Looking Back while Moving Forward

Well, its been over a year and I figured that its about time I post a few photos from my last week in my mission. After all, it was one of the best, most eventful weeks I had! It included Jaime and Daniela's wedding, which turned out perfect thanks to the help of the branch, but more importantly their baptism in the beautiful Buffalo River. Then came the hardest part of my mission, saying goodbye to everyone :( The Memphis temple and sleepover at the mission home with all the returning missionaries was such a blessing, especially being able to spend time with the spanish hermanas that I grew so close to. So grateful for the photos I have to help me remember all these wonderful times. And a few pictures never hurt anyone right? So here we go! 

Their wedding cake was so cute!

All the missionaries with the newlyweds

All of the women in the branch... and Jaime ;)

Such a perfect family

The best time of year for a wedding

How I miss them!

So perfect!

#Goals

Elizabeth was the most adorable little girl.

Couldn't get enough of this cake.

True Love. 

The happiest day at their baptism in the Buffalo River.

Saying goodbye to my best friends.

More goodbyes.

Love them!

Favorite pic of Elder Dyorich and I

Where it all happened

Just sneaking a peak ;)

Hasta Ver!

All of the returning missionaries at the Memphis Temple

Jumping for Joy. Mission accomplished.We get to see our families soon!

#ALRM Best mission in the world

Pres. and Sis. Wakolo

The blanket Sis. Ashley made me. Love her!

One last goodbye to Sis. Foster.

Got to see Luis, my first convert the night before we left. 

Driving to the airport

Last goodbye to the Bowens. Love them!

"Where you go, I'll go" Amorcita

All in all, if I had to go back and do it all over again I would in a heartbeat. I never knew how emotionally challenging a mission would be, all the heartbreak and devastation of people rejecting the gospel was worth it. It was worth it because I was able to create lasting friendships and experience the true joy of those that were converted. I was able to change and understand how the gospel can bless our lives as individuals and families. The gospel changes lives, and it sure changed mine. I wouldn't be who I am today if it weren't for the Atonement of Christ that allows us to start over. I wouldn't be able to be sealed to my family or husband and be with them throughout all eternity, which is one of the greatest blessings I could ever ask for. As I look back on my mission, I am eternally grateful for all the lessons I learned and people I met. And that gives me strength to move forward.