Exchange, Seattle Temple, and our little miracle

Wow time is flying! I've been in the WA-TAC for 8 months! It feels like so much less and so much more at the same time. Every second is so great. Monday night we went on exchanges and I went to Bainbridge Island with Sister Bishop (love her!). It was great, I think I learned the most about myself and where I'm at in my spiritual growth this exchange than any others. I was asked some very soul searching questions that I will always be seeking to understand more. We met some really interesting people and I had it reaffirmed to me that every second of every day we need to be reconfirming our testimony of the Savior. Its so great! One big take away from exchanges. Ether 12:27 says,

 "27 And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them."

Notice it says weakness not weaknesses. Our weakness is that we are in imperfect mortal bodies. Everything else that we view as weaknesses is merely the tools we must use to fully rely on God. We are only weak when we aren't trusting in God.  I'd encourage each of you to evaluate yourselves. Make a list of your "weaknesses" then next to each thing you write list how that is a strength. If you can't think of how it's a strength ask God and He'll tell/probably show you.

Wednesday we went to the TEMPLE! My big take aways for you is first off, the church is without a doubt God's church restored to the Earth. Second. God has commanded us to be happy! How loving is that?! Thirdly is this time we have been given here on Earth to learn, to grow, to experience so many things (that all lead to experiencing joy) its all a gift! God's love for us is immeasurable. We are all SO blessed. I'm sure there's at least one of you that will read this and think, "how is what I'm dealing with a gift?" I'd encourage you to pray and ask God. And maybe also read one of my favorite chapters in the Book of Mormon ( https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/2-ne/2?lang=eng ). But if you're going to read it you have to read it open to God giving you the answers He will give not the answer you necessarily expect.

Last little thing (well only little in one way HUGE in another) is our precious little Knotia (nuh-tie-a) which some of you may remember me mentioning in past emails is getting baptized on Saturday! She is so so so precious! Words can't express then love I have for this little girl. She is such an example to me and I just pray one day I can be as brave, loving, and trusting in God as she is. This little girl literally danced when she realized she's less than a week away from making a eternity changing decision. She's stolen the hearts of everyone around and its such a blessing to be able to watch her begin her journey to Christ.