A Little Taste of Foreign Holiday

(This is Brittney.) I finally found my thumb drive with all my mission pictures on it! In the middle of reviewing said pics, I found this video. It's really low quality and really shaky, but it is one of the few that I have.

It was taken on November 26th, 2006. I had been companions with Sora (Sister) Nettesheim--we called her Sora Nett--for about 2 months (she is the one sitting at the table). Then what should happen? President Ashby (every mission has a mission president that oversees all the missionaries) sent us a new companion! We became a threesome, which didn't happen very often in Romania back then. We were loving it! We had a lot of fun together. But this day, November 26th, we found out that Sora Valcaneantu (VUL-KEN-YAN-TSOO) was leaving again, and we had only been together for two weeks. To capture the moment, we put it on video.(By the way, I say "pa" at the end which means "bye" or "ciao")

My mission was one of the happiest times of my life. Not because I was vacationing in a foreign country, but because I was working hard and serving people as much as, and as best as I could! Well did the Savior say, "For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it" (Matthew 16:25).

In fact, it was in this same area, in Brasov, that I met a young man who helped me realize this truth. We had been teaching a young woman named Iuliana (YUL-LI-ANA) and she seemed really interested.  She wanted to share what she had been learning with her boyfriend, so she brought him with her to one of our discussions. We tried to go about our lesson normally, but it was clear that her boyfriend (I don't remember his name, but for the sake of the story, I'll call him Sam) had only come to antagonize and deter us.

Sam asked, "Who are you?" Confused by his question, I tried to explain what we had already told him before, that we were missionaries from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and that we were trying to share a message about God and His plan.

He shook his head, "No, who are YOU?" and he pointed his finger at me.

Still a little confused, and praying that I could answer his question correctly, I told him that I was Sora Durfee. I was a daughter, of God. He had sent me on this earth to learn and to grow. Because I knew this, I had purpose, and because of His son, I could better myself every day.

Again, the young man shook his head. He was getting angry (which is not the reaction I had hoped for). He said, "No. Who are you without God? If someone were to ask ME that question, I would say, 'I am Sam. My favorite color is. . .I like to. . . etc.'"

Stunned, I contemplated his question. I actually don't remember what I said after that, but I couldn't get over it, "Who are you without God?"

It is true; I could have told him my favorite color or my likes and dislikes. But in all reality, I would be nothing without God. It is He that gives my life purpose and meaning. It is for Him that I try to do everything. Granted, there are times that I forget to put Him first and I only think of myself, but when I succeed in doing things for Him first, and for myself second, my life aligns in the best possible way. I am a daughter of God, and I will try to act as such. I will try to serve His children as He has asked me to. Christ served others all His life. He gave the example of the Good Samaritan and then he said, "Go and do thou likewise" (Luke 10:37).

Life is so much more fulfilling when we dedicate our time to God, to helping other people and making them happy. It is in serving others that we discover who we are, what we are good at, and where our true potential lies.  And you don't have to be on a mission to taste that fulfillment, either. It can happen every day as we make time to notice, and meet the needs of those around us.

P.S. Iuliana eventually broke up with that boyfriend and then after some time, and after I had left the area, was baptized.

The Decision To Serve: Confessions From The Heart

I have contemplated how to write this entry since the creation of this wonderful blog. Some of you might be confused on why I would give up 18 months to live in a foreign place to preach a religion. I want to help you understand why this is so significant and hopefully share with you the happiness I feel every time I think of the work soon to come. (This will be a LONG entry. Long but worth it! So keep reading and bare with me! :D)

I know NOW that from the very beginning the Lord planted a mission in my path but I was completely oblivious probably to the point of even purposely ignoring. Just a little more then a year ago I was convinced I would be married by the age 21. (21 was the previous age girls could go on a mission.) I was taught not to give up the chance to be married to go on a mission and to be honest I was excited to be married. That was my goal. Marry Chaz Green right after he was home from his mission. I couldn't (possibly wouldn't) see an alternative.

Then Andrew came along. Haha oh Andrew. I will be honest, he kinda forced himself into my life. I made some mistakes in the beginning when switching my love interest. I didn't cut it off with Chaz before kissing Andrew (though I like to say he kissed me first, but I kissed back). The reason for this was the fear. I liked the feeling of having tight control over my life and was absolutely terrified of it spinning out of control. But look there was life going crazy making me quite dizzy. I was confused and tired. Both boys told me to make a decision that I didn't want to make. Then during one of the many DTRs (Defining The Relationship known at BYU) Andrew and I had, he said something that hit me pretty hard. "I understand that Chaz has been your safety blanket for a long time. I just don't want you to make this decision because of fear." I decided to consider it once more before making the final decision. He left and I went to bed.

I lay in bed for a long time, tears might have been involved and out of desperation I reached for my scriptures in search for some answer and some peace. I just opened to a random spot and started reading and then I found it the Answer to my problem. Not the boy problem, but the controlling my life problem. It is in the Book of Mormon Mosiah 24:15 and it reads "And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; yea, the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord." That's it. The answer. The Lord knows more about me than I do. I need to release MY grip on my life not grudgingly but cheerfully and let the Lord take it in his gental hands. And so that scripture became my motto in life. When face with a big decision what really matter was what my Heavenly Father wanted and not I wanted, though 8 times out of 10 we wanted the same thing.

So I let go which included Chaz. Andrew and I only dated for 4 short months but because I was now open minded I learned so much more in those months then I did in my past 3 year relationship. I came home a new person with a bigger better goal. I was becoming who I was meant to be and I was SOOO happy.

I then headed out to school once more. BAAM! Life threw a curve ball, my swing missed and it hit me in the gut. I was completely penniless and jobless. My parents ended up paying for everything... and I felt awful. No, not just awful worse then that. Every time I would talk to my mom on the phone crying was in order. Plus there was this feeling I couldn't shake off. That I wasn't where I was suppose to be but I knew that home wasn't the place for me either. I prayed and prayed for an explanation. I didn't get one and the feeling didn't leave. Then the announcement happened...

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints holds a meeting every six months called General Conference. Our modern day Prophet speaks along with other seers and revalators. Every member around the globe tunes in to this to learn new things about our Savior and his direction. The very first session President Thomas S. Monson stood up and announced this. Yes, you have to watch to hear what he announced.

My answer. I was suppose to be on a mission. Not at home, not a school, but sacrificing 18 months to preach something I know with out a doubt to be true. But this revelation wasn't just for me. This effected the entire world. Here is a video. Its of a graduating 2012 class in Utah and them receiving their calls after this glorious announcement. About 104 teens received their call or are planning to soon. Now it is 14 minutes. You could just watch 4 minutes to understand the impact it has had on peoples lives.

And now I will add the video of me opening my own call to serve. I google talked with my brother and sister-in-law who are in St Louis, my two sisters and brother-in-law who are in Idaho and my best friend and cousin who is in Utah. So my entire family was there! It was a special day! 

 

 

I am beyond excited for this amazing opportunity! I am so grateful for all of you and your influence and your love. I wouldn't be who I am and I wouldn't be worthy if it wasn't for all of you! ALL of you! If you are reading I know you really care because this was long. I am truly thankful and amazed at the wonderful people placed in my life and yes, Jeff, that includes you! ;) Until next time!

 

Beauty In The Snow

I have yet to convince Brittney to post more stories. If not about the JACKET then just about her amazing mission in Romania and pictures. I would love more pictures and I am sure you do as well. In the meantime, I'll try to keep you entertained by my own posts. Hopefully you aren't too bored or annoyed. However, I do enjoy writing my story even if its just to get it down so that one day my sisters and I can put it in a book.(:

So! You want to know one of the hardest parts in preparing for a mission? Clothes. I'll tell you why for two reasons.

One, Modesty. Growing up as a Mormon it's always been easy to dress modestly. BUT! Now that I wear garments it's to a whole new level. Shorts and skirts need to now go down to the knees. My shirts must always have a sleeve, can't show to much of the armpit and the neckline needs to come a little higher than I'm already use to. (I've never really been a cleavage sort of gal.) That being said and the standards set a little higher, shopping in today's world has grown more difficult then to what I'm  already use to.

Two, the cost. When buying dresses, blouses, skirts, and dress shoes girls know that getting good quality stuff is not cheap. However, I found out that CLEARANCE and THRIF STORES are the place to go! I have found so many great clothes! I also found an amazing sale!! shadeclothing.com is going out of business and skirts, blouses, and dresses once 50-60 bucks are knocked down to 12 DOLLARS!! No joke! I was pretty happy. I might have got clicking happy because soon enough my cart had 23 items and the cost reached $334. What just happened?? Did I just do that?! No way that could have been me! O.o

I mentioned in the last post that Missouri was hit by snow right? Well, another storm came through this one giving the girls not two but THREE snow days! The second day my sisters and I survived a winter photo shoot*. Alex wanted me to point out she even went barefoot. Here are some of our fun/amazing/freezing cold pictures. I would also like to say I have some gorgeous sisters! Don't you agree? And yes, the Traveling JACKET made an appearance.(: Enjoy!

 

Rosamund Durfee

 

We just had to get some cat pictures! -.- Rosamund and her cats...

And yes, a Lion King picture DUH!

<3

 

Alex Durfee

<3

I think she was cold... >:)

This is the normal EVIL Alex...

She tossed a huge handful of snow and it came down to hit her in the face. JUSTICE.

 

Josie Durfee

The umbrella was my idea! Genius!

 

I almost lost her to the wind but I saved her, No Big Deal.

 

Failure at blowing snow at the camera but a awesome face!

<3

 

Charlee Durfee

A win at blowing snow! YES!

I love this dress!

And this Book of Mormon!

 

Mommy Durfee

This is where we get all of our good looks! My mommy is so pretty (and not old!)!

*Disclaimer. We are missing one sister because -glares- she's a poop head and moved away! We miss her so much! BRITTNEY COME BACK TO US!

 

 

 

Home Is Where The Heart Is

I was a rough teenager, I'll admit it. I wanted to do what I wanted and if it meant hurting my family I was willing to risk it. I finally went off to BYU, thousands of miles away and hit the reality wall pretty hard. It didnt take me long to write my mom and apologize for all the crap I put her through. I realized finally that my goals were all twisted around a boy and not my Heavenly Father. When I came home from my freshman year at BYU I swore I would take this short time to make it up to my family. It worked I fell in love with them more then I ever had been. I finally became that big sister my little sisters always wanted.

This last fall semester when I made the spontaneous decision to go on a mission my heart hurt to know that I wouldn't get much time with them if I went for winter semester as well. I got down on my knees and asks for direction. It was almost instant. I knew that I needed to take the next semester off and spend as much time as I could with mi familia.

With family as my new focus I totally felt a greater spiritual influence. I've grown happier and content with the way my life has played out. Its so amazing the way the Lord works because while filling out my papers I just knew that I should still be here for my sister Josie's graduation. I knew that it would be a long wait but this gave me the opportunity to work a bit and get some money in my pocket.

Coming home though was a little tough. All my friends that are my age are now on missions and though I love my younger high school friends it would be nice to hang out with people my age. The first two months were... amazing. (You thought I was going to say awful, didnt you?) The reason for this was I had one friend Grant Ward who wouldn't leave for his mission till February 6th. We weren't very close when I was dating Chaz but he was still a great friend none the less. These last two months gave Grant and I an opportunity to become even greater friends. I might have developed a little crush during that time but that's besides the point. Now that he's gone I've become a hermit. Life doesn't exist beyond the home and if it does its only when I'm out with my mom.

My poor mother. I wouldn't be surprise if she's sick of me. I am with her almost all the hours of the day. However! She hasn't said anything yet so I'll just push until she says stop. ;) When it comes to my siblings they feel guilty every time they go out on the weekends leaving their sad 20 year old sister at home but I don't want them to miss out on fun because of me (though I am The Fun). Its just one of the small price I've gladly paid to be home this semester.

This past Thursday the Midwest was hit with a huge snow storm and the schools here think that even if we only get a foot of snow there is no way school can be in session. But in all reality it makes sense here. We might only get a foot of snow but we also get two inches of ice that rests on top of the snow. Take a look at the picture below it might look like a wintery wonderland but if you would take a step out on the snow it would be like walking on a frozen lake. While in St Louis this weekend I walked across a yard of snow and I was reminded of The Dark Knight Rises. Exile or Death and I was sentence to Exile. To walk on the frozen river. It ended happy for me, not because Batman showed up only because its just snow and my life isn't that exciting. The girls had two snow days. For me it means two days of not bugging my mom so much and more time to bug my siblings. I enjoy snow days! Haha

So for those teenagers out there who think they are suffering because of their parents, my advice is to stop the complaining and take a moment and listen to them. MOST of what they say is for our protection and crazy enough they are probably right even if you think they are wrong!

Im a big kid now!

(Charlee)
You know how there are moments while growing up you feel like you really can sing, "I'm a big kid now!" Well, coming out from the St Louis Temple I felt like that song was meant for me! Look at me! I AM a big kid now!

While I wish I could share my entire experience with you receiving my endowments was very special and sacred to me. I can, however, share that the 16th of February was one of the happiest days of my life. I came out with a greater understanding and knowledge that I really am heading down the path God has set before me. What also made it more amazing was that my best friend and cousin also went through the temple the same day to receive her endowments as well.

(Going off on a tangent) Her and I have been bestest cousins since the longest I can remember. As we grow older we grow closer and closer together even if it seems like we can't get any closer it happens. The day they announced the missionary age change I immediately sent Callie a text. Together we both decided to go on missions. And... we turned our papers the same day... And we opened our calls the same day... AND we report the same day! Granted, we wont be going to the same place (she to Louisville Kentucky and I to Denver Colorado, her English and I Spanish) but we will party in the MTC together!

(Back on track) so I was texting Callie on the way to St Louis and she shared a scripture with me that gave me strength. I think it will be great if I share it with you. Its in D&C 109:13 and it reads, "And that all people who shall enter upon the threshold of the Lord's house may feel thy power, and feel constrained to acknowledge that thou hast sanctified it, and that it is thy house, a place of thy holiness." First off for those of you who are like "D&C?!?! What the heck is that?! It's not in the Bible!" You are correct about the Bible thing. The Doctrine and Covenants is modern day scriptures that was given by the prophet Joseph Smith and I believe it to be true. And Second. I hope that all of you took the opportunity to go to the Kansas City Temple Open House last May. Especially those who aren't members of my church and read my blog. If you didn't sometime when you're in KC and need something to do just visit the grounds of the temple. You will feel something special. What special feeling? I'll leave that to you to interpret. For me, even when I drive near the temple, I know without any shadow of a doubt that it is my Heavenly Father's house.

Now on to something not so temple related. This last January marked a year since I broke up my three year relationship with Chaz Green. Shortly after that (like MAYBE 2 days) I then started dating a most wonderful man named Andrew Givens. Now the reason I bring up Andrew is that he taught me things that I am now just beginning to appreciate. Andrew was a very VERY friendly person. I can remember sitting down to eat our regular subway sandwich and there would be another person at the same table and in just a matter of minutes he could have them telling their life story. Okay, that's an exaggeration but its pretty close to truth. Now I consider myself friendly as well but Andrew brought me out of my comfort zone to talk to everyone and anyone! Now that I'm heading off to Colorado I realized what a wonderful skill he taught me. A skill I will use everyday, and I mean EVERYDAY on my mission. Andrew, I'm sending my thanks to you all the way to Germany! That's where he is serving his mission. -mumbles- Lucky duck. Haha

Speaking of boys on missions! I have also found out that writing missionaries that are on missions is a fantastic way to prepare for one! I have about 6 boys that I write regularly. The letters get me so excited for my mission! I can't wait for that to be me! Maybe in later posts I'll share some of the letters and emails I have received. I think you would enjoy them. I already have two missionaries in mind.

You guys will write me when it comes time right? I'll post all my contact information! I would love to hear from you! I know that many missionaries rely on the letters they receive to get through the day. So you have to promise me. Yes, right now. Say, "I promise to write Charlee while she is on her mission." Good. You are now under obligation! :D

Lets end on that lovely note and a PICTURE of me wearing the JACKET on the way to St Louis. I hope you guys enjoy reading these and that you're doing well! Adios chicos!

Missions Are...

*(See Footnote)

(Brittney) In a word, prodigious, and are so in every way. They are one of the best things that can ever happen to a person. The learning is immense, the impact is huge, the trials are major, the blessings incredible, and the memories are so delectably sweet. I would recommend going on a mission to anyone even slightly interested.

The picture above is from one of the first times that I wore THE JACKET.  We went to visit these members' house in the heart of the Transylvanian Mountains for an FHE. Their names are Fratele (Brother) and Sora (Sister) Vasilescu.  Fratele Vasilescu was the first member to be baptized in Romania after the rebellion against communism. They are quite an inspiring couple because being a Mormon in Romania is hard; there is no support system, and "denying" Romanian Orthodox-ism is like denying Romanian citizenship.  Yet, this family has been active and more than helpful to the progress of the church for about 20 years. In fact, their daughter was one of my instructors in the MTC. I learned much from them, as I did from all the members in Romania, and I miss them all deeply.

In reference to THE JACKET, I bought it simply because I had lost or ripped (can't remember which) my other jacket, and I needed a new one (missionaries have to wear a suit jacket to church every Sunday). Thus--although we didn't know it--began THE SISTERHOOD. This JACKET has seen many an adventure and will soon see many more.

*Names of People Starting from the Left--Fratele Vasilescu, Elder Jerome, Sora Vasilescu, Sora Nettesheim, Elder Valentine, and Me"

I Love To See The Temple...

So I (Char) logged in to make another post and saw that my page was viewed 74 times!! I got way excited then realized that most of them were probably me. I can't count how many times I would visit my OWN blog and read my OWN post and think to myself, "Man, I'm good!" Full of myself much? Psh! Naaahh! But for those who did read the first post and those who are reading this one as well, my heart goes out to you because you care... hopefully.

Now, I was hoping to have some background information on our lovely jacket by now (-cough-Brittney!-cough-) but since we don't thought I would give you all an update on what I'm up to far as mission goes.

Yesterday, after receiving my call almost three weeks ago, I finally logged into my missionary portal. The first thing I saw was "You report in 104 days." Aaaaahhhh! That's it?!?! So yeah, guys, you have now 103 days left of this hot stuff so stock up on your Charlee time! I have also made a countdown on my phone so I can see how many days are left EVERYDAY! Ooh! Fun fact. The reason its taken me so long to actually sign into the missionary portal is because I don't have internet at mi casa (look at me speaking Spanish!) So I have to wait till we go to the warehouse to have internet. We go almost every weekday so I really don't have an excuse but hey that's mine. I also made my mormon.org profile! (Hi I'm Charlene Durfee | Student, Musical, Horses, BYU, Missouri, Family, Mormon.) Yeah, I'm Mormon! Ha...ha...ha... but that's all I have done and there's a ton more to do! No video games for you Char!

Another important thing! I have my big girl temple recommend! For those of you who are like, "whaaa?" Let me explain... No, no too long, let me sum up! When you go on a mission or before you get married, if a member of the church, you receive your endowments (special blessings) in one of the LDS temples. To go into the temple you need a special recommend to get in. So last Thursday I had my last interview and wore the Traveling Jacket and, because I did so I can say, "I passed! There are two of these interviews, one with your local bishop and then with your stake president. Each interview is about the same and they ask the same questions. Questions such as, "Do you obey the Law of Chastity?" "Do you live the Word of Wisdom?" "Do you believe in God the Father, his son Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost?" ect. Pretty simple interview! Now this Saturday (tomorrow! Eeek!) I will head to the St Louis Temple (and wear the Jacket) and make big and special covenants and promises with my Heavenly Father. I am so excited and nervous! But I'm pretty sure that is a good thing at least being nervous. I will also have to now wear garments, special underclothing that Mormons wear. It will be a big change but not one I'm sure I can't handle!(:

The last thing I've BEEN meaning to do is attend my old Spanish I class. My awesome Spanish teacher, Ms. Madison err.... Mrs. Wattenbarger, in high school, offered to let me come, sit and listen to her teach the Spanish I students. How cool is that? And what an amazing opportunity to brush up on my Spanish before I go to the MTC. Unfortunately I've been sick for about two weeks now. One week with a weird stomach ache and then next with a really bad cold. So really I've gone only once. I do, however, plan to go more often as soon as I get better! Hopefully that is soon. BUT! I did just get a call (not two minutes ago) from the Provo MTC and they tested how well I spoke Spanish and I got placed in the Intermediate class! I remembered more then I thought! Its a step.

Just last night my mom threatened if I didn't get better she would take me into the doctor. I haven't gone to the doctor because I wasn't sick since I was like 7! Not breaking that streak now! Though there is this stuff she's wanting me to take. It's called thinkcher (spelling?). Its this nasty vinegar base concoction that reeks and tastes like old farts! O.o You want to know what old farts taste like? Take this stuff. I only took it once but she wanted me to take it every hour. Do you know how long it took just to get the courage to drink it? Yeah, well I went through hell and back before I got the nerve. Maybe it really will help though, if I let it.

Anyways, hopefully we can get some history about the Traveling Jacket for you soon! Until then bottoms' up!