I like Different

Hello family!!!
     I'm exhausted, but happy.... and tired, but still alive.  Today was our third day playing I believe. Every ones chops were starting to get really tired, so Elder Braque (our director) had us finish early. We went on a wagon ride which was really neat!

    My companion's name is Sarah Carroll. She actually went to BYU-Idaho and was in symphony band. So, I already kind of knew her. It's been awesome getting to know her better though. She is an amazing sister :) We have companionship studies in the morning and she teaches me a lot. We are going through the Preach My Gospel book. Sister Carroll is from Idaho. She plays the clarinet and she's always smiling.

When we get back home in the evening, we sing through a few songs we need to know for Sunset on the Mississippi. They're called Frog Kissin' and Invocation. We usually tell a few stories from the day and then we say "family prayer"

    We haven't had it rain yet...but I'll tell you what... It is HOT!!!!! I guess it'll get a lot more so, but really. It's steaming. Especially with the humidity. A few of us go running in the mornings when it's not super hot. When we get back, we seriously cannot stop the sweat. It's kind of gross. Haha! But really, the humidity just keeps it on. You wipe it off and it's still there. I got some sun on my first day here. so yes, the farmer tan is beginning. I kind of like the humidity though. It's different, but I like different.

     My chops = tired. We play almost all day. Luckily Sister Bjarnson (the other 1st trumpet) and I switch off a bit. Plus I think rather than get more tired, my lips are getting use to it. Which is great!

     NAUVOO!!! Nauvoo is beautiful! I love it so much. The sunrises and sunsets are always gorgeous! The people are so kind. I know I'm not a morning person really, but I don't even mind waking up to go running because it's so pretty and it's perfect temperature in the morning, and the birds are singing. I love life :) I love learning about the pioneers. Just sitting and listening to stories, I can feel their spirit present SO strongly. I have felt so close to my Savior and my Heavenly Father. Closer than ever, in these past 6 days or so (I really seems like it's been so much longer. WOW. I feel like I've been here forever.)

    I know this church is true!! I know the Book of Mormon is true. I want to be able to play the music in a way that people will be able to hear the real music behind it. The music of heaven. I love you all soooo much!! Keep working with the sheep, Todd and Kimmy! You can win :) :) Emily, how did AP tests go? Are you so glad they're over? Everyone, tell me how you are :)

Love,

Sister Israelsen