A busy week for everyone

November 5, 2009

Mom, I don't really know what to do with this letter, I just kind of vented and let everything out.

Wow. I cannot believe all of the news from home. My heart is overwhelmed and I wish I could be with all of you. Especially Tanya and Devaun. I feel so much for you. I just found out all of this today. We only get mail once a week and there was a problem this week, so I feel a little isolated. I was able to talk to Dad on the phone this week, but with Presidente breathing down my back I didn't feel too comfortable really talking. I will keep Uncle Mel in my prayers and all of the Cranes. Tanya, I love you so much and I think of you all of the time.

I have been thinking so much about the Plan of Salvation this week. We have been studying it and preparing to teach all week. After I found out about Grandpa I had to ask myself: "Do I really believe this?" The answer is yes. I know that the Savior has a simple but profound plan for each of us. He intends for all of us to be happy and a large part of that includes being with our families forever. I know that this gospel is true and I know that Christ is the Savior and Redeemer of the world. I know that I have little power to help anyone while I am so far away, but I just want to extend my love to everyone, my family, and especially the Cranes.

Mom, I love you so much. I wish I could be there for you. I would imagine you are carrying a lot of weight with Grandpa's funeral and such. You have such a useful and valuable hobby. The story that sticks out most to me in my mind of Grandpa is how hard he laughed as I learned to drive. At one point I found myself driving in the wrong lane of the highway and I will never forget how hard he laughed. Somehow I cannot help but picture him laughing happily right now.

We don't have much time, but don't worry about me. I am happy. We recieved 5 more Latin sisters today in la CCM which is a huge relief. We will get to know each other quickly since tonight we have to fit all seven of us in our TINY room until other accomdations open up. They don't speak a word of English, so Sister Miller and I will have to fight to keep up.

I am loving the DR. The culture is so similar to Chile. The streets are just a crowded, noisy, and hazardous. Sister Miller just cannot get over the fact that there are several open man-holes in the sidewalks and she is TERRIFIED to cross the streets. She also cannot believe that people sell food, stickers, and home decor in the streets. I love it all and I truly feel at home.

I love you all so much!

Hermana Palmer