DIVINE!!!!! And I wouldn´t mind it if we had to go again really soon. But I guess I have to check myself into a year of no mexican food or delicious chips and salsa again. oh the horror.

On our way back to San Vicente we stopped by the mission home and ate some delicious fruit with Hermana Asay. I love her.

But then we went back to work.
I really can´t believe that day even happened.

Anyway, things are good and hard at the same time. There is a lot of work to be done so we must go forth. I miss all of you so much. I just read some DearElders - I want to reply to everyone individually but time for that does not exist.

loves
hermanita urban

lucky alfajors and jack sparrows

2008-08-25T16:17:00.003-06:00

Hello family!

Ok well our internet time has gone down from 1.5 hours to one hour solo. And so that made me sad but I have to be obedient so an hour it is.

Well I am sooo happy in San Vicente with hermana Olsen. We are just having a blast and working hard. We have so much hope and faith for this area to flourish! One day we went to visit an investigator who owns a kiosko (random stores that are a part of peoples houses). We have concluded that he is exactly like Jack Sparrow. He has this long bushy hair and scruffy face. But really his mannerisms are all flowy and jack Sparrow like. He always gives us an alfajor so after we left his Kiosko we stood in this random street and enjoyed our alfajor until we went to our next visit. Well this lady rode past us on her bike and then stopped in her tracks, almost tripping over her bike, asking if we could help her. She, K, Is a single mom with 8 kids and no work. And said of course we could help her! So we went to her little house and introduced ourselves to everyone and told them what we do: How we are missionaries and teach people about Christ and Serve people! K and her family has a lot of interest and we have a lot of high hopes for this family. That they will not only receive help but receive peace and joy in their lives. Because really that is what the gospel brings.

Well, in our little zone there is another set of hermanas. Hermana Olsen used to be comps with Hermana Duran (El Salvador) in our zone and then moved right next door to San Vicente. Well Hermana Durans new comp was actually what we call a mini. A member of the church in this area who is willing to serve a transfer or two. (there is always a need for missionaries) So anyway this girl was supposed to serve but . . . ended up not serving (que lastima). So Hermana Duran has been companionless. So she has been with us for a couple of days and we have just been having so much fun! She is this little ball of laughter and I love her!! It has been great because she is learning English and so we talk in both Spanish and English. I think that it would be great if she just stayed with us forever!!! We took a mattress from her apartment and shoved it under my bed. then when it is time for bed we have a mattress ready.

Well I love you all. Know that I miss you and LOVE letters.
Hermanita Urban

#1- Me with the sotelo Kids whilst building their house. I am in JEANS!!!!!!!!!!

#2- Hno Sotelo and his new ties!

#3- Kids and stickers from Art and Cindy! Love you guys!

#4- no caption (looks sweet tho) ;)

New Companion Again...make new relationships fast but lasting!

2008-08-18T20:51:00.004-06:00

Yay another email from your little missionary!!! Well transfers are today and my new comapnion is Hermana Olsen from California. I am already in love with her! So far I have had a different comp every transfer. Dont worry, I am not a hard comapanion or anything. It just happened to workout that way. But am very excited for this transfer and have high hopes for the work in San Vicente, which there is a lot.

Well, these past two Sundays Hna Guynn went to visit other areas before leaving the mission. So I had to stay with an hermana in the ward. And who better then Virgina! I told you about her right?? She is absolutly amazing and faithful. She will go with us to appointments and walk miles, even though it is hard for her considering she has parkinsons. She makes me want to be a better missionary and women in the gospel.

Well anyway, last Sunday after church Virgina and I had lunch together. She cut up potatos and fried them. Then we went to her chicken coop and found some eggs and fried some eggs with canned peas. She is so cute! And then yesterday, we ate some delicious argentine dish. And afterwards I made her some hot chocolate as she read me old letters. I really am amazed by her and think so highly of her. My camera doesnt have sound, but if it did I would get a video of us singing or something because she LOVES to sing.

Oh by the way I found my card so I will send pics as soon as I can. But I don´t have it with me today.In San Vicente, I would like to say that we are cleaning it up a bit. In the sense that we are trying to find a lot more new people and help it progress. It has been hard to get people to come to church. But we will continue to go forth. The family that we randomly found (Alfonzo) are great and progressing. He is the one that found us when we were lost. Once they go to church it will just skyrocket. But it is true when I say that the gospel blesses peoples lives.

We Are also working to reactivate some families. It is hard, reactivation, mostly because people dont understand why it is so important to go to chruch. I dont think I would survive without my weekly dose of church. But we must DO the action to see the blessings. Well I love you all.

Chow

Hermana Urban

6-months! plus, package ideas: stickers, cereal, & pics

2008-08-11T18:22:00.005-06:00

Family,

Hola ¿como estan mis amores? I hope all is well. Well this week actually went by pretty fast. We had interviews with the president on Thursday. I am so grateful for President and Hermana Asay. I can honestly say that I was called to serve in Argentina but a part of that call was for me to be under the direction of such an inspired man.

Well, this week is actually the last week of this transfer. It is going to be pretty busy because my comp is going home. So we have a lot of random things to do so she is ready. But I really can´t wait for this next transfer. I really want to leave San Vicente better then I found it. I am ready to work really hard. I think President has something up his sleeves b/c he is actually calling in a lot of girls that live here to serve mini missions. Who knows I might get a “mini.”

So Art and Cindy – I got your Package!!!!! Oh my goodness what the most pleasant surprise!! Thank you sooo much!! I know how insane the mail can be so I am so grateful. As well as the people here! I already have some really cute pics of some kids with stickers. Stickers are crazy popular here. You give kids stickers and the parents as well get all excited. I remember one time I gave this kid a sticker and the mom was so excited that she took it from him and put it on their refrigerator. Hahaha. There is this recent convert family and we are helping building their house. After a morning of helping them out with their house I gave the Dad some new ties (from the package!) He was sooooo excited. I also have a pic of this. And then later that day he accompanied us to some appointments and he was wearing one of his new ties. It was soooooo cute!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! En serio. But thank you so much really for the package. I love cereal from the other side of the globe. Delicious.

SO I keep saying that I have pictures of certain things – which I do – but I don’t at the same time. So when we were helping them build their house the little kids got into my bag and found my camera. Yup. Well, at first I thought that they just accidentally deleted all of my precious mission pics. But just now when I was looking at my camera I noticed that my card is gone!!! AGHH!!! I think it must have fallen out! I remember they opened up the camera to try and change the batteries or something. The card probably fell into the cement and is now a part of their house. Haha! So this week I will ask it they found it. But I do not have high hopes mostly because a huge family with lots of kids that put whatever they want in their mouth. hahaha

Anyway, the greatest hour of my day (in a total selfish opinion) is my personal study. I love reading the scriptures. I am completely amazed at the prophets and what they suffered through. Right now I am in the middle of Alma in the Book of Mormon. I should finish the Book of Mormon pretty soon and then move on the Jesus the Christ by James E. Talmage, as well as The New Testament in the Bible. I am just so grateful for this time in my life to gain doctrinal knowledge; to completely have my studies on the gospel. Every day it increases my testimony and faith. I have no doubt that the schedule of a missionary is inspired. The first thing we do after getting ready for the day is read the scriptures and have an added measure of faith for the day.

The song that you sang in Sacrament meeting sounded like it went really well. We will have to do a special number when I return!! I am so glad Grandma and Grandpa were able to enjoy it.
OH man it just started to POUR!!! Good thing I am wearing my boots!

Kendra – YOUR BIRTHDAY IS THIS WEEK!!!!!!! I love you sooo much. What are you going to do for it?? I loved the story of Ken and Amy´s boys at the swimming pool. Basically your letters are great. Also I got the cd´s and pictures last Tuesday. Yippeee!!!! Seriously soooo fun. I think pics in packages can be a stable item! Because I love them soo much!

Hey guess what!? I hit my 6th month mark this week. Check me out! That is a 3rd way.

Well, pretty much I am in love with the Gospel. I love the prophet and the scriptures. I am so grateful for faithful members in the church.

Loves and Hugs
Hermanita Urban

Why are we here? Hermana testifies...

2008-08-04T18:35:00.005-06:00

This is Elissa's Dad and I just wanted to write a little note before you read Hermana Urban's letter. Baptism is such a sacred and wonderful ordinance. We as Christians understand through our gospel that it is a very wonderful and a special commitment to be baptized. You see we take Christ's teachings literally by following his example as Christ was baptized himself by John the Baptist. Having said that we leave it the option of the individual at the age of accountability to decide if they want to be baptized or not. We don't perform infant baptisms and believe that they are not held accountable until the age of accountability. Baptism to us is the beginning of our complete commitment to follow Christ for the rest of our life on this earth and after death. Hermana Urban is so committed to her work for the Lord that she is just seeing little but big miracles everyday. I just wanted you to understand that baptism is our beginning of our membership in his kingdom. We promise to endure to the end and follow Him forever and ever! After we make this promise through this example Christ set we then must continue to find others to do the same. We truly want all of our friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers to catch the vision of this great work and to prepare to meet God. It truly is the biggest reason for our existence as Elissa testifies. Don't be shy to ask us more and we will not be shy to ask you!

Here is her letter this week...

There are little miracles in our work. Even if i am not entirely aware. The other night we were lost in the dark and kind of wondering around. Out of now where this guys starts walking up to us!! AGH!! We got scared. But then he said that he was a member of the church and wanted us to come by and talk to his family. So we went and turns out that he was baptized 15 years ago but never confirmed. So he is going to get baptized again and his daughter (8) wants to get baptized and is amazing!! And his wife is still in the means of investigating the church. But she listens intently to every lesson and is so nice. They have two more kids that are 6 and 4. Wow all of that because we were lost. But they are an amazing family and I am so excited to work with them more. Last night we watched the Restoration movie with them and brought a long a member. So now they have a friend.Speaking of members helping with missionary work. I am completely in love with the ward to be doing a 90-day fast. That is true faith put into action! Now the members are going to be more aware throughout the day and look for ways to share the gospel. The entire reason why human beings are on the earth is to prepare ourselves to live with God again. Should we not help others prepare themselves?? It is hard to do. But we should go forth in such a cause?

amazing new members

2008-07-29T09:34:00.001-06:00

The fam,

Things are going well in the life of San Vicente. We actually had a baptism yesterday of a 13 year old girl, Mara. She is the older sister of the little girl we baptized the week earlier. Mara had no records saying that she was baptized before and was never confirmed so after much investigation it was best that she got baptized again. But she really is an amazing girl. Her prayers are always so poetic and beautiful. A couple of weeks ago in her prayer she said something on the lines of: “thank you for the new missionary, i forgot her name, but the cute blonde one, for her kindness” and then just the other day she said “thank you for the chapel and it´s beauty, for every time I walk in it brings a smile to my face.” I love her prayers because she will say what she is thankful for and then go on to explain why. Well, I gave the talk on the gift of the Holy Ghost and then the welcome to the Young womens, I actually got pretty emotional. So I had to hold in the tears. But I really can see her potential as a Daughter of God. I really wanted to say all that I could within the barrier of the time limit and the broken Spanish. But I think that the spirit speaks to us in ways stronger then words. Actually I know that is true. Well, afterwards she ran up and gave me a huge hug!

There is a family that was baptized in October. The mom and Dad and then 8 kids. Pretty much the cutest kids I have ever met in my entire being. It is so hard not to give them the biggest hugs! As missionaries we actually can´t hold babies so it is really hard. Monica, the mom, gave me the BIGGEST hug my first week in San Vicente. I could feel the love that she has for the missionaries. I am always going to remember that hug. (I am so cheesy). The Sotelo family is defiantly a family in need. With 8 kids and a small house and no real job they have their share of struggles. Hna Gyunn and I decided to teach them about fasting. After the lesson we asked them what they could prepare themselves to fast for. And then automatically Monica starts to talk about another family; and how this other family is in a time of need. I just thought it interesting to me that her thoughts went to others. A family that could ask for a million of blessings place their thoughts on what others need. I know that I could learn so much from her example. I am really excited because this week we are going to go and help them build their house. Yay for service!!!!

Well my loves to you.
Hermanita Urban

Mara on her baptism yesterday:

And the man from the stake that is a spitting image of the old man that plays chess against himself for his teeth (so cute!):

more love from our hermanita

2008-07-21T09:34:00.002-06:00

Hola my family that I adore!!!

Well how is everyone? I hope well! I pray for you daily. Well we had a baptism yesterday of a little girl. She is 9 and really great. It was a little insane trying to fill up the font in time. We actually had to run (literally run) home to get pots to boil some water. We were worried it was going to be too cold. So we boiled some water and added it to the font. I know that it made no difference because when she walked into the font she gasped from how cold it was. I felt soooo bad! But she was such a great sport. Yay! We had a handle of people from the stake at the branch yesterday and actually they helped a lot last minute with the baptism. One man, I promise, was the cartoon-man from that short film of the guy playing chess. Oh man I loved him! I promise he was a spitting image of the old chess playing man. He didn´t have any teeth, but he was just soo cute.

There is a lady in the branch who is just a little light. She has a huge testimony and loves the work of the Lord. I am amazed by her because she is the one that actually will go out with us to appointments. Whereas with some of the other members it is like pulling teeth. But the thing that amazes me about Virginia (her name) is that she has Parkinson’s and cannot walk well. But she is always willing to come out with us. I always just hope for the best for her. I hope that she is happy and content. I know that she will have a great blessings from God.

Well other then that we are just working. It has been a bit of a challenge to really find some people to teach. But I know that we need to find more people and get more people interested. I love the gospel. I know that it is true and that I way we must share it and invite others to learn more.

Love,
Hermanita urban

San Vicente

2008-07-07T16:35:00.002-06:00

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Vicente,_Buenos_Aires

Hola mis amores,

Well, today was the start of a new transfer. Or otherwise the start of another 6 weeks. I am awful with goodbyes. I have always avoided saying goodbye to people that I love. I never think that people should say goodbye. Maybe that is something I have to learn as a missionary because you say goodbye a lot. Yesterday I had to say goodbye to El Dorado. So I wont be seeing the baptism of T or D, but hey it is their baptism not mine and I am so excited for them!!! Whoo-hoo!!

Well with goodbyes come hellos, right?? And so today I moved to San Vicente!!! Whoo-hoo I will learn more about it and tell you all about it – I am sure. It is a branch. It is nicer. I live pretty close to a park which is really cute. I have a new companion!!!! Hermana Guynn from Connecticut!!!!!!! I am already in love with her! She is great and I know that we are going to work hard and have a good time doing it! Unfortunately, this is her last transfer. So I will be seeing her off. How sad!

Well a little D story:

On Saturday we went to teach T and Demetrio. D still hasn´t prayed to know if the Book of Mormon was actually the word of God. So we stressed the importance of doing that. We decided to kneel down right then and there and pray. First, we knelt in silence; I guess he decided to pray in his mind. After what felt like forever – me and Hna Tyhurst started to look at each other wondering when he was going to look up! Finally he said that he could´t feel or recognize anything. We asked him to pray out loud and told him that it isn´t the first time that someone hasn´t be able to distinguish something. So he prayed again, this time out loud, and then we waited again. After a while he said that he felt lifted, like something had been lifted. An answer!!! It took a while – as things will at times. But now D isn´t just going to go off on what we are telling him is true, now he can go to God. Our faith should be based on the answers we receive from above. Once we receive those feelings of the spirit then we know that it is true. We don’t have to question anymore.

Well, I am really excited for this transfer and I am excited to be in San Vicente with Hermana Guynn. She is awesome.

I made a cheesecake – delicious!!! It was also the first 4th where I walked in the cold with jeans tucked into my boots and a long skirt and a heavy coat. Oh the mission life. I have pics (of the cheesecake – not the walking) but those will have to wait for a while – no time.

I love you all and miss you like the crazies.

Hermanita Urban

July 1st E-mail

2008-07-01T17:48:00.005-06:00

*Elissa just hit her quarter-of-the-way-through mark! Remember to keep writing! :)

This week was good and successful. We worked really hard. Well, so last week I talked about Tanya and how I love her. Her brother Pablo is amazing! He accepts every little aspect of the gospel and he will re account everything that he read in the Book of Mormon to us, he is great. Well she was there so we ending up just teaching her a little bit and giving her a Book of Mormon. In the middle of this week we called Tanya to set up an appointment and she told us that we have to be sure to come on Saturday because it was going to be the last time Pablo would be there. He was going to Peru or something. We hung up the phone and just started to cry!! We love Pablo! He is the best Pablo in all the world! And he is going to be baptized and out of no where he is moving to Peru??? So I made them some delicious American chocolate chip cookies (Argentine style) and we went to our appointment. Well we actually taught about the Law of chastity and him and Miligros were both very accepting. But this is faith to me. Faith always leads to some sort of action or sacrifice. At times we don´t even know why we have to do certain things, but our faith leads us to do the things we know are correct. Well turns out Pablo will be coming back in about a month. So if I stay this next transfer (which starts Monday) then I will see him again. But just in case we took pics. And it is so funny because we took pics and nobody ever smiles in pictures here. So the first one they all looked horrible and I made them smile and took another. But they were all embarrassed to smile...

my peeps. Miliagros is in the grey, Pablo in blue, tanya in brown and demetrio in the black

me and my comp Hna tyhurst:

me and my district today. we are really cool.

June 23rd e-mail, with pics

2008-06-23T12:35:00.004-06:00

This week was a bit unusual. There was a crazy protest or something in the city and the leaders of the mission decided that none of the missionaries could leave their apartment on Wednesday. So on Wednesday me and my comp just sat, eat, read, sang, And I wrote letters!! Woot! I rarely get time for that. And so I apologize if I don’t respond to some of the things that ya´ll write to me about. It is just that I rarely have time. But on Wednesday I did, so that was cool.

Also I have never been sooo grateful for BOOTS!!!!!! It rained all of the rest of the week. And everything turned into crazy mud. I actually would love it if it was warm and we played Futbol in it or something! Haha. But we walked in it and my boots are no longer black but brown but they rock. I felt really bad for my comp because she no longer has boots and her shoes broke. It was sad stuff. So I would walk in front of her and try to find the best ways to go.

T, I think I have talked about her before for ya´ll. Well, She (along with her bro and uncle) has a baptismal date in 2 Saturdays. She really wants to learn Spanish and so on Friday we went to teach her some. She has a lot of drive. And really wants to learn. Well we were with her the entire morning, but only talked about English for about 30 minutes. For the rest of the time she completely opened up to us about her life. Let me tell you she has had a tough one. She cannot really rely on her family and she has been on roller coaster rides in relationships. It is all just really sad. After about an hour of her talking to us about her concerns, she said something on the lines of “I just don´t know what to do?” and looked at us for the answer. We of course turned to the scriptures. I cant remember the reference now but there is a scripture of how we shouldn´t worry about what we are going to eat, or what we will wear; Because God knows us and he knows what we need. If we put him first we will have the things that we need. After we read that together and talked a bit about how God loves her (Because He does!). She seemed so much calmer. We then asked her how she felt. And she said that she felt more tranquil and calm. There was a great difference in the feelings between before and after we turned to the scriptures for a little guidance. One verse. One verse is really all needed to help us realize how great God is.
I am completely amazed by T. Dad, I took your advice of telling people that I love them. And actually the week before this all happened - I knew that there was something bothering her (we had a lesson with her, her bro and uncle, and her little daughter was running around all crazy) well afterwards, I went over to her to tell her that I loved her and if there was anything that she needed she can talk to us.

I really believe that there is no coincidence that T randomly shows up at church after we handed her a pamphlet. And now she has received an answer that the Book of Mormon is true. That she moved from Peru and that missionaries are sent by God to tell certain people about these truths. This was supposed to happen. I love her.

Well, family I am about out of time.
I love you all so much. Hope Kendra’s room turns out sweet! What color???
Bethany I am glad that you and Casey have reunited. You are so cute.
Tell dad to tear up those mountains!!
Mommy you are the bestest!
Janelle you rock!
Seriously.

I am grateful for all of you in my life. And I am grateful for your support and love and emails. Just remember that I am still in the beginning of this whole mission thing. (I have to remember that myself) So keep up the good work of letter writing and prayers.

Hermana Urban

pictures:

the pride and prej one:

This is me going to write ya´ll today! Sitting in an internet dealie:

the goat eating out of trash. not an unusual thing to see in El Dorado:

June 16th E-mail from Elissa!

2008-06-16T13:49:00.004-06:00

This week was a good one. A tiring but a good one. We do everything that we can to teach as many people as possible, it is disappointing when we walk almost half the day for someone and they aren´t there. But that is the life of a missionary. Almost everyday we had that sort of experience but it is ok we still taught a ton.
M and N are still cute. N talked with his boss about work on Sunday and his boss said that he has to work "si o si." SO basically we are keeping our eyes out for a sweet job for him. and praying.

This little kid/guy named C is awesome. He is 19 and all of his family lives in Peru. He is here working. Actually me and hna G found him. He fell in love with her. texted us all night and day. We had to not talk to him for awhile. It was hilarious for me. Well hna T and I have started to teach him again and he is de diez! (of ten! - an argentine phrase). He also works on Sundays. But yesterday just as everything ended he walked in! Yay for him. He really is great, it is sad though because he just misses his family. In a prayer that he gave he asked for a blessing on his family and all. It just broke my heart. But hey with the gospel they can be together forever!

Well so everyday we would get home and just have total exhaustion. But today I am sleepy still bc I didn´t sleep all that much. This is why:
a couple nights ago Hna D called me and said that she talked to Hna Asay (mish pres wife, whom I LOVE!!) and how we should do an hermanas day or something and watch a movie. Hna Asay said yes!!! yay! well then hermana D asks me what movie I thought it was and right away I said: "dont even tell me that it is Pride and Prejudice" (b/c Hna D and I both are in crazy love with jane austen - you all know the obsession). So anyway today is the day. and last night I felt like a kid on Christmas eve because I was so excited! Whoo-hoo! Can you believe it? I think that it is a great way to end a tiring week and start a new crazy week.

There are 3 weeks left in this transfer and we are working with about 7 people to get baptized within the time frame. SO we have a lot to do. It is just the beginning.

Ok so I recieved dearelders last week and it was sooo great!

well family I just love you. And am jealous you are all living together. It hasn´t been like that since 2002 so I feel a bit left out. But it is all good. The mission is great. A lot of work but I am having good experiences and the gospel means so much to me. It is true. We are here for a purpose. And this life is happier with the knowledge and peace the gospel gives.

Pictures and The Joy of Care Packages...Small Children Give Light and Hope!

2008-06-09T09:14:00.010-06:00

Hola mis amores!

How I just love all of you sooo much! I feel like this week We saw some miracles. We have been working really hard because there is just some insane amount of work in El Dorado. When we taught M and N about the plan of Salvation we snuck some baptism pointers in. By the end of the lesson M was planning for a baptism on Saturday! Haha! Well we really want them to get baptized as a little family and for that to happen N has to go to church as well. He works on Sunday – which he doesn´t like to do at all. So he is working on finding a different job. It is hard though bc they are so young and have the smallest baby and yeah work is very important. But they are amazing.

Also we have just been asking everyone if they have prayed to know that the Book of Mormon is true; which is a very important step in the process of learning about religion. Well anyway, either our investigators haven´t prayed yet (sad!) or they received an answer! Isn´t that great?! When you pray to God with a sincere heart and listen to the Spirit you will receive an answer. People seem so much happier after that.

Mommy guess what?!?!?!? I got your package!!!! WOOT!!! The greenie one! At first I was like "when was it st. patty's day?" But then I read the cute poem thing and it all made sense. But I cant even explain to you how excited I was to get scissors, tape, paper and pens! How did you know? Also I have been enjoying my Celestial Seasoning teas almost every night. The chocolate didn't last too long! Haha but it was fully enjoyed. So yup I got it and it is still making me smile. Also for English class for the little chicos that me and my comp have, we handed out stickers! And then on Sunday yesterday one of the kids came still with his stickers! So cute! The little kids love you here too mom!

It is starting to get cold and I am not the biggest fan of that. But the sleeping bag has been great as well as knit tights and layering. My comp is sooo nice and cares so much about helping people come unto Christ. It is amazing what I learn from other people. I learn so much about myself and how I need to improve. This transfer we are concentrating on Christ like attributes. When I read this chapter in "Preach my Gospel" I once again realize how much I lack. But the thing is is that everyone is invited to become more like Him. We have the potential to have attributes that He has. I think this is something I will work on my entire life. Not just my mission.Bethany – your email makes me cry. So I actually had makeup in my eye for a bit there! Haha. But loved the pic of us talking!!!

A and A are engaged?? Haha! Actually I thought that would happen with them. I have to see pics I can even imagine the gorgeousness. Keep me informed with all that good stuff, por favor. Say hi to Colorado for me and just soak up those moments at home! Living with the ´rents again! They are the best!

If you desire to send a package I will GLADY accept it! Seriously I can´t describe that joy. Let see really just anything makes my happy inside from you! So anything you would want I guess. If you want you can slip in some shirts for my boxes of clothes I have decided that you´ll should just send me clothes that I already own and wear those out, instead buy clothes. My t-shirts from urban (blue and and orange one) 2 long sleeve thermals (purple and pink) and really what ever else you find. That is just an idea though.Well I love you.

The Church is True I am so greatly for Christ in my Life and His atonement. I am excited that I will be with all of you forever. I love family so much and gracis a the gospel I have an amazing family.

Hermana urban

...Mom we had a meeting with this cute old man in the ward. You would love his clothes they are so nice and old man-like and they rock. His wife is a seamstress so his clothes are always nicely pressed. At the meeting he served us hot chocolate with these cute cups and I thought of you. I snapped a pic during the meeting for you.Happy birthday!

mother's day phone call

2008-06-04T11:29:00.005-06:00

by bethany

something funny i've been meaning to post...

an embarrassing picture of myself. :)

this is me when elissa called our family for her late- mother's day phone call home. (we couldn't get through on mother's day). casey thought it was comical that i was crying at Smiths.

i couldn't even take a natural picture when we brought her to the mtc in february...

haha. i happy-cry a lot, just like the rest of my family. elissa is that way especially.

i love her and miss her! she is amazing. :)

We are now into June 2008!

2008-06-02T11:05:00.003-06:00

Hola familia and friends!

How is the life of yours? Things are good here. It is a little weird bc I am not the senior companion but I am the one that knows everyone and every place that we have to go to. It has been stressful for me because I have to lead the way and remember everyone that we have to teach and all that good stuff. But I have been forced to use more and more Spanish so that is good. And my companion says that if I keep going at the rate that I am going that soon enough I will be fluent. That would be sweet.

Well, Grandma, I too have kept up with the reading of Enos for a month. I love it! We will read it with people who need a little faith boost. I really love verse 12 well it says that AFTER he labored with diligence, then the Lord Blessed him. It is soooo true as long as we continue to labor and be diligent and show our faith through our efforts, THEN we will be blessed and God will grant whatever we need to us. How great? But yes we do have to be diligent.

Well on Saturday night my companion told me that she wasn´t feeling well. Next thing we know she is throwing up all night long. It wasn´t fun for the either of us. Well, the Sunday came and we had to go to church bc we have investigators and we were actually picking up an investigator with a taxi. So I called everyone I knew that could be my companion for the morning. E, this young girl said she could come and so she walked to our pension which is very far from her. Bless her heart. And we picked up M (invest.) and went to church. Well, I was full of all these nerves bc My comp - who understands for me and talks for me – wasn´t there. So it was just me and the Lord. But I got through it and actually it was good for me.

She and her husband are great. Married and young. I think I told you all about them. But N (husband) cant go to church bc he has work. SO we are going to really work with him to try to be able to come. But she was there with her cute 1 month old. And there were babies being blessed in sacrament and she asked me if B (her son) could be blessed and was like "YES!" So we are going to work that out for her. I am really excited to teach her about the plan of salvation and how her family can be together forever. And then, who knows in a year I could go with them to the temple. That would be the most rewarding thing to experience.

Well, I know that package got here soooo fast! GO EXPRESS MAIL!! But what went even faster was the cereal. Haha. At our next English class with the little kiddies I am going to bring the stickers and they are just going to go up the wall! And how did you all know that I needed some earrings?? I read the letters over and over again too.

Dad- your new gel pen rocks! I love it! And yes dad, I have been eating occasionally at mcdonalds. Things that I never really liked before – like mcdonalds has become a lot better. And my comp liked it so yeah we would eat there. To be honest it is delicious now. But yes only occasionally.

Kendra- just think of your job right now as finding a job. Just keep looking. And thanks for writing me the funny things that go down. Those are the things I miss the most. Seriously!

Janelle- you are going to be Belle! I am jealous – I want to be in it!Mom- I know that you did a great job at landon´s baptism. The kids love you! As well as everyone else!Well loves to all of you!Hermana elissa urban

6 Weeks in El Dorado

2008-05-26T13:03:00.007-06:00

Editor's note: *Initials = names shortened

E-mail sent today:

Well it happened.
6 weeks = transfers. and it has been 6 weeks. thus today was transfers. And if you are a greenie it is pretty much unheard of to have your trainer leave on the first transfer, but Hermana Garcia is on her way to the coast. So My new companion is Hermana T, from Virginia. Basically I am nervous that I need to know so much about the area. It is also scary because Hna Garcia has been in El Dorado for 6 months, making her popular, and now she is gone. But I am grateful for companions because I know that Hna T will help me.

Well, this week was great and I learned a lot about the Atonement. I got to see it first hand. We have been teaching J and her daughter A; J's sister V and her son C. All were baptized on Sunday (except for V) But I just feel soooooooo much love for these people. They are all living with Hermana G (the RS pres) and her family. The kids ALWAYS run up to us give us the biggest hugs ever and everyone calls us "hermanitas" – "little hermanas." We were hoping J would be able to be baptized, she has a strong testimony that is a strength to mine. She wanted so badly to be baptized and make that promise with God. She talks about going to the temple and she wants to do everything she can to make her life and her family happy. And I know that this is the only way to have a better and happy life. Through the Gospel, through obedience, God pours out blessings. And though the Atonement we can be clean. Well, for the musical number I sang with C and A and B (their cousin, hna G`s daughter who was also getting baptized bc she is 8) We sang Mas Cerca Dios a Ti, Nearer my God to thee. And it was such a privilege to be standing (well actually I knelt down) and singing with these little angles all dressed in white! Honestly, I would have to say that it was my finest performance.

We also found this cute family. M and N – she is 21 and he is 24. They are from Paraguay and guess what???????? ….. they are married!!!! (rare) But they are so cute and they want to learn more about the church. They have a brand new baby boy – who is just the cutest thing ever. They actually had a baby before but he passed away, which is heart breaking, but we know that they can be together with that baby again forever, I am really excited to teach them.

Bethany – I really enjoyed your pics!! Just come to Argentina and follow me around for a day – PLEASE!!! Hagalo. (do it)

UM guess what, best family ever?!?!?! I got your package! ¡Que Rapido! THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH!!!! Seriously thanks so much for being so giving. It was a bit expensive – wasn't it? – so sorry about that. But I am going to have some delicious raisin bran tonight. Really words cant express my warm feelings for a package from home! ¡EN SERIO!

- I am lovin´ this The Killers are on the radio right now.

Well I love you all entirely way too much!! I think of you all the time. Thanks for your love. For your DearElders for your letters for the package!!!
Bethany give a shout out to Mary and scott – tell them I got their sweet dearelder. (I cant believe scott is home) oh also will you give me jenni´s email address. I need to hear from her!!! it has been too long and i have to hear about spain!
Janelle thanks for the Seinfeld! I can't believe it either that you are going to be a sophomore!!!! I LOVE YOU!!!

¡¡¡¡Les Extrano muchsimo!!
Vaya con Dios,

Hermana Urban

Ps. I forgot my camera cord. Lo siento (sorry)

Note From Dad...

2008-05-19T20:41:00.004-06:00

We are saving Hermana Urban's letter for next week because we are missing the pictures. I wanted to just take a minute to say how wonderful it is to have a daughter on a mission. I am also so proud of my other daughters too. It is so wonderful and rewarding to raise a family. Oh yes, there are always some growing and trying times, but having the gospel in your life is such a fantastic thing. A balance of what life has to offer is so important. Please click on http://www.providentliving.org/ to learn more about how to have a well balanced life. Including your financial picture, food storage etc.

My family and I really hope you are enjoying reading Elissa's letters. She is just so happy and has a wonderful loving spirit. People naturally love her and we really know that she is building relationships that will last a lifetime and beyond. If you read My Testimony you will understand how loving all people of all creed, color, and origin is really the ways of our Heavenly Father. I certainly feel this way!

Finally, we really do want you to take us up on a chance to hear a brief lesson that will be hosted at our home in the coming months during Elissa's mission. The lesson is exactly the same lesson Elissa is teaching. Please don't be shy because sometimes we are shy to ask. Please take a moment to send me and e-mail at Jim@HomeReferralTeam.net and we can let you know when we will be hosting another event. If you have my phone number just give me a call!

Sincerely,
Dad/Jim

e-mail from elissa: may 12

2008-05-12T13:26:00.005-06:00

*we were unable to reach elissa for our mother's day phone call, but hope to this week. cross your fingers for us! she wrote us an e-mail this morning, here is partial:

Hola!

Things are going great here. We had 17 investigadores in church yesterday. Which is insane. There is a lot of work to be done in El Dorado and I know that I can help. I just have to let the spirit guide. Everyone we teach seem to just agree completely with how there was a need for a restoration. And then Christ´s church was restored to the earth again and so the true church is once again here. But once people realize that God does require some sort of sacrifice for his people, people get scared or something. But sacrifice ALWAYS brings forth the blessings of heaven. I am amazed at the things people do sacrifice for God. It always gives me a little push and a thought that no matter what I go through, people have gone through more. One, in particular, has gone through it all.

yesterday after church we went to a members home for lunch. They are probably one of my favorites in the ward. I wasn´t even hungry to begin with but she fed us chicken - which I ate and then she filled my plate with potatoes - which I ate and then more chicken - which I ate. I didn´t know How to say that I didn´t want anymore. . . well I do I was just to shy or something (imagine that). Ok and then I realized that on the chicken there was still feathers. Haha SO now I am one of those missionaries that can say that. But honestly I felt awful. and later when I told my companion about the feathers she started to gag - she has a really bad gag reflex. And was yelling at her: "If you throw up I am going to be sooo jealous!" She didn´t, thank goodness. But it is ok - i can work and all. Tonight I am planning on calling the Pres´s wife, Hermana Asay. I love her and maybe she will have some advice for me.

mom--Happy Mothers day!!!! YOu are the best mom EVER! I am so grateful and lucky that you are my mom. I miss you and think about you lots.

Pray for this language for me please! I miss and love all of you.

Hermana urban

Enjoyable Letter from Elissa

2008-05-05T17:23:00.006-06:00

Hola family!

Tengo sueño! ¿Por que? Jugamos Fútbol hoy! Fotos la próximo semana.

Warning: this keyboard is awful and so don’t be surprised if there are a lot of mistakes.

Ok so you know how last week I said I sent something out? Well everytime i go to try the lines are ridiculous and we have somewhere to be. So I will try again tomorrow morning. But just so you know I am working on it.

Today we played Futbol. It was so much fun to not wear a skirt! My zone all got these sweet jerseys and put nicknames on the back. My nickname was just “urban” but hey it is a cool name. Ok but it is hilarious –on p-days when we have to take the trains and buses I am always reminded of a senfield episode. The buses and trains are soooooo crowded and everyone just stands there completely awkward . . . well in my opinion. And so you know that >Senfeild when Elain is on the subway and it has stopped and in her head she is yelling and being all annoyed?? Haha!! I think of it all the time – because that is always me! Haha good times. Well anyway the train this morning was ridiculously crowded and I tried so hard to not touch the elder I was standing next to. It was hilarious.

Well anyway this past week was good. It was weird bc I thought about home a lot. And I never dream, or remember my dreams but this week I dreamt and it was all about home. and my friends and family and stuff. But today I got DearElders from Kendra, dad and grandma and I think that will rest my mind, not that it is uneasy but maybe it is,. No sé.

Missionary life is good. I am definitely experiencing it. I have never had to go to the bathroom and the most inopportune times before in my life!! As well as I have never stepped in wet cement and not cared or twisted my ankle so much from walking on unstable ground. Oh good times! I have also realized that close to everything I say in English is some sort of slang or some phrase, because of this it is hard for me to figure out everything I want to say in Spanish. Or Castillano. In Argentina people will make sure that you know that it isn´t Spanish it´s “castillano”

Well we are teaching this lady (28) Tanya, her brother Pablo (23) and their uncle Demetri (44) I likethem so much! They have come to church the past 3 weeks and are progressing. I think that they really want to know the truth and so I just pray that God will prick their hearts and they will know!

There is this family, the Bobadilla family, who will get baptized once the dad´s divorce from his previous esposa is final and then he marries his new esposa. But I like them a lot. Yesterday we talked over hot chocolate, toast and jelly and they of course had matee. It is a little different then America bc she is about 25 and he is in his 40´s I would say. Age isn’t really a factor here. But anyway I would just love to see them go to the temple! And I would be able to go and agh! What a beautiful thing! Ok I am crying now. We have been talking about praying and reading the scriptures as a family. I was able to bear my testimony of how family prayer has helped me and my family. And though it was hard at times and sometimes we had it at 6 in the morning; I learned the importance of it. I t was hard bc of course it was in “castillano” but I hope I was able to convey to them what a great blessing it is.

Thanks family for having prayer and scripture! En serio.

I understand more of their Spanish. Did I tell you that the way the way talk is IMPOSSIBLE!! No offense to them – I love them. But honesty, it is all in their throat and it is all slurred together. Even my comp says that it was hard for her to understand when she first got here and she is a native Spanish speaker! Just diligence and a lot of it!

Ok so moms day!!! Yay!!!!! I can call!

Also some staple package ideas would be:

Organic peanut butter
Raisin bran (i miss it!)
Or dad, your old ties, they are gold here and when someone wears a tie there is a lot of congratulations!

Well I love you all sooomuch. You are in my prayers!

Hna Urban

4.28.08- with pictures!

2008-04-28T12:00:00.002-06:00

*Editor's note: Hi everyone, it's Bethany. This e-mail was so good, so hilarious! We love to hear from her. Enjoy!

Sometimes I really really don't like this email. I just lost my email.

anyway now this has to be not as good.
well to answer questions that you asked madre:

I dont think I got the dearelder from grandma. They usually take about 2 or 3 weeks to get here. And your package is here but i wont get it until next week because it wasn´t sent express. If you send packages express they will go directly to the offices and i can easily pick them up. the address is:

Italia 26. 4to Piso, 1832 Lomas De
Zamora, Buenos Aires Argentina

you can also send phyiscal letters to this address. I have about an hour online to read and write emails so it is better to send long letters the dearelder way. I want to hear about anything and everything is everyones lives. But you can send short comments, questions, thoughts, factoids by email. That way I will have more time to type and more hope for actual letters that I can hold and read over again if I so desire. Also maybe you can tell my friends this. I miss and love everyone and please continue to write. and dont forget me! Remember that there is this little rubia hermana on the other side of the hemisphere that loves you! and thinks about all of you lots!!

Me and my comp go to this little internet places. currently I am sitting in a little room just lined with computers, the radio on, and people typing or surfing away.

El Dorado is tiny. I don't know if you would really be able to find on a map. I can load photos, i will do that now! I don't have my cord so you are going to get photos from my comps camera.

ok if i have the numbering right:

1- Alejondro and his baptism! Isn´t he sooo cute?? And yes I am sporting braids in public. I am a sister missionary. but all of the young women loved it!

2- me and my comp at the temple. we get to go every 6 months and lucky for me my first week we got to go. it was in spanish and i was completely lost. oh man. it was difficult. but i met the temple pres wife who is from colorado!!! I asked if she knew Grandma and she said that she sounded familiar.

3- bus ride to the temple. these are things that missionaries just live for i swear.

4- Hermana Guterriz in the ward I love her! she is this little loco lady wiht 7 GOREGOUS daughters I have some really cute pics with them i will have to send next time. But she gave alejondro a white shirt! I wiah i had time to write this whole story - it was so touching. but just know that reaching out and serving others is amazing!

5- me and my comp where bad last pday. but i like this pic. haha.

i am sending some yummy argentina treats home! enjoy they are amazing and i want to eat them!!!!

Hna Gracia teaches me spanish and i teach her sweet words like sugardaddy and golddigger. man i got to go to the bathroom
love h urban

Hermana Urban's first e-mail from Argentina!

2008-04-21T11:42:00.006-06:00

*Hey everyone, here's Elissa's first e-mail from Argentina! Enjoy! Love, Bethany

Alright people the email from Argentina!!! My pday is once again on Monday. First of all Dad did you get the email from my mission president? If not I will let him know.

Ok so we will start out with the plane ride. Very long. Not very comfortable. On the first flight I had a really good experience with this lady that I was sitting next to. She was a member of the church but has been through a lot. recently divorced and she was about 24. But I shared some scriptures with her and we cried. Ya know the girlie moments.

Well then the ten hour flight. oh man. it was fine but long and I got no sleep. They actually played "Becoming Jane" and me and Hma Dax wanted to watch it sooooo bad. And we were going to, but for some reason our side of the plane audio didn´t work. God works in mysterious ways wouldn´t you say?

Well we arrives in Argentina at about 8 am. 4 am your time. We went to the mission home. i met my new comp. went to my area. and went to work.

Ok so my comp is Hermana Garcia. AND I LOVE HER!!! We get along insanely well. She teaches sooo well. She is 29 but looks 23 at the most, from Mexico and just the cutest little thing. I am really lucky because I am the only one who got a native spanish speaker. But she speaks english fluently - really well. But she is just so great with the people. She doesn´t treat people like they are investigators or "numbers" but as friends. And that is how it should always be! Sometimes I think missionaries forget that these people could be their friends as well and not just an appointment.

My area is called El Dorado and is huge! We walk a ton. Part of it is slightly nice but majority are campos. Campos are what you see in those infomercials to support children. . . yeah i think that describes it correctly. Me and my companion dont live in the campos. they are too dangerous for Hermanas. But we live in a nearby apartment. The front is this orange garage door with a tiny little door that you walk in and then there are like 3 other apts next to ours. Well anyway, there are dogs EVERYWHERE!!! They are a disturbing matter really. Think diseased dogs roaming the streets. The nicer part of our area has sidewalk. But most of it is dirt. Well a combination of dirt and trash. Honestly trash is a major problem there.

But what really matters are the people. AGH! I am so lucky to be serving in this capacity. Everyday we go out and help people find faith. We serve in anyway we can whether that is cleaning, cooking, just being there, but most importantly teach about Christ and how His church is on the earth today. People are so interested when we teach. We taught 30 lessons this week! can you believe it? Everyday I am exhausted with walking, talking, and mostly listening.

Spanish. what can I say? All I know is that this is going to take faith, diligence and everyones prayers! It is a little funny if and when I talk everyone leans in and becomes very attentive. But I have had some people say that I do speak well. the only problem is that I am having a hard time understanding.

OK but some people I really want to talk about are:

Hermana Espinola. She is a member of the church she lives in the campos with her husband and her son. But she religiously feeds us lunch every thrusday and Saturday. I have no idea how she affords to do this. She absolutely amazes me. We offer to pay or help, but she always declines saying that we are doing the work of the Lord and she wants to help, she knows that she gets blessings from feeding the missionaries. And her food is so delicious! On thursday we had this potato and egg thing with a salad. And then we had Canelones - this delious italian dish. But as you know Argetina has a lot of italian in it, so it only makes sense! I love Hermana Espinola.

Well, if youcan believe it or not we had a baptism this week! Alejondro is a 12 year old niño that amazes me. He only lived with his mom in the campo but sadly this past December she past away from Cancer. Can you imagine? It just breaks my heart. His older brother moved down to live with and take care of him. Well, Hermana garcia and her past companion started to teach him and he started going to church and having purpose in his life again. He is still sensitive with the passing of his mom, but now he has God. He can always got to Him in prayer. When I think of Alejondro I think of how his life is going to be so much richly blest now. I am so grateful for the church and the importance of education. With the Perpetual education Fund that the church has, Alejondro not only is a part of Christ´s Church but can continue his education. I am just so grateful to be a part of this church. I don't think people realize just how much the church reaches out to the world in every capacity. Which is fine. People don´t have to know. But I get to see a lot of it first hand here.
well time is up. I have to go.

love all of you!
hermana urban´

- you can send packages to the mission office (the address on the letter from the mission pres a while back) but send it express - very important. if you put stickers on it of the virgin mary and write mission supplies it shouldn´t get opened. you cna still dearelder

Hermana Urban Is In Argentina!

2008-04-18T07:37:00.005-06:00

I Just wanted you to say a prayer for Hermana Urban. She is now in Argentina. It may be a little more quiet now for awhile while she adjusts to her new surroundings. Plus, maybe somewhat intimidated by the new language. This is a time when she needs our prayers the most. We are sure everything is OK, but an extra prayer never hurts. Please include in your prayers that she will be led to those people who really need to hear her testimony and teachings right now. It may be through another person she is led to those people. Maybe it is simply your prayer that leads her to her proper destination for that day. Thank you for your prayers and have a wonderful blessed day!

Argentina 1 week away!!!

2008-04-07T11:08:00.003-06:00

Hola Familia,Como estan? I hope all is well. Thanks for the updates on your lives - please continue to update~! especially when I am in Argentina. And guess what? You can use "Dearelder.com" in my mission. Just put the pouch address in instead of the MTC address.Well, basically Conference was the most amazing experience of my life EVER! I can testify that watchiing and listening to it as a missionary is very different and eye-widening. I went in with some questions in mind and within the morning Saturday Session they were ALL answered. While the elders were in priesthood, the sisters watched the recording of the young womens broadcast. So needless to say I was completly exhausted at the end on Saturday. On top of the Spirituality at the MTC I had 6 hours of listening to the words of church leaders and apostles. It was an amazing experience. I am so grateful that I was able to sustain the presidency and Prophet.Young womens was amazing. I felt like i was looking at myself when the choir was singing. I never realized how much those broadcasts effective my life. They always taught me to satnd a little stronger. To be a virtous and to rise above. Janelle- I thought of you the whole time! I hope you were able to watch it and learn from it and apply it - I know I will! I especailly loved the story from Sis Dalton about her running the marathon.Well, then Sunday came. And because I had all of my questions and thoughts answered I went in with more. And guess what? Yup you quessed it: they were answered as well. I know that is it through the preparation of the speakers that we can learn. But only if I am listening with the Holy Ghost in my soul will I beable to hear everything that I need to hear. The spirit was so strong and I pretty much wept through the entire last hour of Sunday afternoons session!anyway mtc world is great. If someone can explain the weather that would be nice. But I have my travel Itinerary. I leave next monday!!! A week from today!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (So if you are planning to send me anything do it fast haha)but my flight is at 1:15 in the afternoonar: Dallas at 4:50Lv: Dallas at 7:35 (expect calls! give me your phone numbers!)Ar: Argentina at 8:05 am (so about 4 oclock our time!)and probably that day i will give my first lesson. If "first lesson" means being utterly lost with spanish - then yes!I am so excited! But this last week counts and I need to be sooo diligent.well anyway the church is true I love you all, thanks for being awesome!I love life!hermana urban

2008-03-31T10:41:00.001-06:00

Yay,2 weeks left.well this week for the TRC they threw us for a loop. 5 minutes before we went in we were told that we would switch companions for the teaching. So I taught with Hma ------, not my comp Hma -----. So we go in and talk with the volunteer, he is from Mexico and hilarious. And he was pretending to not believe in God - which becomes even more a challenge fo us . . . in spanish. But I would have to say that I was shocked with how much I was able to say and understand. I left my notes behinde and just opened the spirit to work through me. Once I forget myself and all of my shortcomings and rely on Christ I know that I can be an instrument in his hands.But it was hilarious b/c the volunteer took a lid to a cardborad box, drew a smiley face on it, put tissues on the top (for hair), put his arm around it and pretended that it was his esposa (wife). He would play with her hair (tissues), basically I loved it. He was great.The mtc also has these sweet makeup classes for the sisters. So i went and got free makeup (really good stuff too). the ladies come in and talk about how we liken our bodies to the temples and how we should look nice. Just as the temple grounds are taken care of. Not to impress the world but because they are sacred. I couldnt agree more. But these ladies are set apart as missionaries, come in 1 a week to make sisters feel all good about themselves and eat chocolate! HOw fun!ALSO this week I find out that I live in the same building that Casey works in! and I had lunch with Casey! It was so fun. Who doesn't love mtc food? I bore him my testimony in spanish - he was impressed - am i right casey eh?eh? It was pretty sweet. But crazy because I forget that I am sooooo close to everyone.Sometimes I get a little homesick, BYU-sick, or nonmissionary- life sick. But I know that I can rely on the Christ. He is there with every little sorrow that we have. I have made it a goal to think of him more often. to think of what He has done for me, He atoned for me. Studying the gospel day in and day out has given me such a great perspective on EVERYTHING. I still have many questions and much more spiritual knowledge to gain. But I see so many things clearly through the gospel persective. I know that the Book of Mormom and Bible both testify of Chirst . I also know that the Book of Mormon answers questions of the soul. If I (or you) have any questions about this life we can find the answer in the Book of Mormon. And we are also blessed by looking to Christ for the answer.Well, Conference is this weekend! Yay! an awesome opportunity to hear from the prophets of the Lord. I am excited to go to conference with a purpose in my heart. But I am not excited that I can't be in my Pajamas all cuddlely on the couch. - That is something else that I am learning a lot about: sacrifice. But still, I am excited for it.Something about sacrifice. It is from God. It is something that man could not or would not make. It is a way for us to learn and grow and become stronger from it. It is hard but it is worth it.Anyway, my loved ones, I hope ALL is well! What is going on in the lives of yours? Grandma thank you for your "DearElders!" (they make me cry) Easter sounded perfect! And I think I will need to see some pics of the girls in their dresses (i want one -haha).Dad- I got the memory cards. thank you soooo much. and for everything. I will let you know when I get the other stuff you are sending.I love you and pray for all of you everynight.The gospel is true.Yo se que Jesucristo es me Salvador.Hermana Urban

MTC Pictures near Easter 2008 We just got these pictures March 29th 2008!

2008-03-29T20:39:00.007-06:00

Easter Care gift...she loved it!

Her amazing district...Hermana Urban lower left with her eyes closed.

Ther Hermana's in her zone...they have really grown close together and are learning so much! Hermana Urban is in the middle on her knees

She is pointing to her destination coming so soon!!!!! Argentina APRIL 14th 2008!!!

Day After Easter letter 2008

2008-03-24T11:27:00.002-06:00

HOlA!

How is everyone? how was easter?first off, Bethany and kendra and casey thank you sooooo much for the cookies (they were gone within 2 hours!) honestly they were amazing! and then also for my easter surprise! OH my gosh the chocolate was amazing and thank you so much for the t shirt. you have no idea my need for shirts in general!(oh and for the sleepaid!)Well, so easter was gorgeous! It was so pretty and my district went to the temple to take pictures and i couldn't believe how pretty it is. I am always cooped up in my little classrom with flouresent lighting so it was about time to get some sun! One of the sisters in my district, her mom sent her some easter egg dye. So we dyed easter eggs and I read the scriptures from the eggs that mom and dad and janelle sent! MUY BIEN! Y DIVERTIDO (good and fun).So the spanish in the TRC was successful! me and my comp actually didnt finish our lesson becuase of time. but I felt good about it. It is amazing how you can still feel the spirit no matter the language. We must learn the language of the spirit. I know that i will struggle so much with the lang in argentina but I know that if i learn the language of the spirit then i can convey the message to people. Because this message is GOd's message. It is so important for people to hear.IN class we were talking about actually asking people to commit to baptism and what are feelings are when we ask that question. and one of the Elders, Elder bellows said: "I have a feeling . . . its like when you ask someone to dance and you are waiting for the reply" haha! first off you need to know his hilarity. But we all just started to crack up! I am so excited to aske people to come unto Christ and make that promise to live a righteous life. And I know God is preparing people for that question. Lets plant those seeds!Tres semanas left!! (3 weeks) can you believe it! I am sooo excited to go. One of my favorite districts just left this morning for the field (which bytheway is white and ready for harvesting) and i so badly wnated to be them. But just like you said dad, to enjoy the time in the mtc. I know that the mtc is this amazing once in a lifetime opportunity where i can sit study for myself this gospel. day in and day out. and through doing this i have come to see even more how simple Christ's church is and how important it is. And how is makes sense.ok 3 minutes left . ..I hope all is well, sorry that my emails aren't very long or exciting. But I love all of you sooooo much and i hope that your faith is being trailed and that you are strenghtening it!oh hey mom can you send me a jump rope?loves Hermana urban

Happy Easter! Send a care package to Elissa before she leaves to Argentina on April 14th 2008!

2008-03-17T21:15:00.005-06:00

Hermana Urban's Easter Surprise Care Package. For Family Home Evening we put together a wonderful care package for Elissa. She loves getting care packages. It doesn't have to be this elaborate. A little package with a special note and a tiny token makes her day so special and wonderful. It will be so much easier to mail her now while she is here before she leaves to Argentina in mid April. Here is her address:

Sister Elissa Marie Urban

MTC Mailbox# 272

ARG-BAS 0414

2005 N. 900 E.

Provo, Utah 84604-1793

Saint Patrick's Day Letter! Enjoy!

2008-03-17T12:28:00.005-06:00

Again I have taken out the names for the respect of those she is talking about. You still can just feel the power and the Spirit through her letters. It is such an awesome experience she is having!

I got a blessing from one of the counslers in my branch presidency and then yesterday I had an interview with him. Hermano ----. He is truly inspired and I love talking with. I have never felt so much peace from when I talk to him. And in the interview he bascially jsut talked to me the whole time about who I am and my potential. He has never told a missionary to look him up after they get home but he invited me over for dinner when I get home. He wants to see even more of what I become. He also said that in 4 weeks he has never seen this much improvment in a missionary. That I was fine when I came in but i have becoem this spotlight.I have been feeling that change in myself as well. I knwo that God is molding me into something better. I am grateful for that. I am grateful for Hmo ---- and his words. Seriously, he told me amazing things that i dont have time to write. But once we give more of our will to God. we will see more and more his love and how He can change our hearts, our wills and desires.

Well, last night Sheri Dew (click here to learn more about her) came for the fireside!!!!!!!! Ihave nEVER heard her talk before and now I see why soo many people love her. She is incredibly intelligent, well-read, well-traveled, and I know that she knows that the gospel is true. I wish I had time to tell you alll that she talked about. but I dont have time. read my notes when icome home ok?So I have decieded that I want to be like her! and afterwards ME and my comp wanted to meet her so we ran up. But there was jsut this sea of elders in the way. But they all parted for us. Hermanas will a purpose coming through!! So i shook her hand and I told her that I want to be like her and she was like "no, be better!" So new insanely unattainable goal anyone?????!!!!! I will work on it.spanish is coming but daunting I have no doubt that i will be fluent but still getting to that point is hard.a district in my zone is leavign next week! I am sooo excited for them but sad to see them go. most of them are going to urugary (sp?) so who knows when i will see them again.

loves yous!

Hermana urban

Almost One Month Into Her Mission

2008-03-10T18:40:00.003-06:00

The letters are flowing and we are so very excited about her progress. We back at home are having a blast talking to everyone about her mission and her progress. Here is her latest letter with some miss spellings. She really has very little time to write.

Well, Going on week 4 of being a missionary! I am started to freakout more and more with the fact that in about a month I will have to speak only in spanish. I have no idea HOW but but some power (from God of course!) Hopefully I will get through it. Well, this past week at our devotional Elder Holland came and talked to us. Oh my goodness did I just soak up every word - or at least tried to. He is hilarious! and so blunt! Which is very good. He talked about SOOO many things. But one thing that I loved was in his closing remarkd (which was about 15 minutes) He talked about Christ and his atoning sacrifice for you and me. he said that even when we do missionary work the right way, Christ's way that "we are going to have difficult days . . . when you feel alone . . . to think about the last hours of the Saviors life" He suffered for us. He suffered for everything - including our emotional, physical and spiritual pains. He was completely abandoned. Except for some choice women.I feel really inadequete to be writing about this subject, trying to type quickly, and paraphrasing one of the apostales words. But I know that Christ DID do this and that God DID provide a Savior for us that we may beable to return to Him one day. And have eternal Life. astounding.Also, I love the Ensign this Month!!!

Bethany, I agree with the soaking it all up. It is amazing. All dedicated to the Savior. I read the article by Elder Packer and was exhausted afterwards because of the realness and power of the Savor. This week, and last week, in the TRC we have been teaching the plan of salvation and we talk of the Saviors atonement. Packer's article is exactly how I want to convey this lesson. A concept that is hard to grasp but so important for us to know.Ok, well, the MTC is still good. I think . . . I know I need more charity in my life . . . espically that not "easily prokoved" part. I am praying for that a lot.I see people here all the time. But I have yet to see Casey . . . What is up with that? I saw Landin Smith the other day and there are people that work in the cafetria that know kendra and will say hi to me. Yeah I am pretty popular. It is funny because there are some people that I like to call MTC celebrities. They are the ones that did some musical number during a fireside or said a prayer in a group meeting. Yeah, it is pretty exciting in our little bubble within the bubble (provo).Elders are funny the other night This one elder put an ENTIRE banana is his mouth and swollowed it in under a minute. And then this guy/worker came over and said that they needed to "respect the food." It made us laugh. I know it is really lame.

Dad- I pray everynight for you and your desire for missionary work. I am insanly blessed to have you as my dad. I also pray for Randy swan, I cannot believe that! I hope he learns from the missionaries. Thanks for the political updates.

Mom- Thanks for finally writing me a little update/status on my package of sorts. also thanks for sending me the rest of my unmentionables, the letters, the musical program, and yummies. I eat too much chocolate! I have been really craving 7 layer dip - in 1.5 years i guess!

Beth- THANKS for the pictures!!! the letters!! etc!! Sorry that it taked for ever for me to reply but I really apprecitate it sooooooooooooooo much. Jusst know that. All of the elders love the pic of the fam too. they are holding out for Kendra and janelle. I have the prettiest sisters!~!Kendra- you are soooo good at writing letters. Muy Gracis! seriously! i hope you got my letter.

Janelle- remember the list of topics that i gave you? look at that and write me about one of them. include a senfield por favor. How was the musical? I miss and love you

Charlie- bark.

katy- YOU AMAZE ME!!! send me your new address I really want to write you but I have one minute left.

I am an AWFUL typer.Anyway, I hope all is well. and that life is sweet.

2008-03-03T10:49:00.006-07:00

Elissa is concerned about teaching with the Spirit here in this letter...after reading this letter the Spirit was overflowing with me, so I am not concerned about Hermana Urban not teaching with the Spirit...This note from her Dad.

Here is her letter:

Well, I am learning a lot. I really really really want the spirit to be with me and to teach with the spirit because without it, I am not successful. the spirit truly is the convincing power that brings people to KNOW that God still speaks to his children today.

The consul of Argentina came this past week to talk to us future Argentine missionaries. This is the only country that does this - i guess. So basically he just talked about food, culture, social classes, the landscape, etc. and all I can say is that I am SOOOOOOOOO excited!!! I learned that Argentines look Italian, speak Spanish, dress like the English and eat like the french!! Cool eh?Yesterday in church I gave the closing prayer in Spanish!! can you believe it??? Church is kind of different we don;t have Sunday school, instead we have a branch council meeting type thing. and relief society is in this huge gym and we always have a speaker so we aren't really "taught" a lesson it is more like a mini general relief society conference.

OK I have ONE minute what can I tell you????????????The church is true. I wish everyone could feel this much gozo (joy) from it. I guess that is why i am on a mission. I love you

Near Leap Year Day Posting...

2008-03-02T21:20:00.005-07:00

This is a photo with Sister Urban's missionary companion in front of the Provo, Utah temple which is next to the mission training center.

Here is Sister Urban's advice to me her Dad as I have had so much postive response to my personal Blog at http://www.jimsjournal.net/ and this Blog and my Newsletter:

Dad, an amazing teaching tool is to teach simple. No one can be converted without the Spirit. The Spirit teaches and touches the soul. We are just the mouth piece. Pray for the Spirt to be your guide. Have faith that God is preparing people for the Gospel and then pray to find them.

I have really have seen a wonderful amount of interest in my daugters mission. I really would love for you or your friends to learn more about this wonderful gospel teaching. Would you like to learn more about what sister Urban is teaching? If so send me an e-mail at Jim@HomeReferralteam.net

2008-02-25T19:52:00.002-07:00

Here is Elissa's latest letter to us. The names have been blotted out to protect our servants in the MTC

Ok well, this week has been great!! I continue to feel so blessed to be here. Random moments at meal time or gym or firesides I will look around and become amazed at how ALL of these missionaries will bring at least someone to the gospel; and how ALL of these missionaries are worthy members that have lived their lives in such a way to be here. I get a little inspired. The elders in my district are like brothers to me. (they are my brothers!) But they are so fun and we are like a family.
My teachers names are Bro ---- and Bro ---- (bethany i read a bit of your email so you get a question answered!) They are AMAZING!! bro ---- taught this amazing lesson this week - i forget the topic (I could easily look it up - but once again lack of time). He teaches with this calming power, his voice is amazing, he could be a future apostle. During his lesson he said: "Believe . . . That is really all I say . . . believe that it is possible." That moment is so special to me. What I felt is so special to me.
Bro ----- is actually engaged to one of the BYU womens volleyball players! cool eh? All I know is that his children will be so smart!
Bro ---- reminds me of someone that I would have hung out with before the mission. He is so funny. But when he busts out the spirituality it is a powerhouse.
I love my companion. there is no coincodence that we are together. We learn so much from each other. I wish I could find ways to serve her more. I feel like she is always serving me.
Dad- those ideas are great! Your desire of missionary work motivates me! I am so happy that this is opening doors. Please tell your friends that I got the book and I am excited to read it. I will try to write them a thank you card if i can. i really got to go.
LOVE
Hermana Urban

2008-02-18T18:29:00.004-07:00

Here is Elissa's first letter to us by e-mail:

ok sorry if this email is no bueno. I don't have a lot of time to type. The MTC is great. There is so much joy to be felt in this work. I am so happy right now. It could because last night was just a power house of spirituality with church, fireside, and night with MTC president. and then this morning, in the wee hours, we went to the temple. The happiness factor may change when I am in the middle of the week and trying to learn espanol, trying to improve my lesson teaching skills, etc.That is when we start to get fraustrated with being a missionary. The first couple of days were brutal. I was so tired but when we FINALLY got a small amount of time for the gym I just ran around and my mind was refreshed and I felt so much better. Everyone says "hello Elders" or "hi Hermanas/sisters" it is an adjustment to not say "hey guys."
I really like the cookies here and I eat them. which is not a very good idea.
I am learning so much about obiedence - it is so important and I remember Katie Rose when she came back from her mission she said that "obiedence IS the reward." When we have the desire to do what God wants us to do, it becomes a blessing and an opportunity instead of a burden. Ok I really got to go.

Sending Elissa on her mission is everything from...

2008-02-17T14:20:00.002-07:00

Exhilarating

Emotional

Amazing

Spiritual

Petrified

Here are some pictures of the JOY we felt as we were celebrating the last few days before we dropped Elissa off for 1 1/2 years on her Mission journey to Buenos Aires, Argentina. She will be in the Mission Training Center for 2 months.

We spent some time at Temple Square in Salt Lake City viewing and visiting some sites.

From Left to Right:

Elissa, Bethany, Kendra, Susan, and Janelle...I am taking the picture.

Salt Lake Temple...if you look at the top of the steeple you will see a statue of the Angel Moroni who was the last of the Nephites in the Book of Mormon to survive. He was able to bury the plates of brass that would later be given to Joseph Smith the founder of today's LDS church.

Cafe Rio in Provo...one of our favorite places to stop and get a bite!

Elissa's last few pictures before she reports to training.

Another good one!

Here is her address if you want to write her while she is in training until April 14th.

Our entire little family.

Casey & Bethany, Kendra, Elissa, Susan & Jim, and Janelle.

Her Missionary Badge!

This is awesome!

Elissa, you are a special spirit.

She will teach lessons about a special message to those people in Argentina. There are 5 special lessons she will teach in Spanish that will change lives. Lessons about the sacred teachings about Heavenly Fathers special plan for all of us. If you are interested in learning more about the lessons that are taught a great start would be to e-mail me at: jim@homereferralteam.net . We have missionaries in this area that teach these lessons too. You can learn more about this wonderful message of Christ that is taught.

A Fantastic Sending Off Celebration at Grandmas House...

2008-02-10T22:06:00.000-07:00

We all had a wonderful time before she left!

Elissa with Luke & Jerimiah

Luke giving Elissa a goodbye letter and picture to the right...Rebecca giving a goodbye letter

Grandma & Grandpa Urban goodbye for now!

Right picture: Elissa with Rachel Ballard

Dixie Grange with Elissa, and right Phil & Amanda Dad's friends wishing Elissa all the best!

John Grange and Dixie enjoying food and conversation!

Having fun with our missionaries one week before we leave to take Elissa to the MTC

2008-02-03T21:24:00.000-07:00

Every once in a while we have our young friends the missionaries over for dinner. We have a special dessert called the missionary dessert. We coined it "The Missionary Dessert" when several years ago we had one of the missionaries who was named Elder Heath. This dessert has Heath bar crumbs in it. We always love to surprise these fine young men when they come over with our huge dessert with lots of chocolate, whip cream, brownies, and heath bar. Their eyes always light up. These two fine men are Elder Johnson (on the right) and Elder Larmouth (on the left). If you are friends of ours we would love for you to join us someday with the missionaries for some "Missionary Dessert!"

New Years Day Photo's...Great Day in the snow on a beautiful sunny day in Colorado!

2008-01-01T21:06:00.000-07:00

44 more days till Elissa goes on her mission. Today is New Years Day and we are having as much fun as possible with the Elissa and our other kids till she goes!

All in all this little trip made the start of 2008 the best it could be.
From Janelle, Elissa, Kendra, Susan and Jim...
To all our friends, family, neighbors, co-workers...Make your 2008 the best year you have ever had!

We Snow shoe'd to the Castle in Mount Falcon Park just about a 20 minute drive up 285 from Denver:
Former Cosmopolitan Magazine owner John Brisben Walker built a castle here, but the home burned down in 1918 when it was struck by lightning. All that remains are the massive stone walls and fireplaces.

Enjoy This Blog....Opening day

2007-11-25T21:14:00.000-07:00

Today I started this Blog for Elissa. On October 15th I got a phone call from Elissa about about 11:00 AM. I was at my office. she said she got her mission call. She had applied weeks ago and had to do her preparations in order to have our Stake President push the right buttons to request her mission call. Finally on that day back in Oct/07 she called me and I got Susan on the call for a 3 way conference call. She opened her letter and after reading her letter that she was going to Argentina we all started screaming for joy. We were so excited for her. We are so excited for her and so is all our friends and family. She has a deep conviction for the Savior and to share her faith. She will bring much light and with the help of the Holy Ghost she will be an instrument in the hands of the Lord! Love...from the Urban's

Elissa Marie Urban My 2nd Daughter Has Been Called On A Mission!

2007-11-25T20:23:00.000-07:00

Elissa our 21 year old submitted her papers to go on a mission and has just been called to serve in Buenos Aires, Argentina! She will report to the Mission Training Center on February 13th, 2008!

We are so proud and excited for the decision she has made. This is a 18 month trip and will be serving with other sister missionaries for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Her main focus will be to spread a gospel message to the people in this area. The absolute focus is teaching others who are willing to listen to a message about Jesus Christ and Christian teachings.

Here are some fun pictures to look at...

Widest Street in the world!

Her smile and sweet spirit will shine!

Mt. Fitzroy, Patagonia, Argentina

Iguazu Falls, Argentina...we sure live in a beautiful world!

We love our Elissa and will miss her, but know she is called by inspiration to serve here!