This week has brought me to realise a few things why I love my family so much. Over the past 15 months they have very dedicatedly sent me updates of obscure things that keep me happy: monthly pictures of Prince George and his growth rate, Haley and Brad Devine's life and baby ...
A year ago today I had my first baptism! I think back on that day and remember feeling totally stressed, exhilarated, and total joy. Now here I am one year and ten baptisms later and I still feel the same. Being a missionary really does take you into emotions you don't even know you had. The Lord really does stretch you, and I am so grateful for that!
First week in the First branch! IT ROCKS! They actually speak English. It was the first time in my entire mission that I have taken the sacrament in a real chapel. I was sitting on a pew. WHAT?! I love them so much! The members are incredible, and are so dedicated to the gospel. They are PUMPED to have Sister Missionaries for the first time!
Mafikeng culture shock was pretty bad, and the difference wasn't really even that bad. But this week was even worse. I went from a mountain village with no electricity and cooking on the stove to an area where every house has cars. Seriously - I am in love with my new area. I feel like it has such great potential. It looks like Italy or Spain- rolling hills, mountains, cute pastel houses, it's great. I always wanted to serve in Europe! But we also have a compound area as well. The Zone leaders showed us around on Thursday, but it was completely foggy, so we couldn't see anything. It's been an adventure. The only bad thing is that there aren't any good food places. I may or may not have eaten in a shack with rats one day.
My new companion is Sister Griffus, from Minnesota. She's been out six months and has been in Lusaka the whole time. Yes. Her accent is still totally strong. I may or may not be speaking in some Malawian-southern-twisted accent by the time I get home. The best part? She is dying on all the hills. It's hilarious. It makes me feel better about myself that I have been whipped into shape in the 2 1/2 months that I've been in Blantyre!
The church is true, I love this work, and I can't wait to see what is in store for me in Chilimoni/Fargo! Even if I was freezing all week long in 60 degree weather. Africa. What has it done to me?!
Sister Clifford
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