Sister Jessie Louder: I'm in Australia now :))

Hello everyone!! The past two weeks have been so exciting. SO many changes. So many new faces and so many new places haha!

I finally made it to Australia. I got to see and visit with Laura Mulholland at the SLC airport before heading off! The whole situation was a miracle! I am grateful for all her love. Seeing her definitely made the whole trip a lot easier. I know Heavenly Father was aware of us at that moment because I think we both needed that extra love.

The flight was soo long but so worth it. It is beautiful here and the weather is amazing. I am obsessed with the palm trees. It is a bit strange seeing Christmas decorations in this hot weather since I've only ever experienced Christmas in the snow, lol. This time change has been hard, but I am getting used to it.

There is so much smoke in the air from all the bushfires, but we are safe! My companion is from Brisbane Australia, so she already is a pro at driving on the opposite side of the road and she is great at killing spiders and cockroaches. (SO THANKFUL) She is originally from Hamilton New Zealand! She is the sweetest and I love her. I am in Hebershem [suburb of Sydney], in the Popondetta ward. My entire ward is Samoan except for two Australian families. They feed us loads. People call my district the Heber-fat district because missionaries in my area are known for gaining weight. Oh well, haha. I have a full stomach all the time, so I have no complaints. The other night I had three huge dinners, all from the same family!!!! So awesome, haha.

But in all seriousness, I love it here. It is hard sometimes when I think about how far away I am from home, but I know this is where the Lord wants me to be. I am surrounded by so many loving families and I know my Heavenly Father is watching over me.

My comp had the worst cough this week and it was affecting her teaching, so she decided to get a priesthood blessing. After the first lesson we walked out of the house and my comp looked at me and said, "Sister Louder, I didn't have to cough once that entire lesson." This was a tender mercy from our Heavenly Father, and I know that there is power in priesthood blessings. When we humble ourselves and ask for His help, He will help!! Our Father in Heaven loves us, and He will strengthen us so that we can move forward.

We did lots of finding activities this past week. The reality of rejection hit me, but I know that there is always that one person looking for the truth and joy that comes only through the gospel of Jesus Christ and I know Heavenly Father is preparing them for us. Inviting others unto Christ and helping them feel more happiness is the best. There is nothing I would rather be doing than this work right now. I love my Savior, Jesus Christ, and I know that it is only through Him that we can receive the comfort we need and the courage to push on when things seem too tough. Turn to Him and rely on His mercy and love, always. Continue to look for the small miracles every day. They are everywhere.

I think about you all often. Make this week a good one and try to see the good in every situation. I JUST LOVE YOU ALL SOO SO MUCH! Take care :))) Also my Pday will normally be on Monday (Sunday for you) just so you know!!