La que ve de vache - (that cow)...

Oui, si il y a quelqun qui sais mon sujet, je l'ai mangé.  

Anyways, Bonjour encore tout le monde ! 

Ugh I am so happy to hear from you all. This week was amazing ENCORE. Not going to lie I am currently on a train with my district going to a chateaux called Fontainebleau, chez Napoleon if you will, to play at a parc and visit the castle. Alors, this email will hopefully be good.:)

Monday 

MON ANNIVERSAIRE. Okay so I already told you all about what we did. But there was something BETTER that happened that night. Okay so you all know about Joël, our amazing Amis. Well, at 18h00 we go back out to contact, we approach a bus stop and get a phone call from Joël. He goes, "Soeur Dunkley, Soeur Kennington!! I have a present for Riley, and I saw you guys at the bus stop and I didn't want you to see me so I hid myself." We were both like GAH why did you hide lmao!! It was so cute. Anyways, he met up with us and bought me a chocolate toffee bar and REALLY expensive truffles. I was shook, it was so sweet. He also shared a very personal and powerful experience in his life that brought me to tears. There is one thing to note that the adversary works like no other to progressing investigators. But with that said, Joël has expressed complete devotion and perfected hope in all of his trials. Needless to say it was a great experience. 

I also received a BOMB package from my family. Literally made me cry. So much love. Shout out to Jensen for the petite lettre she gave me :) 

Also big shout out to my mom and sandrine for making le plan de Salute pictures for our lessons!!! Y'all are amazing. 

Tuesday I honestly don't remember haha I'm so sorry I'm still on the train. 

Wednesday 

We were on exchanges again, soeur Bakly and I went to this one woman's house named Emma, she was SUPER interested in us as cute little missionaries, however not sure if she was interested in the church. Anyways went to her house and she was so amazing!!! She was the cutest little crafty woman I've ever met. We talked about le livre de mormon. 

Pray that she continues to be interested. 

Friday 

OH MY GOSH. What a wild adventure ok. So last dimanche we met this girl Larissa, in our ward. She is brand new coming from Africa. Anyways, she wanted to meet with us today, but she honestly lives in the middle of nowhere. We had about two hours of travel time, we were super sweaty. When we arrived, our directions led us to a hotel in the middle of nowhere. She told us that she was 40 MIN away. Lol, her friend jeni, came up to us and said we could wait in her house with her until Larissa arrived. While waiting in a very tiny 500 sqr ft  room on top of a bed, menu, Soeur kennington, and a baby named jade sat in silence lol. Me no thought we were temoin Jehovahs, so it explains why she didn't respond to us (as of course we tried to talk to her about the book of Mormon on). Anyways, 30 awkward minutes later, Larissa Sprint in, along with three croissants and short breathes. We all talked about the book of Mormon and the power of it. Soon after she entered in two other African woman and their babies came in and were like OH you guys aren't temoin Jehovahs???? Quoi??? Of course not ladies.. Anyways they loved our message. We ended the night with so going hymns all together, it was super spiritual, even the babies joined in lol! I loved it. There is a picture of us three. 

This week we had a lot of aggressive people during contacts, shouting abrasive remarks and what not. It triggered me at first, but then I remembered that I have the spirit with me !!!!!! We said a prayer and felt the comfort and clarity the spirit will ALWAYS bring. 

Everyone read 2 Nephi 31:13-14 

With the gift of the spirit we can have the language of angels. When those people made those awful remarks, we bore testimony of our truth, and co tinted on. As soon as we bore testimony, they were immediately shut down (in a positive way). But I saw the power that we have. Really cool experience. 

Anyways, I love you all. I love this gospel. It continues to strengthen me each day!! Also France is just so beautiful I can't get over it y'all!!! I'm in france!!! Quoi!!!

Love your Soeur Dunkley 

Birthday in Paris!

HELLO! can you believe it I am 21 years old holy cow. Time is just out the window that’s for sure. This week was so good. So so good. So tranquil. 

So today for my birthday 

MY SOEURS SURPRISES ME WITH A PIÑATA and NAILS AND JUICES AND HATS UGH. 

Also the elders woke me up with a happy birthday it was precious. 

I got an ammonite bracelet from Madagascar from this woman off the street, she was so fun. 

I had plans to go to Paris and to a million things but unfortunately I'm as sick as a bag of rocks so we're doing that next week. Today we are PAINTING and FACEMASKS and spa stuff for my head lol. Super nice 

Currently sipping on herbal tea.

Joel 

Joel is an investigator of the church; he is COMPLETELY prepared. I love it. We literally don't even have to teach the lessons he just talks it out with us and gives insights. He came to a ward activity on Sunday and made two QUICHES for everyone is that not just the sweetest?? He is so strong. Love him. Also his testimony is unreal. 

OH yeah so Tuesday we ran into this woman who had these fun gel shoes. I asked her where she got them and she grabbed me and said Morocco, give me your number I will buy you some I'm going back. QUOI???? after lots of bickering we finally said ok and so she's going to bring us some back. People do that a lot here. Her name was Ursula but she was nothing like the one in Arial. 

Thursday 

EXCHANGE DAY AGAIN 

Soeur bakly and I went on another adventure that’s for sure. We taught so many people. And DIDN'T GET LOST that s for sure. I felt prompted to talk to this one woman on the train, we taught her about the book of Mormon and Valerie (her name) absolutely loved our message. We also met a man Malik from Pakistan, he didn't speak French but a little English. Basically he moved here a month ago to look for work.... in the chicken fighting industry....anyways, I bore testimony of the BOM and then PROMISED him that if he reads this he WILL find work. Bold move I know but I can do that. Anyways, I didn't say in chicken fighting but you know we will see how it goes. It was a powerful moment nonetheless. 

Saturday 

Tranquil!!!!! 

We basically went finding in these Parks near Paris and it was just so beautiful. Also found so many amazing people to talk to. 

Mother's day :) 

Happy mother's day mom!!! And grandma!!!! And all my aunt's and SISTERS and FRIEND because all ya’ll took care of me at one point lol. I am so grateful for all of you. 

I got to see my family and my puppy.  NOTHING will top that. I love you guys to the end. I was telling them that since being here and seeing French families, I am so grateful for mine. Y'all are so fun. 

I love you all. Thank you for being in my life. I am here because of you all. 

That and God haha. 

I am too blessed!!!!!! 

Also I'm painting too and nothing could make me happier! 

Jacob 3:1 

Sorry it's short this week. 

Soeur Dunkley 

Springtime in Paris!

Okay well if my email got lost then that is really upsetting!!!! So i guess I'll have to write it again!!!  

Okay so shortened version of this week because my email got lost. 

Tuesday Wednesday we had Blue conference at the mission home. 

It was so amazing and spiritual and great food !!! 

Friday went on exchanges and that was a blast!! 

Saturday met PATRICIO. Luckily I had this portion saved :

We just met the most amazing, funny man, we were headed to Noisy le grand which is another Ville, and we stopped to talk to a lady who obviously wasn't interested, but that wasn't the main focus. This man, named Patricio called us over and began asking a ton of questions about the book of Mormon. Which was such a blessing because soeur Kennington made that her goal to teach the purpose of the Book of Mormon and we did!!! So he kept asking about our church and what we believe, and right after he would say: but see your church doesn't apply to my church in Africa and we were like what this church, this book is for everyone?? Where are you from??? And he shouts ANGOLA. Ok my heart just falls and I go OH la la, mon frère a servi son mission en Angola!!! Il a habité là pour 2 année.   He just about died Connor he was so happy, I gave him your Facebook so if a Patricio adds you then please except because it's his salvation were talking about. I told him about Luanda and how crazy it was and then we talked about funge? I don't know hot to spell it. And he literally described the butter churning technique that they use or whatever it was so fun. Anyways, he HAD a book of Mormon in his backpack, and he said nope I've never read it because I don't know these prophets. I stood there dumbfounded haha. Patricio!!!!! What a slump you are in!!! He was so animated, he opened his book of Mormon (which by the way he had scribbled in all the gold lettering on the front lol) and went " ce qui MORMON? Psssh  ce qui ALMA?!" I capitalize their names because he was actually shouting at the train station. Anyways after lots of testimony and explanation we testified to him that we know this book is true. He loved our message and is coming to church with us dimanche  :))) 

He came to church in yellow pants lol it was priceless. He's super interested Connor and mason you would love him. We have the coolest handshake. 

We had so many miracles this week. I am so grateful.  On Saturday night we also met this little old Chinese man, his name was neang. We were locked out of our apartment for a while, so he sat and talked with us about tacos, Donuts, and kolaches LOL. his niece owns a donut flash kolache store in Houston so we bonded over that. The next day we were contacting, and Liam literally ran up to us with his cane and raised to arms and said HEYO SISTERS  Right in the middle of our contact it was so funny.

 Also, Ashlyn and Jensen, The flowers here are stunning!! You would absolutely die at how beautiful everything is. There's also a lot of carousel to hear which I mentioned to you all and individual emails but I thought I'd just check that out here as well. Can't get enough of this place, it's also starting to warm up so I'm not suffering anymore.

 Anyways, a lot of other miracles happened, but unfortunately it got deleted. I love you all and please read 1 Nephi 2. Try to read it with your family and apply those teachings, they are super powerful and moving.

Much love 

Soeur Dunkley 

!st week in France: Area: Nogent (Paris)

Bonjour tout le monde !!!!! 

Hello hello!! This week was absolute. I have one word to describe it, FAITH. This week I needed a lot of faith in myself. The reason I say this is because my trainer and another soeur are STL’s for our mission, which basically means that they hold other responsibilities in the mission that often require them to pair up for conferences and things like that. Welllll that other soeur (soeur McDonald) is also training one of my MTC soeurs, soeur Bakly. SO basically we have to do exchanges, which is basically switching companions for the day, for the rest of our companionships!!!!! This is so fun but y'all!!! I don't know French!!! Lol it's been a funny ride. To start: 

Tuesday, Mardi 

Youssefa

OH MY GOSH. what an experience I just had I'm currently sitting in the basement of one of our chapels.  a couple days ago we stopped a man named musica about 20 years old asking him what he thought on the Book of Mormon. He's Muslim, 20, and he's here studying electrical engineering at a University.  

After conversation he decided to meet again with us today, we gave him a lesson on the beginning of the restoration just done God is I have Lee father he blesses family we talked about profit and Christ in the straight here on earth so right before the lesson, I had an actual breakdown I didn't feel like I could teach someone this gospel. I didn't feel like anyone would actually listen to the words that were coming out of my mouth. But after my colleague again I collected my thoughts we went to the church, and both talked about Jesus Christ. we talked about his atoning sacrifice and the purpose of that sacrifice, was for us. It was so we for our progression to that we wouldn't go through this life alone. my colleague let me give a small description on the ministry of Jesus Christ and it was so great to talk about it because my colleague let me give a small description on the ministry of Jesus Christ and it was so great to talk about it because I knew it was true and the words are coming out of my mouth I don't really know if a lot of the made sense but it made sense to my head so it probably did. And then after she gave a few remarks, she turned to me with the cocked eye brow..... AND I ASKED HIM OF HE BELIEVED THESE THINGS TRUE TO BE BAPTIZED. AND HE SAID YES. A REAL HUMAN BEING SAID YES TO MY WORDS. It was solely the spirit of course. But I felt useful!!!! And for the most part I could understand everything he was saying!!!!! What in the HALIBUT. There is truth in our words!! I am so sweaty right now. Oh my gosh. 

One thing I really gained from this lesson is the power a unified companionship brings, we were in sync and it was the first time I felt that way. I need to recognize that I have God's power, all I have to do is ask. So incredible. THEN HE PRAYED?????? AND HE THANKED GOD FOR BRINGING THESE PEOPLE INTO HIS LIFE. Ok my goodness at this point my heart is in tears, I have so much love for him!!!!!!! Wow. What a changing experience. This was my first real on discussion with an Amis. I am so grateful for this gospel. For the POWER and reality, it brings, there is nothing more fulfilling than working with the spirit to bring someone closer to God I can testify of that. (probably other things too but you know) anyways I feel like a lil missionary right now ugh I'm so happy. We meet again Saturday. Wow. What a day. 

Mercredi (Wednesday) 

We had a district meeting this morning and discussed what tactics we could use that would improve our contacting. One act we have been working on is starting it off with a testimony. Kind of bold, but the French people need bold lol. So we practiced a bit and co tinted on with our day, WELL the first person I talked to I bore testimony of eternal families AND HE WAS LIKE WOW I REALLY LIKE WHAT YOU SAID and I was dancing because I was so happy. His name was Erik, mais, he lived in southern France so we told him that we would refer him to this missionary down south. He was like ok will they call me and avec le force we said yes!!!! Anyways that was a tender moment. 

Jeudi, this is where the exchanges come into play, Lol today was such a mess. Haha, I am just giggling in this cafe just thinking about it. But soeur bakly and I were companions for the day, we had two rendez- vous or meetings with two women from our ward. We were an hour late to the first, because first off transportation alone took 45 min, but then we kept getting wrong directions from other people and low and behold we were goners. Fatoumia, the woman we were meeting, had to walk outside to come look for us. Once we got in, she made us this quiche that was so good and healthy and had broccoli OH I loved it. But she told us her conversion story. Literally y all she talked for 50 min straight. Couldn't get a word in lol. It's cool. But she is so inspiring. She lived on an island and was pretty much the only member in that whole island!! Big inspiration. Anyways, after that we walked and took buses to mariellas house and we only 30 minutes late to that one, can you just imagine two girls walking aimlessly around France to find this house because it was so funny, and I naturally walk really fast so soeur bakly was having a hard time keeping up. We finally made it after lots of prayer and faith and she fed us an amazing Peruvian meal WOW it was v good. After that it was time for contacting, yikes. This was it we were on our own. Also in the middle of nowhere. I know more French than soeur bakly so the responsibility was really rested on me that s for sure. But we ended up talking to this family and they love our message!!!!! I just opened my mouth and they loved it, I bore testimony of family. IT was very joyful. 

Sunday, soooooo busy. But Joel that sweet man!!!!!! He came to church again. He has such a spirit. He told us he's in a play and he wants us to watch him. I'm of course joel????? He's progressing a ton. Really love talking to him. And one thing I love is he really appreciates my efforts. French people don't often give you the time of day especially if you don't speak that well and he does so it's comforting.

Anyways, just got done with Notre Dame, currently in Paris in a cafe having a croissant. Nothing could be more quintessential than this very moment. I'm loving it here. 

Also I think Saturday I had McDonald’s for the first time in like 8 years and it was gross. 

Last note, God loves us all so much, he gave us the power to choose. Yes, that is power. Know that there is POWER in your righteous decisions, even though they may be hard, they will bring power I can promise you that. In any moment of your life, no matter how big or small, God will establish his power to you through your small and simple chooses to do good and move forward. 

Love you all. Wish me luck!!! 

OH also as to my heading it's currently raining and like 40 degrees so yes I'm dying. 

Will send pictures later love u all God bless 

I made it to France!

With President and Sister Sorensen

Bonjour ma famille de Nogent!!!!! 

Pouvez vous imaginé??? Je suis en France!!  It has been an absolute crazy week. First off. It feels like I've been here for ages, that's not a bad thing, but it does feel like I've been here for ages lol. To start 

Last week at the MTC. So currently in on le train with my comp. We're going to a cathedral called Sacré Coeur tbat overlooks pretty much all of Paris. Ugh it's so beautiful here, there are flowers EVERYWHERE. I cannot get enough of it. Anyways, quick story of today and then recap if my life in Nogent. So we are on the bus right, not expecting to talk to anyone really because it was a busy moving crowd. Well a guy approaches us and said in French wow I didn’t know there were girl versions of y'all!! I was dying I said bien sûr monsieur??!! Which basically means like ummm yes of course? Anyways. We talked the whole way up. He was super interested. So we invited him to meet up with us another time and just as I said that he shouted ugh this is my stop!! I was in a panic when he threw at me his card pretty much and said please call me and ran out the door. It was unreal. Miracles am I right everyone. 

Okay arrival day

First off crazy flight, almost 10 hours, oh and guess What, there was another stewardess who spoke French on the plane lol so I talk to him forever. Kurt. 

Ok, so we landed in Paris and were given for lunch a fresh baguette, orange, cheese and pain de chocolate, it was all sooooo good haha. (I’m going to need a ton of those lactaid pills mom) Anyways, met with President, did a bit of contacting in the streets and then got assigned to our comps. I am companions with Soeur Kennington!!! From Kaysville Utah. Sweet thang. 

 Okay so Tuesday or Wednesday I don't really remember which but we went to this. members house named Soeur Neombolibona, she's from central Africa. Soooooo sweet oh my goodness. She was being so patient with my French. Anyways she made us some oil fried African chicken and rice (it was literally the size of my head) and told us that we had to eat it all before we left. I was laughing so hard bc I just started down at this massive bird thing, but anyways we someone finished after sharing a message from alma 15, and then she gave us 4 more chicken thighs!!!! What. Lol 

Our apartment is SO cute, there are 6 soeurs living together and were on the 5th floor. There are tulips on our balcony an it's super tiny. We share one bathroom lol. 

Later on this week we went to the temple with an investigator or amis de l'église or amis  for short.  IT WAS SO BEAUTIFUL. her name is Amil. Ugh she had an amazing time. The spirit was so strong. Sadly, afterwards she said I'm super happy with my church and think she will stay there, she is Muslim. However, she wants to continue to read the book of Mormon so I'm praying and y'all should too.

 

Ok the language is so hard. But people are nice and listen to me. I'm super hard on myself which I need to work on bc doing the language is utterly impossible so I shouldn't get discouraged now if I don't get it immediately. 

But I will say that the gift of tongues is so real and has literally brought miracles to our plate. 

Speaking of plates this week was hilarious because we actually lived on just potato and green beans lol I came in when there was no food. It's okay I'm full now of a baguette but it made me laugh bc we would play Russian toilet with who got the last chick pea. 

Anyways, last thing. Joel. What a miracle, he as a man that would pass us on the street like 3 times this week. We would stop and say hi and give him a message but he usually politely declines. But this time we asked him again if he would come to church and he said yes!!! And he came!!!!!! What! When he came he said during Sunday school that these two missionaries must be a sign from God so that's why I am here. I was so touched. Joel was a sign of God to me that’s for sure. Anyways I'm super short of time but I love you all so much and sorry if I don't get to y'alls emails quick enough but we don't have Wi-Fi here so it takes a bit to get everything. 

Thanks for the love and support. Also sister Nakata I will look out for Esther this week!!!! Way cool. 

Love you all and this gospel!!! 

Everyone read Jacob 5: 71-75. How can you be a part of his harvest??? How can you endure to the end?? Umm never deny sharing your testimony of course. 

Okay love you all again 

Soeur Dunkley 

Last P-day in the MTC!

Oh my goodness, Bonjour toutes les mondes!

Greetings from my LAST P=day in the MTC. Good gravy would have never guessed I'd say that. How on earth has it already come to this time? I leave for France Monday morning; my flight is at 5 p.m, but we have to leave the MTC around 11am  and land in France at 11 am the next day. That's a lot of sitting. I remember mom and I went on a flight to LA together and both of us would have to stand in the isle just to stretch our legs within the span of 3 hours, compare that an astounding 12 hours, gonna be fun. 

Anyways, this week again, as the others, literally flew past me. But yeah, all I can say is that God really wanted to utilize our time here at the MTC for this last week, because we had so. many. responsibilities. But to begin! 

Sunday

FAST sunday, ou Dimanche de juene ( can't find the button for the apex oh well). OH my gosh, I will say this with full conviction, fast Sunday at the MTC is the most difficult, trying, task I have EVER had to accomplish. lol, obviously I made it out alive. But it was also incredible. Our sacrament began at 8:30; before Soeur Larsen and I sat down, our Mission President Newell, approached us with a hand shake, and whispered, okay so I forgot to tell you but we decided to call the both of you to be Sister Training Leaders (that basically means that we preside over the girls of our zone). Anyways, we were both shell shocked because we are leaving in a week!!! It is a fantastic opportunity don't get me wrong, but it came as a shock. Anyways, we were called lol, and I will say it is so much fun, even just for a week I love being any service to the MTC. It's kind of nice having a calling again because you know were in class for the majority of our lives right now, there is not a lot we can offer, so I appreciate the responsibility. That night we had a devotional, once I sat down, I turn to my right and Elder Worlton has a movie theatre size bag of peanut M&M's literally bulging out of his jacket, it was the funniest thing... fast Sunday. For the Devo, we had a choir come to the MTC and I kid you not DAD AND ASHLYN it was identical to the Huncthback of Notre Dame. Again, not at all what the devo was about, but I thought of ya'll the whole time. The choir was called Witness Music, it was sooo amazing. They sang about the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. My favorite part of the entire show was their portrayal of Peter. He had such loyalty to the Savior, and yet he denied him, even though it was commanded by Jesus Christ, I would not be able to live with that guilt. But then, being in Peter's shoes, to actually SEE the Savior again. Yeah, I would leap into a river too Peter. Christ immediately forgave him because he knew where Peter's heart resided. So powerful. 

Continuing on my notes for this entire performance consisted of " That was beautiful, He is the Resurrection, This song sounds like Disney, Imagine the devotion from the disciples of Christ, and wow I am in a Disney Broadway musical" lol. 

Monday 

THE BRIGHTEST DAY OF MY LIFE. also note * FIRST TIME IN MTC that I did not have a jacket on all day. Ugh, it was 70 degrees pretty much the whole day. Finalement am I right?? During the morning we skyped this women named Reese for our TRC ( teaching members in French), she was so dainty and pure, loved her. We talked to her about the importance of the Saint Cene ( Sacrament), and she explained to us that her husband has been in the hospital for a couple of weeks because of issues with his diabetes. The way she portrayed the story almost brought me to tears, so pray for them. They are good people.

On a brighter note, I got my brighten your day package fam :))))))) oh my goodness ya'll spoil me too much. While opening it all I had in my head was "Jesus wants me for a sunbeam" anyways thank you.

Wednesday 

Today was so extremely busy, our district got called again to host, so we did that in the morning, I just the sweetest girl going to Pennsylvania, Sister Pope, THE BIGGEST AND PUREST EYES I HAVE EVER SEEN. She will change so many lives. Immediately following that we taught two lessons with Veronique and Florence, we took them on tour de l'eglise, or church tours, and the spirit was insurmountable. Veronique agreed to be baptized!! Florence is still working on quitting smoking, so please pray for her. I told her that every time she feels guilt, that is called Godly sorrow, so in essence, Florence, YOU are beginning that repentance process, all you need to do now is ACT on that feeling, don't reside there, utilize the Atonement!! simple lol. anyways she promised she would try. 

So that night our district (our district consists of Me and Soeur Larsen and 4 other Elders) was asked out of the entire MTC, to participate as demo missionaries leading a seminar of new incoming missionaries. Basically what that means is, is an investigator comes to the MTC (real investigator ) ours was Jose, and We demonstrate in front of missionaries that arrive that day on how to basically get to know your investigators needs. We met Jose and lead the seminar and oh my gosh he was the sweetest guy, from LA, 27, working in International Relations. After our part, we gave time for the new missionaries to ask him questions. THE FIRST ELDER THAT STOOD UP GOES, " Jose, how can you apply Christ's Infinite Atonement?" and Jose is like what on earth is that lol. anyways the second question a girl stands and goes " WILL YOU BE BAPTIZED " and Jose just giggles and goes I mean potentially maybe?? It was funny, but then as they kept getting the hang of it and asking more questions, the spirit filled every corner of that room. Jose opened up about his struggles to all of us, with himself and his family. We prayed together and he said he had never felt a feeling like this, yup Jose that's the Spirit. We watched over the class from the back, but Jose looked at me with a face of gratitude and I swear I just about lost it, this is what God feels; when we feel his love and can visually reflect that off of our faces!! Jose smiled and waved and mouth thank you to me and you know what, skipping class was so worth it to witness God perform miracles for Jose that night. 

Thursday 

Literally running out of time so all i remember is mom brought me a box of Chip cookies and I shared them with the new missionaries that came in.

THEY TOLD SOEUR LARSEN AND I that we were their role models and I stood there like COME ON. That's so not true, but I realized that at this point, all the happiness I may portray, the diligence I have, (which is not a lot believe me, i do try though) that all comes from the power of God, if i thought i could do this all on my own I would be home by now. BUT, i rely on his word and his hand every day. So that's what they see, someone who relies on the Lord, and I felt better thinking about it. But also stressed bc now i have ten girls watching my every move. lol 

Well that’s pretty much it, today IT SNOWED?????? We went to the temple around 6 again to do ceilings, that was my last time in the temple for a fat minute. I’m going to miss it so much. anyways, today were just packing and frantically getting everything ready for PARIS!!!! Oh also, I probably won't be able to email until about two weeks later since we will be traveling on our P-day. So still email me but I just won't respond for another week lol. 

Anyways just a thought 

This morning I was reading about Faith In Jesus Christ and His Atonement. I was reading in Moroni 10:22

It explains the process of miracles. True faith brings miracles, visions, dreams, healings and EVERY GIFT God has to offer. But these Miracles do not come before our faith, faith is the action that brings a reaction. Therefore, we cannot expect miracles to occur with a lack of faith. We need to gain our OWN PERSONAL knowledge of our Savior to literally recognize and receive the miracles He is waiting to give us. I wish I could touch more on this but I have to run. 

Dix Jours (Ten Days) till France!!

Bonjour Ma Famille et Mes Amis! 

I am so grateful this week, grateful and overwhelmed oh my goodness. Mais, le don de langes est vrai!! The gift of tongues is true!! 

Okay first off, CONFERENCE. 

Conference was incredible, I have to admit, we began our day with a lot of complaining, we had to sit in these stiff chairs for more than 4 HOURS, I missed the waffles and blankets. So Soeur Larsen and I wore the BIGGEST scarves ever to use as blankets during conf it was a good time.

Immediately once we sat down, the Spirit confirmed that this is where we needed to be. It was absolutely breathtaking to participate in the solemn assembly, for those of you who don't know necessarily what that means: our prophet Thomas S. Monson passed away and because of the amazing stewardship and organization of the church, we were able to sustain our new prophet, and dear friend to Monson, President Russel M. Nelson. This meeting was held to hear the words of the apostles and new prophet. There were so many talks that I just absolutely loved. However due to the sake of time I'm just going to briefly cover a few. First off, Lynn G Robbins, wow. As soon as he brought up the subject of failure I immediately thought of French -let's not forget the one time I called Jesus a girl- he mentioned that failure is a tutor, not a terminator. This stands for all parts and pieces of our lives!!! Every time you fail, think of a way to rebuild, reconstruct and reconfigure, Houston didn't just abandon those houses destroyed by the hurricane, Thomas Edison didn't quit after his first explosion, they kept going!! Failure is here for a purpose, it can be such a tool to help us relate to others and develops ourselves. Practice thinking differently on the outcome of your mistakes, I promise you, you will receive blessings. With that said, Christ helps us not only to overcome sin, but overcome the failures of our hearts. Be sure to distinguish the two. 

David A Bednar taught us to always remain Meek, that word is so powerful. It encompasses everything that Christ is and teaches. One thought I loved, was that Christ, on the way to be crucified, used his Heavenly Power to heal a soldier’s ear, that same power that could have prevented his suffering. Can you imagine having all that God has to give, and not using it for yourself? But to save the lives of others? Really puts life in perspective. 

Sunday Afternoon was INCREDIBLE. Did anyone else jolt in their chair over Bishop Gerald Causse? He is a bishop from France. He talked about the construction of the Paris temple, and the process to complete it. The spirit was definitely involved with that, the mayor was completely supportive after their look and investigation into the church. The lord knows what’s up there. Also I loved how Causse's talk was all about the people and their covenants to God. That is literally all the God needs, is us, and our promises. Inspired. 

AND OH MY GOODNESS THE TEMPLES.

I cannot believe that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is able to establish a temple in a place like Russia, where so much religious and political issues collide; we have accomplished something that would take 10 times longer in our government. This could potentially be an aide to our foreign policy and relationship with Russia, India and so on. Absolutely God sent. The Church is so forward I love it. 

and shout out to Sister Dumas for getting a temple in Richmond Virginia, you go girl, you pushed that work along.  

After conference, the sister missionaries had SUCH an opportunity to have a private meeting with Sister Elaine Dalton, one of the most inspiring women I have ever met. She talked about never giving up. I love this quote " You never make a decision to turn back or quit when you're on a hill", it’s so true. We cannot give up when it gets hard, otherwise, why even try? Our trials and experiences in our lives are meant to strengthen us just like that hill (and just like my squat workout). 

After the devo, I realized I left my water bottle in the room, so Soeur Larsen and I went back and low and behold there is Elaine Dalton! We got a pic and got to chat with her, she looked me in the eyes and told me keep going, God loves you, and I just melted like jello I mean common. Anyways here are the pics.

Oh we had chick fila for dinner on Monday and it was amazing.

Wednesday, I got to host today!!!! That basically means that we bring in the new missionaries and make them feel comfortable and basically distract them from being separated from their family.  I had a girl named Sister White, she was so cute, from Australia, going to Saint George. We toured around all day it was so fun. Got to show her around. 

I leave for France in 10 days..... 10 JOURS. Can you believe it?? I'm so excited yet nervous as well. 

Today was amazing, we truly spoke our language!!!! Soeur Larsen and I had a crazy idea. So we were sitting in class and were going over passé composé, and Soeur Allred (our teacher) is conducting the lesson. We have to teach Florence in 15 minutes. I, OF COURSE, have an impression to change our lesson plan 15 MIN before it starts. We were changing from the restoration to repentance so two very different topics. But the spirit told me, so we did, bless her heart. AND it was one of the best lessons we have ever heard. We have been praying for Florence for a while. She a real person investigating our church, in real life she's my teachers brother in law. Anyways, because of our prayers and meetings these past couple of weeks Gary (real life Florence) threw away ALL of his alcohol. All of it!! And he watched conference it was a miracle!! We prayer so hard. So this lesson we talked about completing that repentance process and how faith brings repentance which bring the spirit and baptism. All in all, amazing lesson. We read Enos 1:4-8,12 and we told her to place her name in the scripture.

Afterwards I bore testimony of how repentance has changed my life. Because I used that gift of the atonement, I saw a whole new light in my life. I care more for others, I think more clearly, I have more motivation, I know I have power in my words AND conviction in my words, I know God loves those he places in my life, I have new hobbies and goals, I am more patient, and I know I can rely on him. Granted I am NOT perfect. AND I still struggle with more is these characteristics; but that's the thing about improvement, it's continual, Christ never said get to this point and stop. He atoned for our sins so we could break our barriers and become like him. 

ALSO FAMILY THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART FOR THE EASTER BASKET. THANKS bc now I miss you all more than ever. 

Finally Spring at the MTC!

Oh my It is a BEAUTIFUL DAY here in Provo, 

Thought I would never say that, but it is FINALLY SPRING! J'espere. Gosh I miss you all so much. FIRST OF ALL HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY LITTLE FLOWER. Happy 17th Jensy :) I hope you got my letter and you know how much I love you??? a ton. anyways have a good day with Phoebe, glad she could fly down. This week flew by so fast, a lot of routine stuff happened, so we will see if I can remember it all. BIG NEWS and honestly I don't know if I mentioned this last week but IM GOING TO FRANCE EARLY. Our whole zone for some reason is only in the MTC for a little under 5 weeks instead of 6. Which has really put me in my place because I am so stressed yet excited? But yeah, apparently there is a special conference they all want us to be a part of. Exciting Rumors are going around but I'll just keep those within these walls :) But to start: 

Today:

Today is our P-Day, which means, going to the temple. We go at 6: 15 in the morning lol.. Yeah.. BUT it is so worth it, because not only are you in the Lord's house, but you get their breakfast as well on the bottom floor ;) so that’s fun. My companion (Soeur Larsen) and I have been skipping and running outside all day (can you just picture it) because it is an astounding 60 degrees. Another blessing, when we did laundry and Elder gave me THE REST OF HIS DRYER SHEETS. exciting no? hahaha, that was the peak of my day. 

Thursday, we had a workshop, and something funny and weird happened to me. We were told to partner up with someone other than our companion for an activity, so we all stood up, and there was an Elder who came up to me and said "Ok who goes first?" with a cocky tone, I hesitated but continued on, he literally would not participate because he said it was a waist of his time, I was so done. Then by the end of the activity we were told to leave the "investigator" a pass-along card, basically saying go visit Mormon.org. We obviously didn't get to that point given his already struggling motivation, so at the end he shouts to me, "wait we never exchanged pass-along cards, can we meet at exercise time and do the exchange" literally SHOUTED ACROSS THE ROOM. I stood there like what?? haha Elders.... yeah well now every time we see each other I see him split a 180 over to my table or classroom and he asks about these cards that we need to exchange and if we can trade emails too, don't worry guys I've locked my heart. anyways, Thursday, we learned more French. And as exciting as that seems, it was a bit different. Yesterday we learned a couple new concepts that I had honestly never heard of. It was the first time I had felt completely inadequate in the language. Soeur Larsen and I left the class and I just thought to myself, how am I going to learn the language to teach these people about the gospel. How? I started tearing up, just feeling down, and Soeur Larsen said something profound. God did not call me to France because I would be good at the language, or because I took in earlier and had a head start. He called me to France because I can (to the best of my abilities and with the Spirit) convey the message of the Everlasting Gospel to those living in France. It is all about the PEOPLE. That is why I am here, it is not to perfect French (which I will in due time lol) but to share my testimony and do the Lords work as best as I can. Anyways, that helped me a ton. ALSO MOM, sent me yet ANOTHER PACKAGE of Sweet Tooth Fairy Cupcakes, yes mom I get it I need to gain weight hahaha, but thank you so much. My district absolutely loved them. and my teachers, I gave them some as well 

Wednesday Soeur Larsen and I were in a trio with our dear sweet Soeur Morrison, she's from the Philippines, so spunky. But we were all working out and I pulled out my workout band things haha (thank you jensen and mom), and I made all the girls in my zone do an arm and butt workout with me. it was so funny because I was like their coach, after the next couple of days they've just been like we hate you were so sore, but they love it its fine. I also got a package from my sweet macey and he wrote all over it. pics below its super cute. 

Tuesday was special. We had our first lesson with another investigator (mock lesson for practice, it was actually our teacher Sr Allred), her name was Florence. She had a bunch of addictions, super depressed, and wasn't sure on how she could continue life. As we kept talking with her about the Plan of Salvation, she grew to be more receptive, I read a scripture from Romans 8: 16-18, " For the Sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us", after reading that. She froze, and the Spirit filled the room. I told her that life will continue to get hard, in fact, because of your desire to grow closer to God, it may get harder! But our trials will become light, and as we rely on God and Jesus Christ, we will GROW, that is an absolute, it’s not an indefinite answer. IT applies to all; if you try your best at acting on your desire, listening to promptings, trying with your heart, you will be fortified, and the sufferings at this moment, will only be a memory. They will not COMPARE to the person you have become. She loved it, she felt the hope we had been praying all week for her to find. She said she would work towards Baptism. Good stuff. Now again, this was my teacher, so it was nothing new, but when we returned into the classroom, she started to cry, she said that Florence was someone real in her life. And she had been praying on how to help her. She felt comfort and guidance from the messages we gave her to help Florence. It was amazing. 

Monday was a sad day, brought a lot of people closer together. We found out Sister Davidson (a 19-year-old) was going home. She said she had had some mental problems that she needed to resolve, and so it was her time. Didn't really get to know her but she told me I had an influence on her. Wasn't sure how, hadn't really talked to the girl. But it was there, going to miss her. We also found out that Elder Kuia is going home too. He tore his ACL while playing basketball and has to have surgery. I told him about Mason and he has SO MUCH RESPECT FOR YOU MACEY because he can't imagine having two legs injured. Needless to say you're a tough kid. anyways, Elder Kuia is from Hawaii, he's 23 and honestly ya'll he is one of the most amazing people I have ever met. After he turned about 18 he fell away from the church and some terrible experiences happened, but he has had a huge change of heart while working towards coming back, his testimony is so strong, he is so kind and had such a way of testifying how the gospel works! I’m sad he's going home BUT he will return after surgery. He needs to. Keep him in your prayers.

My whole district calls me Mere Dunkley (which basically translates to mama Dunkley) because of the amount of work I make them all do and also the amount of treat I bring (referring back to the cupcakes). It’s a good time. 

Anyways my time is a bit shorter today. But I want to leave you with this story: 

Sister Larsen and I had TRC's this week, (don’t know what it stands for lol) but basically we meet with members and give them lessons in French. We had two meetings with Ryan and Frere Mahaffey. We had a whole lesson plan in French to go over and guess what. NONE of it was applicable to what we were discussing. lol, but that’s okay because we obviously had the spirit that day. I felt prompted to pull out my scriptures to a story I had read previously THAT DAY, just a small excerpt in Alma 15. Zeezram, ( a convert to the church) was so full of anxiety over the lost connection of Alma and Amulek ( missionaries) and his own sins, that he became physically ill. Bed ridden. Once Alma and Amulek heard the news, they quickly met up with Zeezram to give him a blessing. Prior to the blessing Alma asked, " do you believe in the power of Christ?", he responded yes, " do you believe that you can be healed through him?" YES, he cried. So Alma continued his blessing and Zeezram leaped upon his feet. it was that simple. Think of the power Christ has in your life, think of the faith you had to obtain to overcome trials. With Christ, all is possible. I love this Gospel and i know i am meant to be here. I am so Happy :) thanks for the support and love. i love you all so much! 

Soeur Dunkley 

Trip to San Francisco for our Visas!

Bonjour Mes Amis! 

This week brought so much light into my life. so much happened, and so many spiritual experiences took place. First of all, on Tuesday (we had to take care of some unfortunate travel details regarding Belgium. That country has really asked for it. In order to enter into the country, you have to give yet ANOTHER blood sample and stool sample... yeah, YEAH. So our whole district got called into the health center. When it was my turn for the blood draw they pricked at my arm and said yup we're sending you to the clinic, you've got small veins, so that was nice, leaving the MTC. The fresh air was well worth the pain of that needle. AS FOR the stool sample, that's another story. Sooo, basically we had all day to take care of it, and I COULD NOT GO. It was the absolute worst. I did NOT deserve that, lol but we found out we had an hour left before the clinic closed, so I was in a panic, finally my comp and I said a prayer.... haha.. low and behold I was blessed and all was well. lol). That night, we had our devotional. my colleague and I decided we wanted to join the Choir, we were performing the song was called Precious Savior, Dear Redeemer. Oh my goodness, let me say this loud and clear, that song is heaven sent ya'll. sooooo powerful. I loved it. 

Anyways for the devotional, we had Elder and Sister Renlund, they both had BEAUTIFUL profound messages for us, one of which being Faith without Works is dead. If we want to succeed it is ESSENTIAL that we have faith in ourselves. I've learned while being here that you will not progress if you are just working as hard as you can to get the job done. Faith is required to provide DIRECTION, guidance, and overall comfort during times of stress and disorganization. it’s true. try that out this week. 

Wednesday was a wild time!!! We went to San Francisco!! MOM your favorite!!! We had to meet with the French Consulate to prove we were missionaries; it was so crazy. Okay to start, we woke up at 2:30 am for our flight, come to find out that we were 1 1/2 hours early so we all know how I was doing. (not a morning person). Anyways, we got to the airport and I GINGER SHOTS so naturally I dropped some coin (5 $$) on a 2 oz. vile lol... it was so worth it. Got on the plane, met some cool flight attendants, and entered into HUMIDITY!!! Finally, haha. everyone was giving me grief over the stickiness of the air but I loved it. Once we got off the BART (train) we were immediately immersed into the city. You guys it was like a movie, I kept running into people, back to back talking with people from all over the world.  it was awesome. While walking to a place called Super Duper Burger (yes I did get one) we met two men from Montreal and spoke French with them, they quickly ran off though because clearly we were beaming with tourism. lol we looked like goobers. but anyways, once we got our food, the burger place started playing Anderson Peak and Chalka Kahn and I just about died... started dancing for sure. Afterwards we went into a CVS and witnessed a ROBBERY take place it was nuts. I just wanted some postcards?? All was well though, the woman said this happens every week, ugh I felt bad. 

We continued touring around the lights and talking with fun people up until we had to get back on our flight home around 3:30 (flight was at 5). When we arrived at the airport, a man approached me and asked if there were Elders with us, I said yes, and he asked if he could have a blessing!! He was a member, who threw out his back and needed immediate help. It was surreal you guys, our Elders performed a blessing in a chapel in the airport. So Inspiring, so in sync with the Lords timing. 

As we approached our gate, we look to see our flight was delayed 4 HOURS. So we played 20 questions in French. Soeur Fears and I went to grab some sushi and this 22-year-old waved at me from afar; come to find he was a missionary returning home from Leeds, England!! We told him to come sit with us and he kept saying funky stuff like cheerio and right on, with an accent of course. 

We also met a man named Lawrence from Northern England; we had the most peculiar conversation. He explained how he was similar to that woman from the movie 'Lucy'. He said that he hasn't slept in 4 days and how he spent most of his time doing intense body weight-yoga. Fun times. Anyways, he opened his heart out to us about some trials he had in his life, and we ended the night with a spiritual discussion. It was well worth the delay. 

So that was Wednesday haha. I'm sorry for the lengthy email. But I had to share this with you guys because honestly who else would I tell?

Oh and I forgot to mention, one man on the street offered to trade acid for Elder Christiansen's shoes and tie. Not going to lie it was a close call on our part. Pretty convincing trade. 

Yesterday, my colleague and I had one of the most amazing experiences by far, here at the MTC. We have been teaching lessons with an investigator, Mélanie- btw this girl does not speak a lick of English so hand gestures were a must-  she's really into the church and every lesson she seems to understand. But she always asks okay, well how does this apply to me!! Tonight was different, our lesson was on le Plan de Salute (the plan of salvation), she just got married, so we approached the plan with an emphasis on eternal families. Parfait non? Anyways, we read scripture, shared the importance of this plan that God presented to us in the preterrestre vie (premortal life), and applied it to building up your own family, ultimately being able to live with them for all eternity. She got super quiet as soon as we mentioned how it would affect hers, we asked if she was alright and she said it would be difficult with her family and started to tear up. I had a prompting to bear my testimony about how the plan has blessed my life and how it WILL bless hers, the spirit was guiding me through the entire lesson, French was just flowing out it was unreal, and she understood!! It brought tears to our eyes, and she felt a peace. Afterwards, soeur larsen asked if she wanted to be baptized and she said yes! (Eventually lol, she said not today but soon) We helped her say her first prayer and honestly, the French language enhances everything Because the spirit was all around us. It was amazing. I knew I had a love for people but my heart feels fully invested in Mélanie' s happiness, it's absolutely incredible was the gospel brings. 

 Because of the plan de Salute, I have witnessed miracles in my family. I have been able to see them progress in small, profound ways, and very large ways. Life will continue to be hard, but the thing is, is that when we progress in his plan, it unifies our families, and collectively we grow into disciples of Christ. 

I know this Gospel to be true. I know I can do hard things because of it. I love you all and thanks for the support. 

Soeur Dunkley