I've stopped counting.

Well, it's been a pretty uneventful week. I don't have a whole lot to say. (Let me make the joke for you, I know you're all thinking it:) "That's a first." Nice. Reeeaaally funny, family.

The only exciting news I have to offer is that Ithe solo sticker came off on Wednesday when Sister Simpkins entered the megadistrict. It's true, for the first time in 10.5 weeks, I have a companion. (Ok dad, I'll just get it out there, I KNOW you're thinking it:) "The companions on your mission are probably the only companions you'll ever have." Nice. Reeeaaally funny, dad.

It's a new thing for me being with someone 24/7, but I like her lots!

I'm pretty sure she likes me too. Just this week she turned to me and said: "You know, you've been a really good influence on me."

I waited to hear the gems of spiritual enlightenment I'd brought to her soul.

She continued: "Today I sat down by Elder Peterson and asked, 'can I have that cookie?' and I thought, 'that's something Sister Smith would have said."

Well, I guess we've got a solid foundation to build on.
Speaking of sweets... and solids... I opened up a sweet, solid milk chocolate DOVE that summed up quite nicely the things I have been learning this week. It said: "Think lovingly, speak lovingly, act lovingly."

I've found as I've been here that that is really what it's about. It's what EVERYthing is about: loving others, serving others, and forgetting yourself.

I've also found that I think about #1 a lot more than I ever realized! And the days I'm thinking about how I'M going to do this, or what I'M going to say, or even how MY mailbox got given away...those days are rough! And it's not until I'm sitting in bed relfecting on the days events that I get a little slap in the face and rememeber that this isn't about ME.

And when I forget myself and work with pure intentions, with the intent to help all those I meet, when I'm serving... then I'm happy.

And it's just that simple. It really is just that simple.

So, I'd really encourage all of you to do something nice for someone else this week. :) Then write me and tell me about it, cuz I love getting mail.

P.S. I got to see Josh a bit while I was here too! That was awesome. This is his rad companion, Elder Goodman.

I only have 30 seconds left, I love you lots!!!

--Sister Rachel Smith