Hello!

Привет everyone!

I am sorry that my communications seem to be few and far between. It is difficult to find time to get to the Internet Cafe. Some people may not share my next statement, and that is okay. I can't believe it has only been a few days over two weeks since I arrived in Voronezh. It feels as though I have been here at least two months. It isn't the bad kind- like I am bored and want to come home. Just the opposite! I feel as though I have been here my entire life. I have such a familiar feeling in Voronezh. It feels like home almost. The only piece missing is my friends and family from back home.

The weather here has been gray and gray. I am glad that gray is my favorite weather color! The temperature has been above freezing for the last few days, and all the snow has melted. When I looked out the window last Friday morning, I thought I was back in Washington with all the wet pavement! I've had a few days of being homesick, but Heavenly Father has blessed me with so much peace and love as I adjust to life in Russia!

I am so thankful to be part of the gospel. More and more, my testimony of the truthfulness of this work strengthens. I have had to rely on myself for all my spiritual aspects. I love it! I feel like I am in "spiritual boot camp" as I am constantly reminding myself to say my prayers and read my scriptures.

There is so much I want to say, but I can't find words. The group of us teachers have been exploring Voronezh this week. We attended a performance of The Nutcracker as a ballet on ice! It was amazing! It didn't sound like the Nutcracker music at first, but I soon recognized it. The dancing was amazing. They were dancing the minuet and the polka on ice. The stage was a regular stage in the Opera Theater (a beautiful building, by the way) that was covered with ice. I thought it was a great experience. We will be traveling to Moscow for a weekend in a few weeks, and I am excited to see more of Russia.

Oh! I take the bus everywhere in Voronezh. This week, I went to church and to school on the bus by myself. I can't tell you how nice it is to know what bus to take and where it goes. I love the way of life that the Russian people have. The branch members are so welcoming to the American girls tagging along in their branch. I had the opportunity to bear my testimony last Sunday to the branch (with a missionary translating for me, of course!). After the meeting was done, the people gathered around us and wanted to talk to us. Several of the members know my name after just three weeks of attending their branch! I may over-use this scripture, but I can't help not using it again. Alma 26:16 explains my feelings right now!

I am so happy in the service that I am doing. I know that the Lord is with me every step I take. He is ever present in my heart as I am so far from home.

I love all of you!

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