Dear Family,
I'll get a little less time to write today because the computer wasn't working for a while :( But I'll try to type fast.
Today we (the YPMs), are putting on a sociable (fireside). It's going to be good, but we actually have never rehearsed it...so that will be today from 1 -5. :) It'll be really good though. It is centered on having a zion community. I'm excited to see how it turns out. The trumpets are playing "If you could hie to Kolob", a really beautiful arrangement. All the YPMs are singing, "make us one" and "invocation". you should look up the words to "Make us one" I would write them.. but it will take a while. The words are so good though.
I've experienced a lot of miracle this past week. I know the power of God's priesthood is real. I was given a blessing yesterday because I've got a infection by my wisdom tooth :( None fun... It really hurt, especially when eating, swallowing, sleeping, or playing the trumpet. (but don't worry about me, it's no big deal) So...I asked for a priesthood blessing. Elder Brague blessed me that I would be able to keep performing and the pain would leave so I could do my best work for the Lord. He also called to have angels help me. And I know that they have been with me, I've felt it. My mouth still hurts but when I play my trumpet, the pain leaves for me to play. I'm able to play just as well if not better. Although it still hurts, when it matters most I'm able to do what I need to. And I've been able to stay happy. I know angels are watching over me.
Yesterday it was raining pretty good right before pagaent. Before it started we said a prayer that included asking for the rain to stop so the performance could go on, if it was Heavenly Father's will. We began to play and the rain slowed to a very light rain during our first song. Soon enough, it had stopped.
This week has been our hottest week. Because of the heat we've had afternoon concerts inside each day, and Sunset by the Mississippi has been inside each day as well. I thought I knew what it meant to sweat before, haha :) I didn't. It's been great though. We kind of just laugh about it.
I love Nauvoo. I love the people who lived here and who are here now, serving missions and visiting. I love the prophets. I love serving in the homes. This week I served in teh Heber C. Kimball home and the Wilford Woodruff home. I feel like I'm getting to know these apostles and prophets. I love Wilford Woodruff. He was such a wonderful man. He loved the Lord and his family and was willing to do anything for them. I love it here!
I'm excited to see you all when I come home because I love you and miss you. But I'm going to miss it here. It is just going so very fast! I'm realizing I can serve the Lord so much more. I'm so grateful for all the missionaries, especially my friends who are out on missions. I know that they are serving diligently and doing their best. I love you all soooooooo much!
Love,
Sister Israelsen
