Dear family,
This is it! It's really happening....As I was packing my bags earlier today it made me excited, yet sad. I have loved my mission so much! And I know that I am going to miss it!!! Just think about it for a second. I get dropping into Halifax, me as a small town girl :) I have no idea how to share the gospel...Three months out and I train! What!! Sister Johnson and I have some of the best times. Running after buses, Steve, Hari, Andrew, Aliesja so many people we were able to teach together. Me almost leaving my mission...:( But hey mom those were some good cookies!)....TRAINING AGAIN??? Sister Hudson from London England man we were fireworks together! Learning "English" again, eating Mar-Mite, and still chasing buses. Sister Nicholls helped me make it through winter I love that girl. Eating taco's, running stairs, and oh yeah, still chasing buses. Finally my one and only transfer....Fredericton South! Thank heavens I had Sister Hamblin and Sister Brandley to help me make it through the mountains of snow! Transfer of miracles my friends! Bo xi and Brother Breau. And last but not least my little greenie Sister Davis! I am very grateful for her and all that she has taught me! Riding bikes.....seeing miracles, and living the dream.
As for the people that I have been able to teach the list in endless! Sometimes I think that those I taught, taught me more than I taught them. I wonder everyday why am I so blessed to be able to do this work!? I have taught people from Canada, India, St. Lucia, Columbia, Lebanon, Bahamas, China, Japan, Philippians, and Africa. I have loved it so much!
The mission have taught me a lot! Through adversity and trails I have become closer to my Father in Heaven. I have made mistakes and have over come weaknesses. I have failed and succeed. I have laughed A LOT and also Cried A LOT. My prayers have never been so long and my nights have never seemed so short.
My testimony of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ has been strengthened and fortified. I know that Jesus Christ lives. He is my Savior and Redeemer. I know that the Book of Mormon is the word of God and frankly my friends I know that Joseph Smith was a prophet. I love being a MORMON! And I wouldn't change it for anything! I know that by small and simple things are great things brought to pass!
Being on my mission has helped me rely on the Lord to help those I was teaching, because I knew that only he could help them. I have loved every minute of my mission and hey I still have a few more days in the field.
This past week was amazing! we had a "goodbye" dinner for me at the Hatts place on Friday night and it was so cool! For the lesson we sang "I am a child of God" and then everyone in the room bore their testimony! We had 4 investigators there! I loved hearing their testimonies it was such a tender mercy of the Lord. Also 6 investigators came to church and I was able to stand and bear my testimony to all of them. Yesterday was such a happy Sunday! Never mind that I cried a lot. But really, we taught this guy named Christian. He is from Columbia and I must say he is elect! He wants to find truth and is excited to read the Book of Mormon. He says he feels like something is missing in his life and he wants to be filled.....It was amazing! I wish that all of you could have been there!!!
Well my family and friends this is it! I love all of you dearly and I thank you all so very much for your love and support! And guess what I will be seeing and talking to all of you soon enough!
Love,
Sister Ashley Lynn Crofts
Monday, July 11, 2011
Monday, July 4, 2011
Truth must dazzle gradually...of blind all mens eye's
Dear Family,
HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!
Just so you know I sent a package home with some of my stuff in it. If it gets there before me, just put it in my room. It has some random books and stuff in it.
I have decided that bug spray, sweat, and sunblock are the missionary scent. Yum! I must say this week was full of adventures! We met with so many people and really had so much fun! On Canada Day we went over to the multi-culture building and talked to people. That was probably the best part of the day. And I fell asleep to the sound of fire works!
A lot happened, but all I really remember is riding my bike, teaching, sweating, and repeating it. But it was a really great week. I hope everything is awesome! I love you all!
Love,
sister Crofts
HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!
Just so you know I sent a package home with some of my stuff in it. If it gets there before me, just put it in my room. It has some random books and stuff in it.
I have decided that bug spray, sweat, and sunblock are the missionary scent. Yum! I must say this week was full of adventures! We met with so many people and really had so much fun! On Canada Day we went over to the multi-culture building and talked to people. That was probably the best part of the day. And I fell asleep to the sound of fire works!
A lot happened, but all I really remember is riding my bike, teaching, sweating, and repeating it. But it was a really great week. I hope everything is awesome! I love you all!
Love,
sister Crofts
Monday, June 27, 2011
O that I were an angel, and could have the wish of mine heart, that I might go forth and speak with the trump of God, with a voice to shake the earth,
Dear Family,
Ha..ha.. another week down. Crazy!! um....I totally went to Halifax this past week and it was so bitter sweet! I loved hearing the sound, smelling the ocean, and seeing the streets and people. It was sad driving over the McKay bridge for the last time, but hey I am sure I will return someday. I hope.
Sisters Conference
What do I say...it was a party! 12 sisters missionaries together...watch out! ha..ha....no but really it was a blast. I loved being in the mission home with all the sisters talking about funny mission stories, most embarrassing moments, and the fullness of the everlasting gospel! It went by way to quick, but don't worry I took a bunch of pictures! We went to Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg,and Mahone bay. Also we went to the TEMPLE!! I missed it sooooo much and it felt like heaven being able to do a session. When I was in the Celestial room I never wanted to leave. Sister Davis and I stayed in there for a pretty long time. Just the peace and clarity that comes when you go to the temple is indescribable. I am so grateful that we have a temple in our mission I have learned so much about God's plan and purpose for us here.
When we got back to Fredericton we jumped right back into the work. You know you have been a missionary way to long when you miss knocking doors. This week we got Keyang on date for July 30th. We later found out he thought it was June 30th so we moved his baptismal date to July 13th my last day in the field. He is so cool! He wants to meet like everyday and wants to do all he can to serve God. I ask myself this question everyday, but really: "where do these people come from?!!" They are so amazing!
The Melting Pot
Canada really is a great place there are so many people from different cultures and backgrounds here. I love it! At church I was sitting by someone from Japan, China, the Philippines, and Mexico. Also we went to a multi-cultural festival and saw many different people perform their native cultural dances, it was really cool. It made me a little jealous though I miss dancing.
The Business
Well now down to business. I forgot to bring my travel plans with me, but as of right now I would prefer to fly into St. George. I know it will be late, but hey it will be fun, plus I would much rather drive home through Zion than a boring freeway. Also that way all my friends and family can come to the airport and welcome me home. That's just what I was thinking.
I believe that the post will be up and running today, but I am not 100% sure. If there is anything else I missed just let me know and I will tell you next week.
Love you all!
Love,
Sister Crofts
P.s. Mom, Dad have fun camping! And Jo good Luck this week moving into you first place!!!!
Ha..ha.. another week down. Crazy!! um....I totally went to Halifax this past week and it was so bitter sweet! I loved hearing the sound, smelling the ocean, and seeing the streets and people. It was sad driving over the McKay bridge for the last time, but hey I am sure I will return someday. I hope.
Sisters Conference
What do I say...it was a party! 12 sisters missionaries together...watch out! ha..ha....no but really it was a blast. I loved being in the mission home with all the sisters talking about funny mission stories, most embarrassing moments, and the fullness of the everlasting gospel! It went by way to quick, but don't worry I took a bunch of pictures! We went to Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg,and Mahone bay. Also we went to the TEMPLE!! I missed it sooooo much and it felt like heaven being able to do a session. When I was in the Celestial room I never wanted to leave. Sister Davis and I stayed in there for a pretty long time. Just the peace and clarity that comes when you go to the temple is indescribable. I am so grateful that we have a temple in our mission I have learned so much about God's plan and purpose for us here.
When we got back to Fredericton we jumped right back into the work. You know you have been a missionary way to long when you miss knocking doors. This week we got Keyang on date for July 30th. We later found out he thought it was June 30th so we moved his baptismal date to July 13th my last day in the field. He is so cool! He wants to meet like everyday and wants to do all he can to serve God. I ask myself this question everyday, but really: "where do these people come from?!!" They are so amazing!
The Melting Pot
Canada really is a great place there are so many people from different cultures and backgrounds here. I love it! At church I was sitting by someone from Japan, China, the Philippines, and Mexico. Also we went to a multi-cultural festival and saw many different people perform their native cultural dances, it was really cool. It made me a little jealous though I miss dancing.
The Business
Well now down to business. I forgot to bring my travel plans with me, but as of right now I would prefer to fly into St. George. I know it will be late, but hey it will be fun, plus I would much rather drive home through Zion than a boring freeway. Also that way all my friends and family can come to the airport and welcome me home. That's just what I was thinking.
I believe that the post will be up and running today, but I am not 100% sure. If there is anything else I missed just let me know and I will tell you next week.
Love you all!
Love,
Sister Crofts
P.s. Mom, Dad have fun camping! And Jo good Luck this week moving into you first place!!!!
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Monday, June 20, 2011
".....Where love is, there is God also...." -Gandhi
Dear Family,
The Canada Postal strike....funny...And no I haven't received any mail. Thank heavens we have the Internet! Thank you technology!
The sun was slowly setting as we drove to Fredericton Junction. The day had been a whirlwind, and it felt nice to sit. The McRitchie's were driving us to our next appointment which was about 45 min. away. Brother McRitchie was sharing his insights and thoughts about life. To be honest dad he reminds me of you, its nice. :)
He began with a story of an old friend who had been an alcoholic all his life. He went on to say that many people past judgement and never got to know who he truly was. He explained that after his son had been killed by a drunk driver, his friend gave up alcohol, because it hit so close to his heart.
He then described a homeless friend of his who would pass through town occasionally. He recalled a time when Brother McRitchie and his friend were walking down the street together when they ran into another homeless man who had offered them half of the apple he had....pausing for a moment....Brother McRitchie then said: " You know people who could have provided a full meal to that man would have rather crossed the street, than walked past him. But they didn't see his heart....they only saw the outward appearance." Pausing again....he said: " The Lord shows His beauty in strange places."
With tears now rolling down his cheeks he described a worn and beat Book Of Mormon that the first set of missionaries gave him when he started to investigate the church. He compared it to a new set that he now owned. Explaining that the message contained in both books was the same. We as people are so quick to pass judgement. God looks at the heart and not on the outward appearance.
The words spoken on that drive deeply touched my heart. I just felt like sharing it. Remember that judgement is the final act. When we judge we will never get to know the heart.
Sister Davis and I worked really hard this week. We do every week but this week was awesome!! We met with a lot of people and many of them are progressing in the gospel! Happy Days!! First of all I just have to tell you about Chen. When we first started meeting with him he had no belief in God. Now he does and he reads the Book of Mormon everyday! So this past week when we went over to his house our main focus was on prayer and how we could help him understand more of the importance of it in his life. I don't exactly know what questions were asked, but as he began to speak he began to describe the Spirit! He said that when he prays he feels peace. As he did this he placed his hand on his heart and went on to explain the way prayer made him feel. I have never seen his eye's light up like they did that day. I was just a tender mercy of the Lord. I think to myself a lot about just how blessed I am to be part of this great work. I am grateful that my Heavenly Father lets me help Him, help Him help his children.
Also this week we taught Jessica the Plan of Salvation. It was so cool! We asked her what she thought about it, and she told us of her great grandfather that had passed away and that she didn't need to be sad any more because she knows that she will see him again! She also told us that the gospel is filling a hole in her heart! WHAT!!
This church is true, what more can I say! Also this week was my first week teaching someone from Japan. His name is Kaiichi Satake and he is soooo cool! He has a lot of good questions and really want to learn and understand. Also another new investigator named Keyang(koy-young) he is from china and he is also super excited to learn about the Book of Mormon. Plus this week we had 5 people at church! It was awesome!!
Also a girl named Lidia come to church this past week. She has been inactive for about 4 years and is coming back. This place is gold mine...what can I say....
Just so you all know I am HAPPY! I love me life and I get to go to Halifax TOMORROW!!
This week at a glance:
An investigator paid tithing! John 7:17
An investigator with conviction saying: "I have to know!"
Randomly painting a deck for man named chuck.
A talk at church entitled "Brown Pants"
interviewed on the street by some guy
Found my new favorite place in Fredericton besides my bed "Sweet Belgian Desire." They have the best waffles EVER!!
Also I have my interview with the Mission President!
A contact at the door saying...excuse me I need to put on some trousers.....
Have the best day
Love,
Sister Crofts
The Canada Postal strike....funny...And no I haven't received any mail. Thank heavens we have the Internet! Thank you technology!
The sun was slowly setting as we drove to Fredericton Junction. The day had been a whirlwind, and it felt nice to sit. The McRitchie's were driving us to our next appointment which was about 45 min. away. Brother McRitchie was sharing his insights and thoughts about life. To be honest dad he reminds me of you, its nice. :)
He began with a story of an old friend who had been an alcoholic all his life. He went on to say that many people past judgement and never got to know who he truly was. He explained that after his son had been killed by a drunk driver, his friend gave up alcohol, because it hit so close to his heart.
He then described a homeless friend of his who would pass through town occasionally. He recalled a time when Brother McRitchie and his friend were walking down the street together when they ran into another homeless man who had offered them half of the apple he had....pausing for a moment....Brother McRitchie then said: " You know people who could have provided a full meal to that man would have rather crossed the street, than walked past him. But they didn't see his heart....they only saw the outward appearance." Pausing again....he said: " The Lord shows His beauty in strange places."
With tears now rolling down his cheeks he described a worn and beat Book Of Mormon that the first set of missionaries gave him when he started to investigate the church. He compared it to a new set that he now owned. Explaining that the message contained in both books was the same. We as people are so quick to pass judgement. God looks at the heart and not on the outward appearance.
The words spoken on that drive deeply touched my heart. I just felt like sharing it. Remember that judgement is the final act. When we judge we will never get to know the heart.
Sister Davis and I worked really hard this week. We do every week but this week was awesome!! We met with a lot of people and many of them are progressing in the gospel! Happy Days!! First of all I just have to tell you about Chen. When we first started meeting with him he had no belief in God. Now he does and he reads the Book of Mormon everyday! So this past week when we went over to his house our main focus was on prayer and how we could help him understand more of the importance of it in his life. I don't exactly know what questions were asked, but as he began to speak he began to describe the Spirit! He said that when he prays he feels peace. As he did this he placed his hand on his heart and went on to explain the way prayer made him feel. I have never seen his eye's light up like they did that day. I was just a tender mercy of the Lord. I think to myself a lot about just how blessed I am to be part of this great work. I am grateful that my Heavenly Father lets me help Him, help Him help his children.
Also this week we taught Jessica the Plan of Salvation. It was so cool! We asked her what she thought about it, and she told us of her great grandfather that had passed away and that she didn't need to be sad any more because she knows that she will see him again! She also told us that the gospel is filling a hole in her heart! WHAT!!
This church is true, what more can I say! Also this week was my first week teaching someone from Japan. His name is Kaiichi Satake and he is soooo cool! He has a lot of good questions and really want to learn and understand. Also another new investigator named Keyang(koy-young) he is from china and he is also super excited to learn about the Book of Mormon. Plus this week we had 5 people at church! It was awesome!!
Also a girl named Lidia come to church this past week. She has been inactive for about 4 years and is coming back. This place is gold mine...what can I say....
Just so you all know I am HAPPY! I love me life and I get to go to Halifax TOMORROW!!
This week at a glance:
An investigator paid tithing! John 7:17
An investigator with conviction saying: "I have to know!"
Randomly painting a deck for man named chuck.
A talk at church entitled "Brown Pants"
interviewed on the street by some guy
Found my new favorite place in Fredericton besides my bed "Sweet Belgian Desire." They have the best waffles EVER!!
Also I have my interview with the Mission President!
A contact at the door saying...excuse me I need to put on some trousers.....
Have the best day
Love,
Sister Crofts
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Monday, June 13, 2011
"The sun never sets on righteous missionaries testifying of the Savior." - Elder Neil L. Andersen
WHATS UP MY FAM,
Another week.....Where do the days go! So I have had a funny week! A tiring week, but everything has been swell! First of all I just want to tell you all that I LOVE YOU!!!!!! That's the real truth, but even more than that, THANK YOU FOR LOVING ME BACK!!!
So last Monday we decided hey the sun is finally shining we should take some pictures, so we went down town and took a bunch. It was super fun. As we were heading home I was thinking to myself...this really is the life when....we got a text. Gloria one of our investigators telling us that she couldn't meet anymore. That moment of peace ended quick. We quickly called her and started walking to her house asking what was going on and if we could see her. She told us that she couldn't at the moment. My heart sunk and so did Sister Davis's. Missionary work is WORK! It takes time for people to change their lives. And that's okay with me. I thought I would be more upset, but I had a sense of understanding that one day she will except the fullness of the gospel. It just takes time. So that's how the week started and it didn't stop their.
One night we were teaching out new investigators Katherine and Philip. They live in a huge house with like 5 other roommates. One of their roommates decided to join us and is now a new investigator. Its so cool when things like that happen. The Lord knows his children. I am just responsible for being in tune with the spirit so that when the Lord places someone in my path I act. Another cool experience like that happened also this week. We received a referral from Salt Lake and decided to go and stop by. Well we were just standing outside the apartment building when in walks a guy named Chris. We ask how he is and he say, "fine, I guess....from coming from a funeral." I didn't even think I just opened my mouth and testified to him of the restored gospel and the truth that he could be with his family forever. We asked if we could teach him more and he excepted. Being in the right place at the right time is just the best.
Funny Stories
So Wednesday morning we were standing at the bus stop waiting for the bus. waiting....waiting.....waiting...it never came. Sister Davis called the bus place just to ask when it was coming and they gave us a FREE TAXI! It was hilarious. I guess we should call more often. ;)
We were knocking doors down-town when we see this huge brown dog running down the street with a guy wearing flip flops and a sweater chasing after him. Sister Davis and I stand in front and try to stop the dog, but lets face it a big dog running full speed into two little white girls...I don't think so. We move out of the way just as the dog went whizzing past. A few minutes later a lady on a bike comes peddling by asking if we had seen a dog. Later we come to find out that the guy chasing the dog in flip flops and the woman of the bike were just passing by when the dog escaped. They didn't even know it. That was the exciting news for Fredericton. ha ha good times.
Okay so the best story of the week has a little history. So do you remember a while back when I told you of the Elder that was emergency transferred because of me?! Well, anyways, this week I received a letter from him and I am so excited for all of you to read it. I was shocked, apparently he had a big crush on me and I had no idea. He wrote me a three page letter asking me on a date when I get home! I was shocked I had no idea. Good times I have to tell you!
So next week is Sister Conference and I am so excited! I get to go to Halifax! Well I hope that I do! But its going to be great! Just pray that it doesn't rain the whole time. We had some pretty awesome thunderstorms here this past week. And some good sunshine. Who even know what this week will bring. We met some way cool people this week, lets just hope that something comes from it. Well my family I love you all so much!!
Also we have been praying for opportunities to do service for the people and let me tell you "ask and ye shall receive." We have dug a whole pile of gravel, weeded a garden, and next week we are helping a woman clean her house! Happy days! I love helping people!
Spiritual Thought
So we went to contact a referral yesterday and it made me so sad. I like to ask people who Jesus Christ is to them, just so I have a better understanding of where they are coming from. Well usually when people say oh yeah, Jesus he was cool. He was just a prophet, or I just think he taught good things. I can brush it off. But yesterday when this woman told me that she puts Jesus Christ in the same category as Martin Luther King Jr. and Gandhi I really hurt my heart. Because I know for myself that he is the son of God. He is my elder brother, Savior, and Redeemer. He suffered for me and for all of us. I often think which drop of blood did I make him shed for my sins and mistakes. I will be eternally grateful just to know that through Jesus Christ I can return to live with my Father in Heaven and be with all of you forever! It makes me smile! I love that everyday I get to share this blessed message many!
Dad I bought you a card for Fathers day but I dont' know when it will reach you, so HAPPY FATHERS DAY!!! I LOVE YOU SO MUCH AND I AM SO PROUD OF ALL THAT YOU ARE DOING! YOU'RE GREAT!!!!!!!!!!!
LOVE,
THE COOLEST
SISTER
CROFTS
Another week.....Where do the days go! So I have had a funny week! A tiring week, but everything has been swell! First of all I just want to tell you all that I LOVE YOU!!!!!! That's the real truth, but even more than that, THANK YOU FOR LOVING ME BACK!!!
So last Monday we decided hey the sun is finally shining we should take some pictures, so we went down town and took a bunch. It was super fun. As we were heading home I was thinking to myself...this really is the life when....we got a text. Gloria one of our investigators telling us that she couldn't meet anymore. That moment of peace ended quick. We quickly called her and started walking to her house asking what was going on and if we could see her. She told us that she couldn't at the moment. My heart sunk and so did Sister Davis's. Missionary work is WORK! It takes time for people to change their lives. And that's okay with me. I thought I would be more upset, but I had a sense of understanding that one day she will except the fullness of the gospel. It just takes time. So that's how the week started and it didn't stop their.
One night we were teaching out new investigators Katherine and Philip. They live in a huge house with like 5 other roommates. One of their roommates decided to join us and is now a new investigator. Its so cool when things like that happen. The Lord knows his children. I am just responsible for being in tune with the spirit so that when the Lord places someone in my path I act. Another cool experience like that happened also this week. We received a referral from Salt Lake and decided to go and stop by. Well we were just standing outside the apartment building when in walks a guy named Chris. We ask how he is and he say, "fine, I guess....from coming from a funeral." I didn't even think I just opened my mouth and testified to him of the restored gospel and the truth that he could be with his family forever. We asked if we could teach him more and he excepted. Being in the right place at the right time is just the best.
Funny Stories
So Wednesday morning we were standing at the bus stop waiting for the bus. waiting....waiting.....waiting...it never came. Sister Davis called the bus place just to ask when it was coming and they gave us a FREE TAXI! It was hilarious. I guess we should call more often. ;)
We were knocking doors down-town when we see this huge brown dog running down the street with a guy wearing flip flops and a sweater chasing after him. Sister Davis and I stand in front and try to stop the dog, but lets face it a big dog running full speed into two little white girls...I don't think so. We move out of the way just as the dog went whizzing past. A few minutes later a lady on a bike comes peddling by asking if we had seen a dog. Later we come to find out that the guy chasing the dog in flip flops and the woman of the bike were just passing by when the dog escaped. They didn't even know it. That was the exciting news for Fredericton. ha ha good times.
Okay so the best story of the week has a little history. So do you remember a while back when I told you of the Elder that was emergency transferred because of me?! Well, anyways, this week I received a letter from him and I am so excited for all of you to read it. I was shocked, apparently he had a big crush on me and I had no idea. He wrote me a three page letter asking me on a date when I get home! I was shocked I had no idea. Good times I have to tell you!
So next week is Sister Conference and I am so excited! I get to go to Halifax! Well I hope that I do! But its going to be great! Just pray that it doesn't rain the whole time. We had some pretty awesome thunderstorms here this past week. And some good sunshine. Who even know what this week will bring. We met some way cool people this week, lets just hope that something comes from it. Well my family I love you all so much!!
Also we have been praying for opportunities to do service for the people and let me tell you "ask and ye shall receive." We have dug a whole pile of gravel, weeded a garden, and next week we are helping a woman clean her house! Happy days! I love helping people!
Spiritual Thought
So we went to contact a referral yesterday and it made me so sad. I like to ask people who Jesus Christ is to them, just so I have a better understanding of where they are coming from. Well usually when people say oh yeah, Jesus he was cool. He was just a prophet, or I just think he taught good things. I can brush it off. But yesterday when this woman told me that she puts Jesus Christ in the same category as Martin Luther King Jr. and Gandhi I really hurt my heart. Because I know for myself that he is the son of God. He is my elder brother, Savior, and Redeemer. He suffered for me and for all of us. I often think which drop of blood did I make him shed for my sins and mistakes. I will be eternally grateful just to know that through Jesus Christ I can return to live with my Father in Heaven and be with all of you forever! It makes me smile! I love that everyday I get to share this blessed message many!
Dad I bought you a card for Fathers day but I dont' know when it will reach you, so HAPPY FATHERS DAY!!! I LOVE YOU SO MUCH AND I AM SO PROUD OF ALL THAT YOU ARE DOING! YOU'RE GREAT!!!!!!!!!!!
LOVE,
THE COOLEST
SISTER
CROFTS
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