A little bit about the present and a bit of nostalgia as well

It's been kind of an emotional roller coaster month thus far, especially with regards to the gospel.  I love everything about it, and ever since I started working on my mission papers, I can't help but think about how amazingly blessed I have been...and I know that I mostly don't deserve it.  Heavenly Father has been much too patient with me! I have six months before I leave on my mission, and I am hoping and praying that nothing will stand in the way of that.  Every single day I wake up and go to bed every day thinking about the mission.  I wonder if my obsession with it has anything to do with the fact that missionaries were a constant presence in my childhood.  They changed my life forever, and I will be eternally indebted to them for everything that they have taught me and the gift of an eternal family.  I can't help but wonder what it must have been like on their end, what it must feel like to know that you helped someone find their way to the Lord.  It must be truly amazing, and that's why I want to go. 
OH!  I also got called as a primary teacher on Sunday!  I think children are my calling in this life.  They have played major roles in who I am as a person and all the children in my life have taught me so much patience, love, and dedication...it's so funny the lessons you can learn from a child!  The blessings I received while I was set apart were also so amazing and so personal.  It was exactly what I needed to hear.  I feel so spiritually rejuvenated!  I know this calling came from the Lord, and I am thrilled to give my first lesson :).


Anyway, on a completely different note, we finally have our camera back!!!  Which means our Venezuelan adventure is better documented.  I'm only uploading a handful on here because most of them are not flattering... I gained a TON of weight in Venezuela :/ but boy, every single bite was so worth it!!!

 Con los primos :)

So delicious, this picture just makes me want to cry...the food is just not the same in America :(

 My favorite flower in Venezuela, you can't find them anywhere else, apparently.

Something romantic happened between my parents here a looooong time ago...but I can't remember :/

 Universidad de los Andes, with my Pops. 

 Caracas, Venezuela

More food :) 

Primas! Renee y Maria Laura

Miloja.  To.Die.For. 

Proof that all I did in Venezuela was pig out :D

Paella :) 

 

My parents in Curacao...the beach there is incredible...there is nothing better than a beach in the Caribbean, let me tell you! 

Miami, con mi abuelita Mercy y Rodolfo :)