getting into the swing.

the end.

2010-07-28T13:56:00.002-07:00

I do not know if you expect the best letter of my mission or not, but seeing as I no longer will be mailing you weekly I say "let 'em have just one more."

It is hard to believe that more than 18 months ago I parted ways with my family and friends. Honestly I had no idea what to expect of this whole experience. All I knew was that I wanted to serve and I felt the Lord had a work for me to do. Having been so blessed to have the gospel in my own life, I only felt it would be selfish to keep it to myself. Then a sister missionary in the Mesa Temple Visitors Center read to me Doctrine and Covenants 4:4. That was the answer to my every question. Now here I am at the end of my mission. The black tag in the corner of my eye and my heart fills with love, gratitude, joy, happiness.

Being able to serve an extra three weeks added the miracle of all miracles to the millions I experienced during this time. Let me recount the event.

June 20th, 2010 Marta brought her neice to church to translate.
June 21st, 2010 Marta had her first lesson about the restoration.
June 27th, 2010 During a short lesson after church Marta set a baptismal date for the 24th of July.

In between the preparation we received a few calls from the bishopric about Marta's less active husband. We did not know him, and the first time we did meet him he happened to be smoking. We were very hesitant about discussing performing the baptism since he had already expressed disinterest.

Well, July 18th rolls around and it is time for Marta to be interviewed. Bishop has already confirmed with Paulo, her husband, that he is going to perform the ordinance. I decided to just get to know Paulo while waiting for the interview. Not far into the discussion I discovered that he stopped frequenting church while in Primary. He had not yet received the priesthood. Despite a slight road block, we let bishop control the situation and he made it to their house the following evening. After an interview he left Paulo with a goal to prepare to receive the priesthood and perform the baptism. Continuing forward with the impression he received to do this, we all searched to show our faith in Paulo that he would do whatever possible to be worthy to receive the priesthood. Next thing we know Paulo is getting dressed in white.

On July 24th both Paulo and Marta stepped into the baptismal font and we witnessed one of the sweetest moments. From the first time I met Paulo to the day of the baptism, he became a new man. He is happy. Marta has helped her husband find himself again. And all this in the space of a month.

The gospel - faith, repentance, baptism, the gift of the holy ghost, and enduring - is the only thing that can save an individual and a family. These two individuals found another reason to fall more in love because Paulo already invited me back for when they will be sealed for time and all eternity in The House of the Lord.

I am humbled for the opportunity to teach and learn from such remarkable individuals. I am grateful to be a servant of the Lord and witness daily his Love that is shed abroad. Tears have been shed for many a reason, but most of all because I have learned what love is. I have learned that no matter what Jesus Christ loves us and has given everything for us. His church has been restored to the earth and a living prophet has received the priesthood authority.

Having learned all this, I prepare for missionary work the rest of my life.

I am happy. It may be hard to leave behind family and friends again, but it is all according to the will of the Lord.

Nothing is greater than knowing the truth and this is what I have been blessed with. I echo what was said by Alma:

"I know that which the Lord hath commanded me, and I glory in it. I do not glory of myself, but I glory in that which the Lord hath commanded me; yea, and this is my glory, that perhaps I may be an instrument in the hands of God to bring some soul to repentance; and this is my joy."

I smile.

of the story,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll.

Marta and Sorella Carroll

Marta and Sorella Carroll and Sorella Prina

Marta and Paulo

Marta and Paulo all dressed in white

Amos before his baptism. Doesn't know that sister missionaries can't be hugged. :)

smiles.

2010-07-21T13:53:00.000-07:00

All smiles. For everything that is happening in life. It is difficult to put into words. If I were a poet I would write you a million. But (fortunately) today, I am a sister missionary in nothern Italy. I could not imagine life any differently.

As another week has passed, I feel it time again to express my deepest gratitude to what the Lord has given to me. I am grateful for life. The very fact that we have the opportunity to be here in a world created especially for us makes my face scream joy! My heart wants to burst with mushy love for everyone and everything. Even the ratty dog with leaves tangled in his hair rolling on the cobblestone street begging for me to pet him. Yes, even him. As crazy as I think this all is, I think I have become even crazier.

I could live here in this life style forever. Of course there are challenges. But as my sister put it a couple weeks ago, I realize more and more that mission life really is perfect. I decided that anything I have passed through in the past 18 months is no longer called a trial but a great learning experience. I am grateful I can look back and smile, and mean it. As I do glance in the past I question "where has this been all my life?" "Why can I not do this forever?"

Then I remember...that I can and I will!

Good news for you and for Marta! She is making the baptismal covenant on Saturday and her husband may even be able to perform the baptism according to our Bishop! I have never seen some one so ready and so excited about making this huge step. Having the privilege to help her along the path humbles me as I learn from her every footstep. My testimony has been growing right along with hers, and had I not had this opportunity I think I would have missed much of what Heavenly Father is trying to teach me.

Last week I thought, why not ask President if I can hang out here until December. Then Robert and I can storm the runway together. But before you know it I will be all up in your face and you will wish I was back on a mission.

I will give this one more week of everything I can. And then we will give the rest of life the justice it deserves.

I am sorry that my words are short. Right now, everything is just as short. I look forward to only one more of these love letters. Then I can just kiss you all on the cheek and tell you face to face.

Until next week,
Sorè Carroll

life.

2010-07-14T19:41:00.002-07:00

I think all parts of me are freaking out. My calves wake me up every night, multiple times, with charlie horses. My poor companion thinks I am dying every time. (Maybe I am still a little over dramatic.)

Yesterday everything became real. I gave my departing testimony at zone council, but gladly not a tear was shed. I just said how happy I was. What a blessing to be able to say that! Although I am not a perfect missionary, or person for that matter, it is a great joy to recognize happiness in ones life. Right now, that is all I can feel. Happiness for life, for the gospel, for eternity. What I really appreciate the most is helping others find that same joy.

Work is still progressing with our dear Marta, who we met only 4 short weeks ago. The baptismal date has been postponed until July 31st because she works on the 25th (which would have been her confirmation date). Therefore we decided together that it would be best to wait until the next week. Although I am sad to miss the celebration by one day, I am so happy for her. Marta is so strong and so faithful. The Lord is working miracles in her life, and before we know it, her husband will be active and they will become eternal. Actually a miracle happened. This past Sunday she did not make it to church because they were in the emergency room until 5 am. Her husband (Paolo) was having severe chest pains with high blood pressure. Well, following the visits Paolo was charged to quit smoking and to stop drinking alcohol and coffee. The first step towards reactivation. They are also starting to pray as a family every once in a while and Marta is so happy to see little changes in her love. Marta will be such a strength for the ward and especially for her husband!

An empty train ride home last week gave me a few moments to think. I sat against the window as we journeyed back from Marta's appointment and my heart filled with the deepest gratitude. Gratitude mostly for my Savior Jesus Christ, who made this opportunity possible. As we rode into Como my eyes filled with sweet tears. I spent more than half of my mission life in this beautiful place and I can hardly believe that before long my train rides will be gone. In fact they are already numbered. That is why I recommit every morning to give all I can, because this is the opportunity of a life time, but as dad said, this is not all. Just one of the necessary experiences to help me better understand and know Jesus Christ.

I think I am unconsciously trying to extend my time. Everyday is Saturday to me. Last Saturday. I even made a comment doing house when a woman said to come back Saturday. When she closed the door I said to my companion, in a serious question, "but doesn't she know it is Saturday?" My companion is helping me be sane. Although I have been crazy my whole mission.

Guess what we are doing on Friday. Participating in a wedding! Do you remember any info I gave about a little boy named Diego? Son of a less active? Well it had been quite a few months without any success of visits. During our exchange last week we were coming back from Marta and while on the train we stopped at the station where this family lives. At a spur of the moments I grabbed Sorella Simon and said we are getting off. We walked about 2 minutes to arrive at their front door. Surprise...the sister missionaries showed up! We taught a simple lesson and tried to offer some help. She shared the good news about the wedding and said we could come back to visit, but before all the stress. I called her 2 days later and we were back on Saturday for lunch. I decided to ask her if she had someone to take their pictures and she said unfortunately no, because of lack of funds. So I jumped on it and we are going to be wedding photographers and family photographers on Friday. We are going to be spending quite some time helping with the set-up. So although I could not participate directly in my sister's wedding, I will still get to help a family very dear to my heart make one more step towards covenant making in the temple. Plus, we are starting to prepare Diego for baptism!

President and Sister Wolffgram are incredible. We met them for the first time yesterday and it is a blessing to see how inspired their call is. They are just what the mission needs and are going to help the work progress so much! With only one month of service with them I am still grateful for the opportunity to have served under this Presidency!

The assistants told me a better practice my ping-pong arm. Apparently we are going to be having some rough competitions! I will be all brushed up and ready to compete against Eric. Or was it dad that schooled Eric at Carroll family Christmas? All I remember is getting comments from everyone about some intense matches. Love.

I love you all. Life is flying by and I am happy every moment of it. Even when my companion and I walk 3 miles in the sun and humidity only to sit down on a bench covered in bugs to permanently stain my skirt. Jealous? Good thing that was staying here anyway! On another, not as long and hot of a walk, we found black berries along the rode. We may or may not have enjoyed a few.

butterfly kisses.
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

p.s. love you!

a narrated week

2010-07-07T08:43:00.007-07:00

I think it would be safe to say that it has been the best week of the mission.

And I know it is just going to get better. The mission and the rest of life.

By the way, do you know what today marks? July 7th, 18 months!

First the fun: Thursday night, culture night at the Opera. Don Giovanni, a scandal and a half. With president's permission we got home for 11 o'clock. But it was the fastest running either of us have ever done in skirts and name tags. (what we looked like upon the return home picture 070) Well worth getting home with 30 seconds to spare. Plus I went to my first act of my first opera. Outside stage at the villa by the lake. (picture 042, 065) Mosquitoes and all were in love. (picture 1)

Friday night was an even greater success. My companion has been organizing this concert for our investigators. (the primary singing picture 045) Unfortunately, I did not participate but was able to help out by sitting in the audience. We have been talking about this concert basically since Sorella Prina arrived and our ward turned around this last week and we had a great turnout, from members and non-members alike. Bishop also called and surprised us by organizing an after party. Barbecue for July 2nd. Only two days short of the big day if independence! (picture 071) My companion and I went to bed late for the second night in a row. (with permission)

Now if is does not sound like we have been partying, the fun did not stop there. Friday a package rolled in with all American goodness. July 4th was well celebrated and the ward loved our pride! (picture 002, 003, 009, 025, 050) So did our district at our district 4th of July party on the 5th. Watermelon was purchased an enjoyed all weekend! (picture 039, 063)

Amid all the dancing, eating, running, and laughing there was also a lot of success seen as far as our missionary work goes. Marta Guarisco is still preparing for baptism, although she is experiencing a little opposition she is also full of faith and ready for pioneer day, July 24th. Our newest investigator of one point five weeks came to church with us on Sunday and cried all the way through. Lara is still searching for her answers but is ever closer to making covenants with the Lord. And finally I had the wonderful opportunity to work with another Sorella, Sorella Simons, during exchanges my final exchanges. (picture 040) She is only a couple transfers behind me and we enjoyed the crazy rain and hail storm together. Being drenched from head to toe never has been so enjoyable. (picture 041)

My week ended with a lesson and tears. We are teaching a dear dear Maria from Ukraine. Apparently I invited her on the bus during the winter and she thought we were JWs and did not do anything about it. Then the elder's found her doing house and taught her a couple times before we met her. We are talking about the plan of salvation and the hope that we have in Jesus Christ. I left in tears because Maria does not believe that she can be forgiven for past mistakes. We are trying so hard to help her understand the purpose of the infinite atonement of Jesus Christ and she is holding back. As much as she would like to be forgiven she does not believe it is possible. Even if it was a difficult past for her, I am so grateful for the atonement because I know how merciful the Lord is in our lives. She is reading every day from the Book of Mormon and we promised her that she will find forgiveness. It was re-manifest to me how great my Savior Jesus Christ is and how blessed I am to have the entirety of the truth. Being able to help others find it has been the most rewarding work of my life. If I could, I would stay here forever with the people that I have given nearly my whole heart to. We just need to keep "relying wholly upon the merits of Him who is mighty to save."

As a final treat, I got to translate the dedica that would go in the English Book of Mormon being hand delivered by our ward member to Mika after his concert this week. WHAT!? I better get on that George Clooney thing. (Had I known there would be fireworks I would have asked permission for another late night, I just found out from you all it even happened. Bummer city.) The Gospel of Jesus Christ never looked so good. No, but really.

I hope a view of my life in pictures was satisfying until I can smile in your face for real. I am so grateful for your continual prayers and support. If is because of you, family, that I am here and I am happy! Dad is so fired for counting. I stopped.

Hearts!
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

Como Ward Primary concert

Outside Como Villa before the opera

Sorella Carroll and Prina at opera in Como

After the curfew-run home from the opera

BBQ on the 2nd of July to celebrate the 4th

4th of July decorations from Target via USPS through Italian Customs and Postal workers to a window in Como

4th of July in Como

4th of July with Sorella Prina

4th of July and prepared for rain

Waving the flag for American independence

4th of July watermelon

Anziano Hunsaker prepping the watermelon

Our district on the 4th of July

Exchanges with Sorella Simons and Sorella Costley

A rainy bus ride home after exchanges

lotioning, oiling...

2010-06-30T21:56:00.002-07:00

It is definitely a day for a pool party, but my co and I are throwing our own kind of party. Missionary party!!! Plus with the summer heat comes more people in house! We hope!

All is well and alive in Como. I just returned from 2.5 days in Milano on exchanges! I get a couple days rest and then exchanges again next week! The zone leaders are loving the whole "we tell the sisters what they do!" Actually, they are great and really helping us experience the greatest part of the mission, learning from so many different people.

I was able to meet a new convert yesterday who is blind. The elder's knocked on her door and asked if they could share a movie with her. She declined mentioning the fact that she was unable to see. They kept in contact with her and I believe taught her a couple times with a member. Being that she is a single woman they waited for the right time to pass her to the sisters. Well a few short months and Christmas treats later, she was baptized and just loves it. What a wonderful spirit and gratitude for life. Meeting people like Laura makes me feel that much more grateful for the blessings I have received. Actually a few weeks ago I was sitting on our balcony and saw a blind man walking down the street with his guide stick. I started to cry thinking about how fortunate, or rather blessed, I am to have my eyesight. I started wearing my glasses more and read with my bad eye so it does not get worse. These days I have been attracted to the sightless, being that I am now remembering the woman I invited on the bus a week ago. I sat with her and her dog Barbie and talked about the gospel and life. It will be a great blessing one day when they can have their bodies in their perfect form!

I had an interesting experience on the bus on Monday that made me really thankful to be in a calmer Como than a mad Milano.

Have I mentioned Marta? Get ready, she is another dream come true. She takes notes when we teach and she takes notes in church. She wants all the church books and already told her husband she is going to be baptized. We are actually trying to prepare him to baptize her, but he has been inactive for quite some time now. More than 10 years. We found this grand family when Gabriella moved here from Brazil to study. She is 16 years old and ready to serve a mission tomorrow. She just showed up in church and did not talk to anyone because of the language barrier. Then next week she brings a friend and I make my way immediately to them because I missed the opportunity the week before when it was just Gabriella. I met Marta, Gabriella's aunt. It is the most beautiful experience listening to testimonies in Italian and Portuguese. I just added another language to my to do list when I get home. ASL, Icelandic, French, Spanish, and Portuguese.

Today when coming into internet you will never guess who I saw. Lisbet. The mother of our dear Joaquin. It had been at least 4 months since I saw her. She did not even wait 2 seconds to start telling me all about Joaquin and how great he is in Peru. Then she called him and I even got to talk to him! It is always wonderful to see old friends, even though I wish they were still a part of my life, it is great to know they are okay. I hate the idea of leaving behind so many people.

Giustina called me on Monday. I answered and told her I was going to call her. She asked why I hadn't yet. I told her it was because I was packing my bags, because I was going. She said nothing. I mentioned I was kidding and said that I was only going to Milano for 2 days. She then proceeded to explain that she just woke up and had a dream that I came to her house on Wednesday to tell her I was leaving and that I would not be back to visit. She was calling to make sure that was not true! I felt bad for making the joke that I did when she thought that I was being serious. My companion warned me about Italians and their dreams, so I am making sure it does not come true!

I love my life here and am so grateful for every second I have to be here! Thank you for your support family! In not too many days I will be able to hug you, but for now I am happy to be where I am with who I am with. My heart is full of love for everyone around me. I thank my Heavenly Father everyday for the opportunity to be serving a mission and to have made it this far!

I love you.

I am bakin' like a roasted cheese something.
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

the final good-byes.

2010-06-23T22:10:00.002-07:00

Yesterday, an emotional day, was the last time I would see my dear President and Sorella Dunaway as missionaries in Italy. I was quickly informed that Sorella Dunaway would be taking Italian courses at BYU and I mentioned myself too. Having had a course with her three years ago we are looking forward to being in class together again! They can not get rid of me yet! I will miss them for the last month, but I also know that President Wolfgramm will be just as wonderful and inspired.

I have a lot to say and not enough words. The more time ticks away, the less I can think to write. I just want to savor every moment, because I know how precious every second is. I feel a new boost of energy every morning as I wake. I really want to scream from the roof tops the wonderful news and bring everyone the truth. So, my companion and I are about doing the work! Right now I want to shout how happy I am and how wonderful it is to have the fullness of the truth, thanks to revelation.

This transfer is a focus on following the guidance of the spirit and receiving personal revelation. Something that I have been searching to really understand and put into practice in my life. Although I knew the power of this principle before my mission, I have grown unbelievably in testimony about the real power the spirit can have in my life. Since hearing all the stories of the earthquake in Chile I have wanted to exercise more faith and follow the spirit much more readily in my life in order to be better prepared. Since that I have noticed a change in my actions. When I feel to do something, I usually do it.

Last week I had an experience of not following the prompting of the spirit and it led to more difficulties. We told our investigator Giusi we would wait by her car so we could drive to church together. Well when she was not there we called and called. To no avail we gave up. As we were walking to the nearest bus stop I stopped literally in the middle of the street and something said, "stop, she is going to come." I hesitated. My companion did not want to wait, but I made her walk back to the car just to be sure. Since Giusi was still not there we left. While on the bus low and behold, she calls. We get off the bus and after way too much confusion we got to church with her 20 minutes late. She then remained for 15 minutes and left. Although we still got her to church, she did not get to experience much of the spirit of being there. I felt terrible and am working on being courageous enough to follow the spirit, even when there is opposition from other people.

With some final goodbyes to my dear elders and sisters I came back to Como yesterday with a new desire to be better and stronger. I know that I am not doing this for myself, but I need to improve so that I can help as many people as possible in the next thirty-five days here in Como. They do not know what they are waiting for!

Other good news. When the Tuscany region is added to the mission on July 1 come 6 sisters. Two of whom will be going home with me. I learned today they are my two favorite sisters from the MTC, Sorella Nelson and Sorella Cheesman. I will also have a flying buddy all the way to Phoenix! Score! Starting and finishing with these beauties is just the right way to do it!

Thank you for your many examples, loves, and smiles. I am grateful to call you family and eternal! Life would be impossible without you!

Your sister, daughter and friend!
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

there's a star man.

2010-06-16T14:17:00.002-07:00

Tomorrow I become illegal in Italy. Maybe I should not be saying that out loud. My residency expires today. I live such a dangerous life! Six weeks on the risk! What!? I am wild.

What a week! As I begin the last six weeks of my mission I have many feelings and thoughts running through me. It may be the last six weeks as a missionary in the Milan Italy mission, but it is the first six weeks of the rest of my life. It is going to be wonderful. I hope they are as great for you as they will be for me.

Figs are on sale and we eat a lot of them. I wish I took advantage of our fig tree grandma planted. What a brain she is. My companion and I are waiting till we can go and pick the wild figs from the side of the road, along with the raspberries that are beginning to bloom! What a delight.

I guess that gives you a little hint as to what I will be doing for my final transfer. Yes, I am going to be dancing down the streets of Como with my Sorella Prina at my side. Last night getting transfer calls was suspenseful. I had no idea what would happen. I would be lying if I said I wanted to stay. Last night I was hoping for a change. Just to add some excitement into the last bit. But this morning, thank you to a dear brother Robert, I realized that I can make this exciting. And it is going to be just that! Besides, the fact that I can change things makes it that much better. Plus I will have to hide from the government, so it adds an extra spice to life. (Really it is not that big of a deal, we just hope that if I do get stopped it is a nice officer.)

Sunday was stake conference in broadcast form from Salt Lake City. We heard from Elder Boyd K. Packer, Elder David A. Bednar and Sister Mary N. Cook. We had four investigators show up; one for the first time, one who will be baptized next month, and another two who are progressing towards the baptismal covenant in the coming months. It was incredible to hear directly from two apostles speaking to the Saints in Europe. I learned quite a bit, and I hope that those who attended with us were aware of what great counsel we received. Everyday I am grateful to have a living prophet and apostles so that we as men and women on the earth can know the will of God and have the fullness of the truth! Today while shopping for groceries I saw a woman for the fourth time in the past two days. I stopped to talk to her and introduce myself since she is a new face around. She actually just moved into our apartment building one month ago. Another new friend and individual interested to know that God does still work miracles today and does still guide His children, us.

So our next baptism is amazing. I almost feel it is too soon to mention her name, but she is absolutely wonderful. The elders found her and quickly referred her to us, unfortunately we never got hold of her or found her. The elders continued to ask about this "golden" and I said I was trying. But they happened to run into her in the mean time and taught her and brought her to church. Success! I sat next to her during her first Sunday and she had so many questions. We taught her for the first time last Saturday and invited her to be baptized, which she quickly accepted. I guess I should tell you her name. Juliana. She was born in Italy, but her parents are from Ghana. She lives with her father close to the church and was astounded to know that the church has been there for a few years. Juliana has been on her own search and when the elders accidentally knocked on her door looking for their investigator, that was God saying here is your answer. She is so interested and accepting of everything! Humble people, who are not compelled to be humble because of certain circumstances are blessed in the eyes of our Heavenly Father. I am so grateful for the already growing testimony of Juliana and her vigor and desire to learn!

So staying in Como is going to be a wonderful change. I guess the fact that I am not changing is a change, since in the past I have changed so often. I am ready to move forward and be the missionary the Lord expects of me!

I love my life.

I love all of you.

I wish you all a happy week. Shout out to the BYU cougs. Ramsey bleeds blue!

I love you.

Waiting in the sky,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

run my hands through my fro.

2010-06-09T18:40:00.004-07:00

The lake is still beautiful. They weather can not decided what to do, rain or shine. And I really have a fro with all this crazy humidity. I guess growing up in Arizona really is a blessing! (I can easily count more than one though)

I remember arriving and having to sleep with the blow dryer next to me for some extra heat at night. I believe we have officially made it through winter and practically spring. But rather than give you the mundane weather report, lets talk about everything else!

I started last week in an all day Milano conference with the missionaries from my zone. I still find it amazing that we young adults are here doing this work. Watching so many new missionaries arrive this past transfer and hearing their testimonies re-ignited the fire in me. I love being a part of the greatest and strongest army on earth. Although I only know a selected few of my peers around the world, as I pray for the missionary work around the world daily I feel their prayers and earnestness in bring the light of the gospel to all. This reminds me everyday how blessed I am to be in the service of the Lord at this point in time. (pause ... thunder in the air and water on the ground. The sky really can not decide.) Especially with the experiences I have had here in Como, I understand more fully my role as only the instrument in the Lord's hands. I am adding to my testimony that the Lord truly does have a plan for me, and whatever I experience is because I am being helped or because I can possibly help another! He is good!

I am a real Italian! I learned this week how to make a pizza. Like one you would find in Naples. The only thing I am missing is the wood oven. Our investigator Virginia had us over for dinner on Sunday and did a step by step process with the pizza. If I remember everything maybe one day I can try it on you. We will see. For now I can at least pretend I am Italian!

We celebrated 17 months. Did you know it had been that long? I did not burn any ties or suits, or rather skirts or shoes. But I did get the chance to work with a new missionary sister and learn from her great desire to bring the gospel to these people in Italy. I have grown so much love for them in my short time here and I hope it never dies!

Look for a miracle in everyday! I love you all.

Con tutto il mio amore,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

The final pizza

The pizza process

The pizza beginning

The dough

Mariana is a Ukranian convert of 1.5 years preparing for a mission

Queen

"che materia!"

2010-06-02T18:33:00.001-07:00

This week my companion and I both have bruises on our arms from punching each other. We learned from a couple 13-14 year old boys on the bus that yellow is the new slug-bug. We are always little children at heart and my co gets a slug every time a yellow car passes. Surprisingly there are a number of these around Como. Or we just see the same ones all the time.

Yesterday we went back to the "old-folks" home to visit a referral from a member. (Yes this is true. It is never too late to receive the gospel right?) Franca Robba. She is probably the most sane in the whole place and really only ended up there because her sister was there and did not want to be alone. Well after the death of her sister she stayed, helping out where she can. While waiting for her to dress for the day we took the opportunity to speak with a lady in a wheel chair that kept telling us that she too wanted company. Just letting her chat away, Franca approached and started talking to this woman. Franca made up a whole story about calling Giuseppe the woman's son to come and get them so they could go to the sea. On this story goes and finally the woman, we can call her Maria (since she calls everyone else that), states "oh che materia, siamo tutti pazzi." (oh what material, we are all crazy.) Franca responds, "si, un po'." (yes, a little.) The whole conversation was completely serious for Maria, and she knows we are all crazy! I could sit and listen to them talk for hours.

Yesterday was June first. Summer is on its way. Eric told me dad was counting so I know it is safe to say that as of yesterday I had 2 months, or 60 days. I took the opportunity to start these last two months with a fast. We had just had interviews on Monday and I was feeling the necessity to reset some goals and just go for it. I am so excited about what these next few weeks are going to bring! So much is going to happen and I know that this is where I need to be and what I need to be doing. I have been blessed during these first 17 months of my mission and I know that these last two are going to be the best ever. I have never felt so refreshed and excited to walk along the streets of Italy talking to everyone! Surprisingly, these past 50 hours have brought a lot of hope and strength to the work we are doing here in Como.

Plus, this past week I read through my letters home from the beginning of my mission. I still feel like I just got here and everything was so new and exciting. Although situations have changed and I am experiencing different emotions everyday, I still feel like the baby in the mission, learning and anxious doing it!

I thank you for your help and support! I know how much help you are giving me and I am receiving so many blessings from your many sacrifices and work at home. It sounds like all is happy and well and I was more than excited to see my baby brother finishing strong! What a popular kid! Congratulations! I wore blue and gold in your honor!

Things are going very well at this point in time and I am pleased to announce how wonderful Como, Italy is! Today is a national holiday and the people are all happy to be free for a day! We are happy too. Happier than ever!

Love love.

We are all crazy,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

oh happy day.

2010-05-26T18:25:00.004-07:00

Today is the day I tell you how much I love you all.

This week has been probably one of the most stressful and unexpected weeks of my life. Because of this my head is spinning with thoughts and prayers. Because much of what is happening with our work at this point it sensitive information I figured it better not to make it a public matter. I am learning, though, that still the only way to resolve problems (big or small) is through exercising faith in Jesus Christ. His is the only name whereby we can be saved.

I gladly declare my testimony of the truthfulness of this restored gospel!

Today I bought a melon and some prosciutto for the 2nd time on my mission. The first time, though, the doctor put me on a white diet to resolve my allergy a year ago so I never got to taste the good part of Italy. Oh happy day.

Last night ended with a dance party. Oh happy day.

Tonight we are going to Swiss Land. Oh happy day.

I got the best pink package in the mail, hand-delivered to my front door! Over-done and a tear or two were shed knowing this would be the last. Thank you for going above and beyond and sending everyone something to enjoy! The gumballs are going to be a hit! Thank you!

The summer is approaching quickly. A few hot hot days have hit. Tourists everywhere!

Really it is a happy day!

Love,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

Preparation Day eve dance party

Preparation Day eve dance party

Preparation Day eve dance party

The wonderful Dalmazio family

Rique teased about wild hair

weekly update. number...

2010-05-19T18:00:00.003-07:00

Lately, I spend a lot of time reflecting. The past 16 months, the next few weeks, tomorrow, yesterday. Everything seems to be running around in my head. Sleepless nights and red eyes are the latest, but still always a smile. Mostly because I am amazed at the miracles, struggles, plans, and joys God has prepared for me everyday.

Last night I sat in our ward council meeting and could not help but think about how The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is Christ's church on the earth. The only church guided by God and not by man. Why did this thought come to me? Because I looked around the room; various ages, social classes, nationalities, genders. I thought about the various sacrifices these people make for others, WITHOUT receiving payment in worldly things. I thought about the 53,000 missionaries in the world who are now sacrificing their time and money to share the word. I think about those preparing to make the same sacrifice, and in doing so give up so much of the world to serve God. I thought about our Prophet, Apostles, and all other leaders who go above and beyond for the good of the world and all this without a monetary recompense. I know in the end money is not important, but if someone were to see the time, energy and effort that goes on "behind the scenes" it is impossible to deny the things we do and teach as being false. Not to mention the hope the gospel brings to our lives, even when it seems like everything has been torn apart.

Eduardo Albonico made a big step yesterday. A big step of faith, which he claims to not have much. He committed to make the baptismal covenant in June. This is a goal, but a goal that is going to be met. Every time we meet with him he is looking for more, asking more, and willing to do more. His wife and daughter are following behind, slowly, but surely.

I lost all my train of thought. The Muslim internet store owner just started chatting away and asking all sorts of questions and started the usual "I am right you are wrong" discussion that I have experienced multiple times here. I did not want to be rude, so I responded, but lost a few minutes and all thoughts.

It is funny how much opposition we face as missionaries. People all over criticizing our lifestyle. We try to explain and help them understand without forcing it. I have never told someone they are wrong, but the invite is always to pray and learn for yourself. Convincing with the spirit can work, but convincing with facts and words is hardly anything. In the end it is better to just search and find the answer for yourself, because then you can be sure. Just as I am sure!

I like when people look at me and say "You are convinced, sure, and steady." Yes, because I found the truth that God as prepared for me!

I love sharing it.

l.o.v.e.
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

Prina family intero

Prina family

Lake Como overflowed

Windblown

Baceno beauty

Lorenzo

Gabriella and Spiderman

Wall walking

Cheeetahhhh!

Sorella and Lara

como becomes venice.

2010-05-12T17:50:00.001-07:00

Family.

Hearing your voices makes going out and doing missionary work that much better. It is like the sun shining after 20 days of dreadful rain. (Which is also what I am experiencing, literally, this afternoon!) You always inspire me and help me become a little more of what I need to be. I thank you for you love, first and foremost.

Secondly, I thank my mother for being who she is. As I spoke on Sunday in church about repentance I actually could not help but think how forgiving you have always been of me. With my many many weaknesses and stubborn actions I hardly believe someone would want to keep helping me. But mother, and father included, I have received nothing but support and guidance. Mom you deserve to be celebrated everyday! "I wish everyday was [mother's] day."

3rd on the list is LOVE. Two wonderful days of pure love. Despite the fact that the lake has flooded the nearby piazza we are still trudging through the rain and are searching for new friends. I say friends because, that is what these people are to me. Although we are so different in backgrounds and interests there is one thing in particular that has brought us together. There is one thing, as I believe, that can create a friendship from nothing. If you have the true and restored gospel between you.

A few new friends of mine consist of rollerblade stars Sophia (8) and Irina (11) and bicyclist Matteo (9). We found them knocking doors Monday afternoon. They kept going back and forth and looking like they wanted to talk so I finally stopped them and started chit-chatting. What do I love about kids? Their curiosity, sincerity, love and honesty. They asked what we were doing so we gave them the run down. Then they started recommending neighbors we could try and talk to. They were so excited about it they started ringing the doorbells.

Sometimes they would hide and ask us what happened after and sometimes they would talk to the people with us. All three were appalled at the fact that people said they had no interest before even learning what we had to say. Matteo was perceptive of truths and kept making comments about how closed adults were. "How can they say no if they do not even know what it is about?" I heard that question more than once.

As we were making our way back to the main road, the kids were following behind. Sophia ended up falling so we brought her back to her house. Her parents still stared and tried to take the kids away from talking to us. Unfortunately without parental consent we can not teach the children. But thanks to a friendship maybe these three young friends will run into missionaries at a later time and remember the fun they had knocking doors with the sisters!

Eduardo Albonico is making tremendous progress and I have never seen someone so sincere in their search! This past week His wife and daughter joined in on the lessons and this family is going to see great changes in their life!

The work is moving and so am I. Today, again, I was reminded of what a great work I am participating in. I have never gained so much love for the gospel as I have even in these past few weeks. Really it amazes me the truths and discoveries we find when we search! Helping others do the same makes my heart fill with joy!

Happy weeeek!

Laughter Optimism Vivacity Enthusiasm.
I love love.

i'm a computer,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

Como Esta Como?

2010-05-05T07:20:00.003-07:00

As dad would say. Well you can ask me that same question for another 6 weeks! I have been called to continue my service here, nestled between the Italian Alps. Apparently it snowed back in the mountains. Wet and happy feet are down here in Como.

Miracle of the week! We found another family!
Here is how the story goes: A few weeks back we took a trip into Switzerland to meet a member. This required a little wait at a bus stop until she came to pick us up. There was a woman with her son that I started a conversation with. Mostly with her little boy about Peter Parker and Spiderman since he showed me his new H&M shirt with Spiderman on it. We talked for maybe 3 minutes total, about life, her family and just as I was about to throw out the invite our ride pulled up. Apparently she was in a hurry so I never got anything out. I got in the car full of regret for not extending the invite sooner. The woman was so nice and her son was darling. She seemed really happy to be talking to someone. I said an immediate prayer for the opportunity to meet her again. I prayed a couple more times and when she came to mind I would pray again. To be honest, we do not go to Switzerland often, so I thought it unlikely.

Last Wednesday after writing you my companion and I headed to Switzerland for some finding work. We stopped at a potentials tabbacheria (ideal right?) and then went to look for some apartment buildings. Having never been to this part of the city most things looked like office buildings rather than residential. We happened upon a smaller building and decided to try it. With ease we entered and began knocking. I do not remember what happened but at our second to last door something caused us to laugh rather hard. I was still laughing when the last door opened (only the second of 14 doors). The man opened it wide and said "hello." Startling both of us we did not know to speak English or Italian. His wife then came to the door and it was the same woman who recognized us! They quickly invited us in and we started to talk, get to know you things. They were both running back and forth with other things, son in the bath, work, phone, dinner, etc.

We returned two evenings later to meet with Gabriella, since Pierdamiano was working, and "Peter Parker" her son. It was an interesting evening, but it is true that God does prepare people to receive the gospel. I am grateful God put her in our path again so that we can be the messengers of truth!

I am falling more and more in love with my calling as a missionary. I am gaining greater and greater understanding of the truth and it is one of the grandest blessings to help others find the truth themselves.

Amid the many experiences, the good and the bad, I know one thing is for sure...my Heavenly Father loves me and has me here for a reason. That reason is unfolding!

Peace love and happiness!

Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

Italians feed their babies horse meat

Food with Giustina

Sorella Carroll and Sorella Prina at Zone Conference

Antonio plays the according, harmonica and sings and dances

Making bread for Luba

Waiting for an appointment

Sprouting onions in the kitchen

Elena, Marianna, Tiziana, Sorella Carroll, Eduardo, and Sorella Prina

Silvana and one of her dogs

green.

2010-04-28T20:21:00.002-07:00

These weekly letters are getting harder and harder to write. Not because my life is boring but because it is wonderful and there are so many things to say but so little time.

A couple weeks ago we were doing a little shopping in Como which required a visit to the bank. I do not think I have ever stepped foot in a bank in America therefore I have no idea how the doors work there, but here there are two. One must close before the second opens. My companion barely missed the door leaving her inside the bank and me trapped alone between two glass sliding doors. (we could see and hear each other still, hah). I actually briefly got stuck in between the doors while my companion could not open one and the woman outside could not open the other.

It turned into a laugh for myself and Lara (the woman outside). While I waited for my companion to come out I started talking to this lady who was so kind and outgoing. My companion made it but I decided to continue talking instead of making it to the closing store. Lara gave me her phone number and walked away. She actually never went into the bank so I wonder why she came over to the doors like she needed to get in.

Our first appointment with Lara was a surprise baptism of another investigator for the Anziani of Lecco. What a wonderful opportunity to really explain our purpose as missionaries. She met with us again the next day and is already one of my favorite Italians. I have never met someone so sincere and honest.

Miracles! Everyday!

Love list long overdue:
1. onions that grow leaves because it is so humid here.
2. the shining sun.
3. green mountains.
4. new friends.
5. leaves on the trees.
6. the book of mormon.
7. Going to Pinocchio the musical on Friday!
8. no nylons in May.
9. MAY!
10. being happy!

I pray for you and I love you all!

Sincerely,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

Sorella Carroll and Sorella Prina at Zone Conference

my my my

2010-04-21T20:40:00.001-07:00

Well after spending a couple days in Bergamo I am happy to be back in Como. I do love it here. I love the people, and I feel like I could live here the rest of my life (with my family of course). It feels great when you recognize faces on the street and they recognize you. It is even better when one accepts what you have to offer!

This week we will talk about Eduardo. While on the bus last Thursday I noticed a man look back at my companion and attempt the read her tag. He then looked to me, but my tag was a little hidden from frantic moving to make space. He pointed to it and asked, "che cos'é?" I proceeded to explain my call as a missionary and that we are here to tell the world God has called a living prophet and given us, again, the authority necessary to return to him. When I said living prophet Eduardo did a double take and was speechless for a couple seconds. He then moved forward with many questions that I had no time to answer because he needed to get of the bus. I asked for his phone number and gave him a pass-a-long card with our number. I watched him as he exited the bus and read what was on the back of the card I gave to him. Continuing on my way to the church I did not give much thought to what had happened.

Then Friday we went to Zone conference where I was filled with even more motivation to preach and as we left I thought, call Eduardo. On the train I made the call and he was very happy and gave us our first appointment of the week on Monday.

We show up to his door, right on time, with the Relief Society President at our side. (His wife was working so there was the necessity of another woman.) He was excited and ready for us! Up the stairs we went were he had us meet his daughter and "get to the good stuff." His daughter declined my offer to listen so we continued along. Eduardo shot out question after question. We explained that we could not respond to everything in one moment but that we will eventually get to answer. We left that morning with a, "I will call you to let you know when I can meet."

Later that evening he called and we scheduled for Tuesday evening. I returned home from Bergamo and we were off. Little did we know we would encounter 45+ minutes of traffic to arrive due to a very serious motorcycle accident. I did not want to see what I did on our way up, I'll leave it at that. He was polite and happy to see us again and pulled out the Joseph Smith testimony underlined and ready for questions. He also received a Book of Mormon from a friend after that day. Eduardo is the most excited investigator I have ever met. We taught him about the restoration and invited him to pray which he fully committed to and is starting to read the Book of Mormon.
After meeting his wife I believe firmly this will become a family affair! I have never met someone so excited and willing to listen as this man is. He is sincere and earnest in his search, which he tells us he been on for over 40 years. Although he has many ideas, he is definitely on the way to find the full truth and I do not think he even understands what is waiting for him!
Life is wonderful.

A little chat on the bus is turning into something greater! At first I did not think much would come of it!

It is great being able to teach the truth and have others recognize you as true disciples of Christ.

Many more miracles took place, and I am noticing the spirit more abundantly as I am more obedient. I thank you for the help you have given me to reach this point. Through the difficulties and trials, joys and laughter...just like Robert said ... I only have my Father in Heaven and you to thank!

I could not imagine doing anything greater with my life!

Have a wonderful week!

Sincerely,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

to you.

2010-04-14T20:35:00.003-07:00

I bought an afro comb this morning. Yes I am excited to use it.

God does exist.
God does guide his faithful servants.
God does love everyone of his children!

Three weeks ago I met a new companion. We discovered our differences, our likes, our dislikes. We also pretty quickly began to understand that this was going to be an interesting experience together. But I am learning that the Lord has put us together for many a reason. For both our learning and experience. This past week has been on of real miracles. As we tried to find our points of unity we saw more of the Lord's hand in our work. More than I could have ever imagined.

Easter morning, companionship study. Neither one of us really excited but came to the conclusion that we should read the story of Christ's last week from the Gospel of St. Matthew. Again my testimony was strengthened and I felt the eternal and unexplainable love the Savior has for me and everyone of my imperfections. It is written that Christ still called Judas "friend" after the betrayal. That is love, pure love.

I prayed for patience and this kind of love and I am beginning to see the many strengths my dear companion has. Many of which brought about the miracles we witnessed.
Thursday morning we set out to find the souls who are ready. A nice warm day, people at the lake, who better to talk to than the families enjoying their time together. Some interested, others not. On our way home I noticed my companion stop so I turned back. We introduced ourselves to a young mother named Chiara. She proceeded to tell us that se was left widowed last month and as we saw has a daughter of one year. As we testified and taught simple, yet brief principles Chiara listened and felt the truthfulness. A busy street of shoppers and noisy teenagers quickly turned into one of the most spiritual moments of my entire mission. This woman looked at us as if we were the answer to her pleading prayers. She confided completely in us as the Lord's servants. I do not know if she was scared or what, but she would only leave with our phone number promising to call. She left while I cried. My companions arms around me while innocent passers-by wondered what was wrong. I still believe she will call and I pray everyday we will meet her again. That morning I realized that even when I do not know what to say, the Lord does. I opened my mouth and the spirit guided. My body warmed up and I too felt every truth of what I was saying.

Still on the walk home we were chit-chatting and saluting the few hurried italians. Then a woman comes running out of a job agency office. One, two, three seconds passed and both my companion and I stopped dead in our tracks. Without saying a word we looked at each other and turned around. We caught up to speed walker Anna. It is true, what when you search for real unity the spirit will speak to both of you and tell you that which you should do.

Later that evening...

All of our plans fell through so we made the trek to an ex-investigators house with big hopes. Fail. Since we were in the area of a previous casa-in-casa expedition we decided to contact those who said we could return. First name, Luigia. I remembered that she was an older woman and I thought was just being nice when she said we could return. Really, I started with her because I figured she would at least let us into the building. A head popped out the window and a smile came to her face. She remembered telling us we could come back but did not want for us to enter at that moment. I walked over to her and started explaining that we wanted to share five minutes of peace. Still refusing, she explained "today is just not my day." My companion said a few things and then Luigia began to cry. She has some health problems and is widowed with no kids terrible close. She is alone and in need of truth. Another moment, letting the spirit testify, we came to the conclusion that we were going to offer her the peace she is searching for. Luigia consented and let us in. Five minutes turned into 30 minutes and a return appointment.

We returned Saturday a little apprehensive as to whether or not she would remember and with a great big smile welcomed us warmly into her apartment. We taught her about the plan of salvation and again she was very open and happy about what we had to say. As the spirit directed we invited her to make the baptismal covenant with the authority given from God. She asked if it was okay to be baptized twice and as we explained she accepted. It was all a little surprising and we planned on bringing her to church the next day. When we called Sunday morning with the ride, she mentioned that her son was coming early to get her for family lunch and there was nothing we could do. We confirmed the appointment for Tuesday and left it at that. I still was a little nervous about working with an 81 year old woman and when we showed up you could see a little trouble in her eyes. She quickly told us that we are not allowed to visit her anymore because her son does not agree. She was excited to tell her family but apparently they shut everything down. Her son threatened to never step foot again in her house if she allowed us to keep coming. We still taught the message of the restoration and she soaked in every word. I really started understanding that this woman does understand and has noticed a big difference between us missionaries and the catholic church. Luigia, very discouraged told us she could not continue because her family is so important. We spoke with her and came to the conclusion that we are going to give her son a week to calm down and she invited us back for the following week. We left her with the commitment to pray and ask for God to touch her son's heart so that they can all enjoy the blessings of the Gospel. She agreed. She is going to read from the Book of Mormon all week. I have never have someone trust us so much.

We decided we really liked working by the lake and have found quite the club of old folks interested in the gospel message. On our walk down to the lake I ran into Antonio (in his 70s and apparently a well known artist) who I met on the bus last transfer. He stopped for a little small talk and we ended testifying about the sacred priesthood of God.

My co also promised Italo that we would find him a wife. What!? My middle name must be cupid? Italo is serious and 62. He is coming to church to meet people who have the same principles and values as he does.

My evening yesterday ended with another member of the club freaking out a little. She called us and set up the appointment so we went with it. She read the passage we left her in the Book of Mormon and brought it up when we arrived. Silvia, 70, is catholic and has known the sister missionaries for nearly 20 years. We found her doing house. An interesting lesson turned into our friend feeling the spirit and understanding what she needs to do. I felt inspired to ask her if she had ever prayed to know if the Catholic church was true. She said no, even though that was her excuse because that was the way she was raised. Denying her feelings Silvia got really nervous and started stuttering. I have noticed that many italians start acting like this when they are scared of change and they throw any excuse they can in order to not follow through with commitments.

I believe I talked about change a few weeks back, change is hard and I am realizing more and more how blessed I am to have had parents that taught me the entire truth because they searched it out for themselves. I thank you family for helping me understand what the truth is and helping me make it to this point where I can help many others understand the truth. I am grateful for the true church of Christ that encourages us, as members and non-members, to search out the truth on our own. Ask in prayer and ye shall receive. Only in this way, through God, can we understand the truth and the right path.

I again, this week, am so grateful to be on a mission teaching the truth about Christ. I am happy to bear His name and help many people feel the joy. In a world or fear and difficulty, we are deeply in need of a greater strength and help from God. He is our Father, and has provided us with a miraculous plan so we can find the way back.

We are not alone!

Adieu,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

p.s. this is Luigia.

no time to say.

2010-04-07T20:32:00.000-07:00

All computers are occupied and my co wants two hours on internet so I have almost no time to write you. All I have to say is how happy I am to tell you all is well and that I love you.

This past week has been so wonderful. Vacation and easter were wonderful and we are back full swing. The opportunity to listen to the words of modern prophets has changed me life again this weekend. I walked with prayers and prayers and left with a thousand answers and helps. Evidence that Heavenly Father really does know me and really does listen. I filled pages with spiritual guidance and am even more excited to see what I learn from written word (hint hint dad...). Since being in Italy and having hardly any communication with the world we are always a few months behind in receiving the written word. Also having not seen the last session of conference I imagine I have more to catch up on.

Miracle of the week. I saw Monica walking down the street from her mothers house in the pouring rain. We were talking to a lady at the nearby bus stop but when the lady got on her bus I started waving both hands in the air like I just didn't care. Monica was so happy to see the sister missionaries. Since we were on our way to an appointment just before conference I invited her to come. She said she would but when she did not show up on saturday evening we lost hope. Much to our surprise she walked in the english broadcast half way through the Saturday evening session that we viewed on Sunday afternoon. She remained and talked with us and watched the next session. She knows what she is missing and you could see it in her eyes and hear it in her words. I learned an important lesson this past weekend. The gospel is the ONLY way. Well I guess I was just reminded as I am everyday.

I wish I could tell you all personally that I love you, but I hope this e-mail will suffice for the week. Next week I will beable to tell you more.

I read this scripture yesterday..."And now behold I say unto you that the right way is to believe in Christ, and deny him not; and Christ is the Holy One of Israel; wherefore ye must bow down before him, and worship him with all your might, mind, and strength, and your whole soul; and if ye do this ye shall in nowise be cast out." (2 Nephi 25.29)

Nephi says it so simply. The right way is Christ. We are on the right path. I invite us all to STAY on the right path giving all we can to Christ, since He gave us His life.

I love sharing the gospel and am grateful to be one of our Father in Heaven's fifty one thousand seven hundred and thirty six missionaries in the world.

hello...goodbye.
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

we are painting a picture.

2010-03-31T20:25:00.000-07:00

Everyday changes drastically. Sun, mist, pouring rain, sun, rain, fog, rain, fog. Spring and all its wonderful changes make for a wonderful change inside a missionary named Sorella Carroll. I will start by telling you my new companion is a natural health and food guru so she is getting me into a great big change. I like these changes. Change is good for the soul, even if it means a great big change of church (as it would be for many of our investigators).

I know sometimes I, myself, am afraid of change. But I am learning to accept it and learn from every moment. I am also learning how to help others accept the change that will change their life (not only on the earth, but the life here after).
This week I spent time studying all sorts of topics and really enjoyed remembering how the spirit teaches me personally. Spending time reading the bible or the book of mormon has caused me to really reflect on my beliefs and understand each thing in a logical manner. When the scriptures tell me "in your mind and in your heart" I completely understand it. Before I left on my mission I felt these things, I knew these truths, but I still did not understand everything and why. Now my mind is catching up with my heart and understanding the reality of everything. It just makes sense. I find myself saying that more and more often and thanking my Father in Heaven more everyday for His hand in my life. The Gospel of Jesus Christ (and all that it entails) just makes sense, and were it not for a restoration of the authority we would ALL be confused. But since God is not the author of confusion, and loves us, He again gave his children (by the way, that is you and me) the way.

Sorella Prina and I have big plans for this transfer and are working our way to go meet and teach her family. She has Italian descendants and it will be a great blessing to work with the family of my loving companion who is so ready to help save their lives as well.

Since we have not met them yet, I will tell you about the family that took care of me yesterday. Gabriella Nicastro and her daughter Michela. We had found them knocking doors a while back and yesterday we returned. Unfortunately it was pouring rain and I had given my umbrella to a man on the street that afternoon. Let us just say I needed a towel and hair dryer for some time while Sorella Prina got to know them. Ooops. (We are dry today.) Plus they are excited to learn with us!

Lilu came to church on Sunday and loved it. She has member friends already and is making huge changes in her life.

Did I forget to mention that this weekend is easter!!! And vacation weekend for us missionaries. That is right. The best vacation I could ask for right now. Conference. I am so excited to hear from our beloved Prophet and profit from the great and healing word of God. I think I have told everyone on the street and bus what they can experience if they come with me. Fortunately Italy is up-to-date with technology and we will be watching Saturday and Sunday morning sessions live and Saturday evening recorded on Sunday afternoon. It will almost be my bed time while you are all just waking up to hear the good word. I hope you are all as excited as me. As I said, spring time is a time for changes, and the counsel of the Lord can only help us make the better change! Happy days!

Speaking of changes. I started to cry on the bus today coming down the beautiful mountain overlooking a blue lake. I know I still have awhile, but the thought of changing what I am doing now and moving onto real life is something that does scare me at times. I hope you are all still happy, healthy, and in love with life. I am all of the above and more here in Italy and am full of gratitude for the wonderful blessings I have received here. I would almost, almost, call myself Italian.

We are taking the days of our lives and creating a story. The story that never ends, but keeps adding the pages. Any good book must be written well. This is why we must act but we also have time to change. I am learning to make sure I am writing mine well. But thank goodness for editors!

A happy day.
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

let us start the wave.

2010-03-24T21:49:00.001-07:00

It has been a couple of interesting weeks here in Como. A couple weeks that have helped me understand how grateful I am for the gospel and how much it has helped myself and us as a family. I know it is a lot easier to say than do, but the Gospel of Jesus Christ really can bring hope to a broken world and a broken life.

I am always meeting new people and learning about their lives. As I have stated previously, it is amazing how much people trust us and recognize us missionaries as people who can help. I am grateful for the spirit, because without it we could not offer any words of hope, but when the spirit is there to guide the recipient absolutely understands that we are just the instruments in God's hands. We have had a few great experiences teaching and speaking with people. My gratitude is great for the opportunity to teach the wonderful message of the Gospel.

Two weeks ago my companion and I attended a funeral of a woman in our ward. She was a mother of two teenagers and had been battling a tumor for quite some time. I had the privilege of getting to know her mother and sister while in Torino and it was an emotional reunion when we saw each other again. This sister was very well loved as there was no space for everyone in the chapel, but it was beautiful to celebrate a life and be reminded that the plan of salvation is real and in effect everyday of our lives. I got very emotional during the funeral as I put myself in the situation. To loose a loved one, a mother in fact, would be a great challenge for me. I thought about all mom has done for us and how grateful I am to still have her around cheering me on. As I think about the great role mothers play in our lives it is hard to imagine a world with out her, you mom. Although it is not always the happiest of occasions I am grateful to have been blessed by the spirit that afternoon with a greater appreciation for the knowledge of our purpose.

As the days passed, we spent much time teaching people about the hope and joy to be found in the gospel. Tamara, a friend of our new investigator here spent an evening with us learning about Jesus Christ and how he can help us overcome or difficulties in life. Her grandson was born with a disability. Her daughter just had another baby girl a month ago and they just found out the father has a tumor in his stomach. She feels like there is too much weight on her and there is no way to over come the pain and despair. Tamara is slowly accepting Jesus Christ as her true Savior and has agreed to start reading the Book of Mormon. We had already taught her a lot of the lessons and she said she is not ready to change religions, but after that evening together she looked at her situation differently. When we are living in the world it is often times hard to have hope for the future and eternity, but Tamara's eyes were opened a little bit and it was great to see her heart change through the spirit.

We received a phone call from the office who had a referral for us. Who does not like a referral!? Well this one is special. Lilu. She came to meet us after a relief society service activity on Monday morning in the church. She met one of our great member missionaries who conveniently speaks English. Lilu is looking for the comfort from God and called the missionaries a few weeks after meeting them in another city. She pulled out a photo book of her Daughter who passed away in December at 1.4 years. I imagine as a single mother you feel a little like your heart has been ripped out, stomped on, put back in and now your body just does not function the same way. Tears were shed for sadness and hope. Lilu is ready to hear the joy the gospel has to bring and she opened her heart right up to a God, our Heavenly Father, who she never really believed in before.

In situations like these, you never really know what to say. But I am still learning that the spirit does and sometimes the right words just come out and you know that God is speaking for you. These past few weeks have helped me feel much closer to my Father in Heaven and helped me understand more about our plan. I am still amazed everyday at the wonders of eternity, but I know it is all true. We just have to find out for ourselves. Truth is everywhere.

I love working as an instrument in the hands of the Lord.

We are going to start the wave,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

p.s. I rest in Como another six weeks. New companion coming tomorrow.
p.p.s. Mom, I ironed my pajamas this morning.

Via Milano.

2010-03-17T21:41:00.001-07:00

We do a type of lesson with members called "a power lesson." A quick spirit puncher and a sincere prayer offered by the member. We ask them to ask for inspiration as to where we can go to find investigators and I have now received Via Milano three times. Now that I have finished work one.5 times on the street we are starting over. Yesterday it was a good thing to get working on it right away because of a very special experience we had.

Her name is Michelle. A philipine mother of three. She became an investigator six weeks ago and has been rather hard to get ahold of as she is always at the hospital when we set up appointments. There was an evening we went out with a member from France who is preparing to serve a mission herself. This is when we happened upon Michelle and Ian who welcomed us into their home with open arms. We left a brief but spiritual message about the family and the blessings we can receive from God through faith and the restored gospel. This was the evening we learned about their entire family. Their oldest son Alesandro is autistic and for that they are often in the hospital. Our second visit was a "maybe we should go visit Michelle and Ian" instead since they had previously not been there for the appointment we scheduled. We ran home to get her Book of Mormon in Tagolog and went to go visit. She was surprisingly home and very happily received the Book of Mormon. Since she did not have much time we were able to leave with a little explanation of the book and make a return appointment. Lo and behold, they were at the hospital again and to be honest I have started to feel like maybe this is not their time. We have tried atleast three times a week to see them, but they are never home. Yesterday morning I was with Sorella Rossi on an exchange and we received from our wonderful Giustina to go do work on Via Milano, so we did!

We were walking to the bottom of the street to make our way back up when I saw an open door, we decided to take advantage and entered. We met a couple of individuals including a woman who knew us through her sister who I began teaching nearly 5 months ago. After we finised our door to door there, we continued to the end of the street. Sorella Rossi was new therefore I let her lead since I had done house two times and would be hesitant to pick an apartment I had already knocked. She chose the number 13 which was exactly the palazzo of Michelle and Ian. We rang them from outside, no answer. We did manage to get in, though, through a stranger. We started from the top down, but Michelle and Ian's door is the first. We knocked anyways not really expecting anything. To our surprise Michelle answered and again welcomed us in. We sat with her for thirty minutes and listened and taught. She began to cry as she told us of all the trials she is facing right now. The biggest being that she has not seen her son Alessandro for 4 weeks. He is going through intense therapy and has a hard time being away from his family so the doctors prefer that he does not see the family because it makes his progress slower. Through tears of my own I bore testimony that through our faith we can overcome these trials and the our Father in Heaven is right by our side. Michelle bore a strong testimony but is just like the rest of us because she needs the strength from God that she does not have herself. To sit with this 25 year old woman and talk about the atonement of our savior Jesus Christ made my testimony that much stronger and made me that much greater for the incredible blessings we as members of the Church of Jesus Christ have received. Michelle really believed what we had to tell her and she knows that the message we bring will bless her life more than she ever imagined. What a great blessing to bring restored truths to people who are searching!

At the end of the lesson our friend closed with one of the most powerful and sincere prayers I have ever heard in my life. Giustina told us to listen and it ended up being exactly the right thing. Listen to the spirit, listen to the people!

I always get emotional while writing e-mails because of what I learn while I tell you of my experiences. I am recognizing more and more as each day disappears the hand of the Lord in my life. I follow the same schedule everyday, but everyday is new and full of miracles. Have I told you I love my life! We are making a lot of progress and will hopefully be seeing our investigators do the same. They are definitely seeing the blessings of the gospel already in their life and will be seeing even more as they continue along the path God has prepared for them!

Michelle reminded me of the plan God really has prepared for each of us!

I can not help but smile.

From me, to you.
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll.

p.s. Happy Saint Patrick's day! I am wearing green, my companion is not and keeps wondering why I am pinching her! She even knows why!

p.p.s. A picture for your enjoyment. This is the statue of the hands in Como. I have no idea what it means.

p.p.p.s. I went without a Jacket yesterday! Spring is approaching!

Hands in Como

white ...

2010-03-10T21:40:00.000-07:00

is the color of my neighborhood again!

Red is the color of my cheeks.

Happy is the color of my soul.

It is funny how things happening on the other side of the world can have such a great affect on someone. I layed in my bed last Wednesday while reading letters and cried. Mostly I cried out of comfort and peace. It was such an inspiration to read the many testimonies mom forwarded to me which had a great impact on the rest of my week. We had an inspiring zone conference on Friday and this past week left me with a new resolve to do even better and reach even higher.

I think the mission experiences between my brother and I differ quite a bit. In stressful moments for the family I imagine it would be much more comforting to be all together. Although I love you all so much, I felt a great deal of help staying focused on my work here and accomplishing what I need to be doing. I am grateful for the service of a brother so dear to my heart and his testimony and strength. It is always a joy to hear about his successes and trials and especially in these moments I know how much of an impact he and his testimony have have on the wonderful people of Chile.

The lastest is on Silvia Sedano and her family. When I first met her three months ago she told me she did not know what she believed and had not even been teaching her children about God or Jesus Christ. A month or so later we were able to make another visit and she mentioned she was looking for a way to teach her children and help them gain a knowledge, but she wants them to make decisions for themselves. We had a few lessons since then, one specifically where she told us she was not ready. More specifically, not ready to pray. She told us she looks for just about any excuse not to believe, despite the fact that she wants to. We decided not to call her for a couple of days and waited until english class. She came up to us when we walked in the room and asked why it had been so long, circo 3 days... It was surprising since she had almost told us no at our previous lesson. We ended up at her house a couple days later where she prayed for the first time with us. Even though they are small passes, they are really huge passes in her life that will help her reach the divine potential God has for her and her family! It is nice to be a part of the blessings of the gospel! Silvia's son Giovanni, 5 years, explained to his cousin, 6 years, that we come to talk about Jesus Christ. Giovanni asked me at our first visit who Jesus Christ was, he must be learning something too!

All is well and truly happy in Como. I feel like a local here. I just have not picked up the valley girl northern italy accent. I am stuck with the american one.

I am, dear family,
very affectionately yours,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

times running out.

2010-03-03T18:31:00.002-07:00

I was going door to door when the elevator started moving. It made me nervous just a little bit because I had a very strong inkling this person was going to get off while we were knocking his door. This is true. Something happened right when he stepped off the elevator, nerves went away and we started talking to him. This man is actually the one who informed me of the big earthquake in Chile and I had a little panic. But at the same time it did not phase me because I knew my brother was being protected by the Lord. I appreciated the help I received in being calm this week even when we received opposition.

Sunday I was grateful for member missionary work when an 8 year old boy came up to ask me to review his dedication in a Book of Mormon he was preparing to gift to his religion teacher at school. I have been paying close attention to the children in the ward when we are in church and teach families and it amazes me their sensitivity to the gospel and its truths. No wonder we are commanded to become as little children; submissive, meek, humble and willing to submit to all things that our father seeth fit to inflict upon us. I am truly impressed at the testimonies these little people have to offer. Often times much purer and honest than our own.

With our fun weather games I like seeing the change people make from day to day. Although it is still chilly, the city changes when the sun comes out. The other day while on the bus I glanced out towards a park and saw a couple holding hands in their fancy clothes going for a walk with their dog. I think I like that aspect of Italy, the people get dressed up just to go outside. I also enjoy the fact that it is warming up because more people are outside on their private adventures, but little do they know we are searching for them. It is a roller coaster from day to day, everyone you meet is different and amazing. Last night I stopped a lady in a white marshmallow coat to ask a simple question about the city and start a conversation. She ended up telling us all about her family and that we will be seeing each other soon. Another lady looked at us and smiled when we said hello. It is not often you get a huge smile from someone on the street late at night but it was nice to have someone stop and talk to us. I think things are turning around, the more we receive opposition the more I recognize we are getting to closer to something good. I am learning, though, to count all things as good. Learning from challenges will help us all in ways that really are inexplicable.

I have been thinking about something for a little while now. What is the greatest event in all of Christian history to take place?

Naturally I think, the atonement of Jesus Christ. But then comes the first vision into mind and the Restoration of the Gospel and Priesthood authority. Although, obviously the atonement of Jesus Christ is the most important aspect of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, it is the Restoration that teaches the entire truth of what Christ did and how we can fully utilize it. I realize now, that without a living Prophet we would never understand our potential as children of God. Without the authority of the holy Priesthood of God, we could never return to live with our Father in Heaven. All of the true knowledge about the gospel of Jesus Christ comes back to the restoration of the gospel and keys through Joseph Smith. And to know if this is true relies on our faith, prayers and reading of the Book of Mormon. This week I am grateful and full of love for a Father in Heaven who loves us and trusts us enough to have received again the fullness of the gospel. I am grateful for the call to be a missionary and bring this message to those who are searching. We have had the opportunity to teach a few families in the past three weeks, these families are going to be wonderful additions to the Kingdom of God. I have the faith that we will be able to help them prepare to enter in the way! What a blessing to bear testimony of the truths of eternal families and an eternal father in heaven with eternal amounts of love.

Speaking of families, I laminated a couple photos this week of mine. Anytime I showed them to members or friends they said, "are these your friends?" When I said no these are my siblings they said, "oh, your brother looks Chinese." Ramsey, I love you. We can be the odd balls out, blonde and Chinese. Giustina claims that we have Chinese ancestors according to Ramsey's eyes. Family history work?

Do not worry family, I am a nice companion. My companion is awesome and we get along really well. She teaches me how to speak better English and wears a purple skirt which makes me really happy.

Hearts loves and hugs.

I keep you in my prayers.

in all aspects,
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

mrs. nezbit

2010-02-24T22:22:00.001-07:00

Do you remember in Toy Story, when Buzz gets depressed and the evil neighbor Sid wins the game for a little while. Yesterday the name Mrs. Nezbit came into my mind while teaching a lesson. I, for the longest time, could not think of where it was from. Then I remembered a pink flowered hat and a cowboy sneaking around the door trying to rescue his dear friend. My mission has taken the life of Buzz Lightyear, as of late I fell into a slump and I imagine through reading my letters you have too noticed this. Last night and this morning I have given much thought to the purpose of missionary work and specifically my purpose as a missionary here in Italy. Through the many difficulties and challenges that every missionary faces often times it is easy to let your eye off the ball, or so to say. I regret to say that there have been times that my determination was destroyed by difficulties. I know we are all imperfect people and there are times we all fall, but I have learned something through all this. No matter how tall the horse, there is a way to get back on. Good thing Woody is a Cowboy and can help his friend get back on.

This is actually a challenge we face often times with investigators who think all hope is lost. As of late, Monica has given up on everything. After we left her last Sunday she has given up. I know how important agency is, but when someone does not use it correctly is breaks a heart or two.

In the most recent searches for souls we have found a decent number of people interested in learning and making commitments. Have you ever read the Book of Mormon? It is changing lives for those who sincerely search for the truth. It has changed mine. Last week we finally made contact with a woman who mentioned we could return, so we tried not knowing if anything would come of it. She is a teacher in the catholic church. When we presented the Book of Mormon as another volume of scripture that testifies of Jesus Christ her eyes brightened and immediately became curious. When we bore testimony of the truthfulness within something changed in her heart. I have gained a great love for the bible since being in a Catholic country, and that love has only increased my understanding of the truth to be found in the Book of Mormon. Even if I cannot convince someone of the truth, I know this book can. As missionaries of the Restored Church of Jesus Christ we have the greatest tool to present the Plan of Salvation and the eternal destiny of our souls.

The man next to us is singing in Arabic.

The sun is shining.

We are happy to be spreading the good news of the restoration.

Our toilette works again.

I am playing the mean companion. My very first transfer in Italy I experienced being wet from head to toe thanks to a car (who went our of his way, mind you)and a puddle of water in the rain. On our way home the other night I saw a puddle and cars going through it. That was the place we were to stop and wait for the cross walk. I stepped back when I saw cars coming and my companion looked at me. Not even two seconds later she was splashed. At least is was not a big one ... I also like to play a little game of mother duck. With any companion really. When I take someone to a new place I have to lead because I only know the way. Usually they follow behind. Depending on the street I enjoy crossing back and forth (not too often, but often enough to be annoying) to see if they keep following. I am positive my co got annoyed yesterday because on the way home she walked 15 feet ahead of me the whole way.

I miss the bicycles.

Hearts from one to another.

And beyond.
Sorella Frèdèrique Stone Carroll

love.

2010-02-17T19:01:00.002-07:00

The only thing I do not love right now is this keyboard. Typos abound. Apologies.

I am happy to inform you that all is well and work is moving forward. New co, new goals, new opportunities. A little about the newest companion, she is from California and awesome. She is so much braver than I was and she even smiles when people yell at us. It is so much fun!

This week we passed all of our investigators to our partners in crime, the anziani. So we have spent many hours beating our knuckles against the door. I will tell you about Massimo. He is an artist for Disney kids books and is very happy. As a practicing Catholic he has a lot of faith in God and it is definitely manifest in his testimony. After he found out we could not come in to teach him we talked for some time outside his door. He is more of a Mormon than a Catholic based on what he believes, because he is the first I have met yet to talk to me about the Madonna. But really I love being able to testify to complete strangers of living prophets and know that they feel the spirit. I pray he will continue to feel the spirit and keep commitments to progress toward eternal salvation.

Sunday my new friend Diego came to church and sat next to me. He is more than ready to help his mom return to church and get his dad baptized based on how excited he was to do everything. He carried his Book of Mormon with pride and sang every hymn with me.

No more bikes for sister missionaries in Como because we had to return ours to Monica. We had borrowed them and now that we stopped working with her it only seemed right to return them. We left her with a spiritual thought Sunday when we brought them back and it was one of the more difficult lessons for me. I walked in and started crying. There was tobacco and cigarettes all over and nothing had changed since we last visited (meaning things on the table and in the sink, etc.). We read a short chapter from the Book of Mormon and bore testimony of the blessings of the gospel. Monica felt the spirit and knows what she can have, but the powers of the adversary and her own personal weaknesses are holding her back. Of course we all have weaknesses, but through our obedience we are able to find the strength to overcome the temptations that come our way. I love that our Father in Heaven does not leave us alone. The hardest part of this job is watching those you love not accept what you know they know they can have.

Cold in Como and loving life.
Family thank you for everything. I highly recommend you stop putting that cardboard cutout in pictures. (My red nose is less than attractive.) I'll be home soon enough to fill the empty space. Hah. Thank you for all the updates. Hearts loves and hugs.

Better letters to come in the future.

so happy together,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

ch-ch-ch-changes.

2010-02-10T21:13:00.000-07:00

Another 6 weeks in Como! Are you excited? I will get to see the beginning of winter to spring transformations! (Question, did the groundhog decide more winter? It snowed last week, then poured rain, and snowed again.)

As for my companion, she will be making her way to Modena for awhile. I will surely miss having an Italian companion, but I am also excited for another companion. I am going back to Milan tomorrow to bring home a new missionary. It will be another experience for me that I am looking forward to, but more so I am looking to learn!

Now that you all know about my changes I will tell you about this week. It started out with a lot of trials and stress, but at the end I am grateful for everything that I learned, even if I did not always do everything right. We were able to teach many people this week and most of the lessons were successful. We even discovered the problem that is holding Monica back, it is going to be a long road for us and her if we are going to overcome the problem. I am grateful for promptings from the spirit that tell me when we need to go see someone and also the gift of discernment that allows us to more fully understand the situations of our investigators. The more I think about it, the more grateful I am that Heavenly Father has trusted me enough to bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ to His children. There are only four missionaries in Como, we have a wonderful opportunity and a great responsibility being the bearers of the restored "good word" and the truth. It really is a bummer when people look at us as if we are evil. If only they would open their eyes and hearts to have a clearer understanding of the principles and doctrines we teach and practice. I promise I am not crazy to leave the comforts of home to live in a foreign land for a year and a half.

I always get side tracked. Saturday was a beautiful day for us and our work. We took the morning to visit a less-active and when she bore testimony to us I knew that we were in the right place at the right time. I could see her desire to come back, but having been offended she has yet to make the real decision. My heart hurts for the children of God who have been mistreated, but I also hurt that they are missing out on the fullness of the blessings. Later that afternoon we visited our investigator Rodolfo. We taught him about the restoration and he was excited to start reading the Book of Mormon. Both him and his brother Mario are searching for something more in their life, and thanks to the help of our member friend Nelly they are getting closer to their Father in Heaven! We left that appointment a little too late and raced to the train tracks to find as soon as we have locked the bikes our train was gone. We called our next appointment and informed them we would be late. The Bellofatto family, less active members. When we finally did arrive the daughter, Veronica, and her son, Diego, picked us up and I was so happy to finally meet her since we have been trying to contact them for the past 4 months. Diego is 7 and was so excited to receive his first Book of Mormon. His dad is a non member and things are looking up for the family. I am excited to start really teaching them and helping Veronica return to church with her whole family! Later that evening I biked up one of the steepest hills in Como to arrive at Luba's house to teach her friend Tamara. Tamara was invited to be baptized and has agreed to continue meeting with us until she finds her answer. Her problem right now is her ties with her family and he religion. Her parents were orthodox, her kids are orthodox, her husband... She can not make the decision right away, but she is searching!

The only part I do not like about Italy is that nearly every day I return home with the stench of cigarettes. Yes nearly everyone smokes and it is hard to avoid.

Como is wonderful and being prepared for the spring. Branch cutting, seed planting and city cleaning.

I stopped a few women on the street who were confused as to why I said hello. I wish people were more friendly with their neighbors so people would not feel so strange when someone said hi. But, the advantage is that they notice we are different and we have an excuse to introduce who we are!

Happy are we!

turn and face,
Sore Frédérique Stone Carroll

she's a maniac.

2010-02-03T21:12:00.000-07:00

Yellow scarf around the neck, helmet on top of the computer, name tag above my heart. I am still a sister missionary and I am happy to have a smile on my face. This past week has been a little difficult as far as our work goes, but it is nice to know that I still feel good.

Last Wednesday we dropped Monica as an investigator. Thursday I sat in the midst of 4 emotional, southern, Italian woman (my companion included) as they all attempted to talk over one another and tell their story. In the end, every time I tried to calm them down it just got more heated. It was not an argument, it was just a conversation that the entire apartment complex could hear because no one wanted to listen to the other. In the end, Luisa still decided she does not need to come to church. At least she accepts our visits and really we hope that one day her heart softens in forgiveness. I know life is difficult and honestly I could not imagine living in Luisa's situation (who has a husband in prison, experienced the death of a son because he drove drunk, and is waiting to hear if her other son will be going to jail or not), but that just shows us how much more need we have of the Lord. It is only through him that the bruises of our soul can be healed. We will keep praying for Luisa and her grand return, because she really is missed in church.

Saturday I played following the leader through traffic on our bikes. I think the first time I was scared to ride my bike was following Nelly to find a bench. Good thing I am commanded to wear my dutiful helmet.

Sunday evening we scheduled an appointment with our new investigator Silvia to meet her younger brother. We showed up and met the brother (Hans) and another sister (Elisabet). This sister we had previously met bringing a Book of Mormon to even another sister (Erica) who I met on the bus. All in all, in these past few months we have met four members of the same family who all live in separate houses with their own families, but it all was brought together and obviously there was someone elses hand in the work. We are starting teaching Silvia and her husband Mauro, who we also met on Sunday. They are full of knowledge about the world, history, other religions, etc they are just waiting (even if they do not know it) to hear the message of the restored Gospel.

Monday district meeting and a power lesson with a member. Door to door was planned for all evening. The first apartment complex was a little difficult to enter, but finally made it in. We knocked our first door and a neighbor came storming down the stairs and threatened to call the police. The lady at the door slammed it in our face, and another neighbor came out to yell at us. The first time in my life I was scared doing house. We left. Police, not a thrilling thought. We did notice that there was another set of stairs and lo and behold our first door yelled at us. It was time to go. With my habit of looking up at balconies outside I noticed that a man was watching our every move. Our first accuser. He watched us walk around the corner and then when he could not see us he ran to his bedroom window to be sure we were really leaving. My tail was definitely between my legs in great fear.

I am very excited about tonight because we have planned to do finding work with a member. It is something new, but I imagine we will see success! This member is from France and is working here in Italy while her brother goes to school. She told me she is thinking about serving a mission so we decided to invite her to some of our fun casa time. I'll let you know how it goes!

The weather has been doings its fun dance between bitter cold and perfect. I am glad that February has made its way in and before long the trees will be green.

New news, the missions in Italy will be reducing from three to two in July. There will be the mission of Rome and the mission of Milan. Tuscany will be added to my mission, the most beautiful part of Italy!

I send my love to you. Happy February!

on the floor,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

our lives passed away like as it were unto us,

2010-01-20T21:09:00.001-07:00

Dear friends and family,

I do not really know what to tell you about this week. My companions bike broke and it is freezing cold. I spent the past two days with a sister from North Pole, Alaska and she was even cold. There is my proof. Dad wants to hear more stories. This week has been more of a testimony builder for me than anything. Funny things happen, but more so I am a missionary and it is the little things that help me to understand what is really important.

I ran into my old friend, "the lies of the monkey," who told me I looked like some princess named Carolina (again) but this time mentioned that Carolina is taller and more beautiful than me. I love my friends here in Como.

Monica recieved a priesthood blessing on Monday night to help her quit smoking. She bore her testimony to me yesterday. She also mentioned that she does not have the desire to smoke so much. The power of the priesthood is real and will help, always according to our faith. It is always great to witness the changes she is making in her life to prepare herself for the baptismal covenant. Monica should be getting baptized in less than three weeks and we are so excited for her. I just pray the non participating ward will get excited about the salvation of one of their very own sisters.

We are working with a new convert/less active who seems to be going through it all right now. I wish I could help her more, but she has closed off her heart and has let other people get in the way of her relationship with her Heavenly Father. This is the hardest part of the work. Watching somone deny what they know because of pride. All I know is that I am grateful for the mercy of a loving Heavenly Father and the more we bear testimony to her the more faith I have that she will remember her convenants.

As for the life of Sorella Carroll, things are moving along. We are happy and working. We are avoiding discouragement and praying a lot.

I love you.
I miss you.

a dream,
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

and i am back

2010-01-13T21:05:00.002-07:00

I decided it was better for me to be in Italy than the party pooper at the wedding. Between a fever and the flu I would have probably been less fun than my piece of cardboard. I appreciate all the dancing you did with me. I really hope you mean it that we can relive all the festivities when I return because it looks like you threw a real party. Congratulations. I am excited to see all the pictures.

On Saturday, after meeting the Elders in church to receive a blessing we were heading back home and stopped in the post office to buy stamps. I ran into an old friend who I contacted on the street three months previously. (My first week in Como) In fact, I did not see her or recognize her but she ran up to me and started talking to me. As I waited for my companion to make her purchase I went to talk with this woman Pina and her brother Giuseppe. I had previously contacted the brother going door to door. Small world. They recounted that one month previously their mother passed away, whom I also met at the house of Giuseppe. Immediately my missionary instincts set in and we began to talk about the plan of salvation and how families can be united for time and all eternity. It was great because I was able to mention my sister who would be making that covenant that very same day. I was able to testify of the joy of eternal families and that God has a plan prepared for us. They remained pleased with the promises and we will be seeing each other soon, hopefully.

We may have ditched the bikes for a little bit because we think it is that which caused an illness, especially with the cold weather. For beautiful sunny days helmets will be on.

I have a series of pictures to send this evening so we are keeping things short.

I LOVE YOU ALL! Even the new brother.

Again,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

Family,
It looks like you pulled off a wedding! Good work, good work. Thank you for the pictures already.

Darien and Eric you make a beautiful couple, or handsome couple. Beautiful. I meant it when I asked for cute nieces and nephews.
Plus there is a little more time since I was informed I will be coming home at the end of July instead of June.

Summer school's bonked, but I am much happier spending a little more time on my mission. President informed me this week of my release date being July 30th. I am very happy about this. Maybe he will even be extending it to December and Robert and I can come home together!

This week I put my goals to paper and am very excited about accomplishing them. I decided to go to the more spiritual side of things and set my goals according to my patriarchal blessing. One in particular is temple and family history. I actually had planned to come here and tell you instead of summer school I would love to spend the summer doing family history. Maybe we, mom dad and myself, can have a little fun in August and make some progress. Thoughts? We can talk about this a little further along since it is still 6 months away.

Family, I love you so much! I miss you, but not too much. I know we are all moving along in this plan together. Keep up the good work.

Riqué

we need to have the same rhythm

2010-01-06T21:04:00.001-07:00

Happy January in the year of two thousand and ten.

I slept through the New Year. Boring, maybe. The life of a missionary. We were required to return home by 8:00 pm but the sound of fire crackers and parties were well heard through our walls. I did spend the eve teaching and we might have thrown in a dance party with an investigator. (The film will not be seen until I am 100% released.)

I bought myself a nice shiny black helmet, a sturdy lock, and a tire pump. I imagine you know what this all means...I am not a bike missionary. Only a few cities in the mission have this wonderful privilege and I finally convinced my co it was the thing to do. Plus everyone laughs at us because of our helmets and I love it. It has been much too long since my bicycle was stolen and I still remember how to ride! I thought I enjoyed a bike ride before the mission, I love it even more on the mission because I can be a missionary and cruise the streets of Como. Yes, I am a happy missionary. My co is learning to keep up.

This week I thoroughly enjoyed our finding work going door to door. Specifically one moment in particular. Signora Noemi. She took about 1 minute to unlock the door, which seems like an eternity when you are waiting, anxious and nervous. She opened a crack just enough to see her eyes and paintings that covered her wall. My companion started our introduction and the lady seemed less than interested, I jumped in and asked if she had painted those pictures on the wall. She smiled and flung the door open and responded with a proud SI! She quickly ushered us in to show us all her art. Murals to little wooden figures. Antique bibles to photographs. We made a connection with her since my companion is an artist and I pretend at times. She loved us immediately. We were able to talk about our service as missionaries and the Book of Mormon. This Saturday we are returning to bring her the book that will change her life.

This past month I have been re-reading the Book of Mormon doing a special study of the doctrines and Christ. As I teach people about the Book of Mormon I realize how much my life has changed due to the principles and truths that I read therein. Although it was written more than two thousand years ago I have a firm testimony that the Book of Mormon is the word of God and was written especially for our day. For me. For you. They labored diligently so that we would know to what source we can turn for a remission of our sins. It is a testimony of the Book of Mormon that truly gives someone the firm knowledge that we are children of a loving Heavenly Father and he is guiding us every step of the way.

love list:
I love the Book of Mormon.
I love retired, white, catholic missionaries that speak English like the Africans.
I love that our Bishop pulled out beer for Christmas lunch and it took me a second to realize it was non-alcoholic.
I love riding a bike and inviting people to hear the good news.
I love knocking doors to a man singing karaoke by himself.
I love my companion who tried to make bread in the microwave.
I love receiving new inspiration and changing my life to be a little better.
I love new years.
I love watching the changes and sacrifices people make in their lives to follow Jesus Christ.

I am here to be a missionary and representative of Jesus Christ. I am here to tell the world that Jesus Christ lives, and loves us. I am so happy to be here!

I know the party will go on without me, but we plan to party hardy without you too. :) I love you with all my banjo strings and heart stings. Happy wedding. Thanks for doing it right. I know my cardboard self knows how to get down on the dance floor too. I may just need a little assistance.

of the soul,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

everyday, gets a little closer.

2009-12-30T21:02:00.000-07:00

For the first time in what seems like forever I will be sticking around with the same companion. Sorella Ranieri and I have a lot of work to do and we get another 6 weeks to do it. Plus, it is the New Year and I have goals. Big goals. Goals that I pray will help many of God's children come to a better understanding of His love.

This week I have dedicated my studies to the word diligence and what it really means to be diligent. It is so easy in this world to lose track of what is really important. It is easy to put things aside or to get lazy because our natural man thinks he knows best. It is easy, when you do not have 100% support beside you, to relax in your work. But I made the decision that even if it is hard I will not get lazy. As I studied scriptures, ancient and modern, I learned that it is the diligence that brings us eternal life. Right now I am helping others find salvation, and am learning more and more everyday that "God is totally serious about his purpose 'to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man,' that his chief concern is [...] the growth of souls, the celestializing of the souls with whom he works." And I am working with him!

It is such a blessing to be here in Italy, sharing the gospel, inviting people to strengthen their faith, and represent the Lord Jesus Christ. We are the famous "mormons" according to a man this morning. More importantly, if we are obedient AND diligent, we can bring the spirit to touch the lives of others.

Monica Angilotti has accepted to be baptized. Monica has accepted to quit smoking and take upon herself the name of Christ and endure faithfully to the end. Monica's heart broke when I told her that we had to postpone her baptism due to her smoking habit. I do not know how it works in all missions, but here our investigators are asked to attend church at least four times and observe the Word of Wisdom for at least a month before making the covenant of baptism. Sadly, Monica was under the impression that she could still smoke after baptism until she completely quit. I had to be the mean missionary to tell her the news. At the end of the evening she cried, she cried a lot. I wanted to cry with her. I think she learned a little more of her testimony of the importance of baptism. I did too. Her efforts to be obedient in every way possible have been a blessing in more than just her life.

Last night we prepared a little lesson for her to feel the spirit. I cried and she cried because at that moment we both reconfirmed our knowledge that God does exist, does love us, is watching over for us, and responds to our prayers. It was a perfect ending to a day full of rejections.

I love how the Lord continues to bless me.
I am grateful for the testimony that I have gained since being on a mission. If I have the chance to go back in life this is one decision, to serve a mission, that I would make over and over again. Had I decided to stay home I may have been able to see my sister get married, but I would have passed up a million experience here in Italy. I reconfirmed for myself this past week that there is no where else in the world I would rather be.

Family I thank you for your endless support and love. Were it not for you, my faithful parents and siblings, I would have never gained a testimony of my Savior Jesus Christ. Thank you.

I hope the week after Christmas went well. I imagine you are all busy getting ready for the big excitement. Just know that I love you!

going faster than a rollercoaster.
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

i'm dreaming of a white christmas.

2009-12-23T16:34:00.000-07:00

Yes it is true. Christmas is very white this year and I am wandering the wet streets in heels until I can purchase black boots. Subito.

I felt just at home yesterday when I went to visit a new family and before we went in she gave us slippers to wear so that we would not dirty her floor. Mother, we are not the only ones. The only thing we are missing at home is dad in a plaid robe and a sweet polka-dot ascot around his neck. It was a delightful experience to teach this husband and wife with their granddaughter. At the beginning of the lesson I asked Carolina the three year old who Jesus Christ was. Although she did not really know, we pulled out a picture and she was drawn immediately to it. We talked about his birth and his life and how today we have his church restored so that we can return to God in our families for eternity. The wife seemed to listen intently. She told us she was not very religious and her husband is atheist. At the end of the lesson we gave Carolina a pass along card with a picture of Jesus Christ. She took it and placed it on her heart. Just like we all should do, place Christ on our heart.

Monday and Tuesday this week I spent with my companion from the MTC on a companion exchange. Nearly a year ago we were together and it was great to see how both of us have progressed and improved. We were able to make a few visits to new families and invite them to learn about Jesus Christ. It is great being able to celebrate this time of the year as a missionary. Even if it means being away from your family, it is just as great being able to share your love with others who really are our brother and sisters! I feel like I am just reconnecting with loved ones I once knew.

Christmas in the life of a missionary in the Milan Italy Mission: Everyday is a normal day. Except there is more joy in the hearts of the people around you. Tomorrow for Christmas Eve we will be going to our dear Giustina to eat and enjoy a little of the Christmas spirit. We will make our way to the Duomo of Como at about 11:00 pm to participate in midnight mass. I passed up the opportunity to go a year ago with my siblings, but I am glad to have an opportunity this year and to attend a tradition that many of my Italian neighbors participate in year to year.

Christmas will be a calm day, but still full of visits to our loved ones. My companion and I have been invited over to our bishop's house to have a Christmas lunch. Then we will be off to visit our friends who will be alone for the holiday. The holidays should never be spent alone so we are out to change that.

I am content about Christmas this year and love teaching about Jesus Christ. I only get one of this Christmases, so I am going to make it special.

I wish you all the merriest of Christmases. Remember what it really is about. This year the best gift you could give is your testimony of our Savior. As I search for the opportunity to do so, I pray that we may all do so. After all it is He who saves us. I pray for you daily and hope that you know I love you.

If only in my dreams.
Sorella Frèdèrique Stone Carroll.

daddy-o

2009-12-16T16:24:00.003-07:00

I LOVE YOU.

I'll start there.

Yesterday I sat in zone conference while missionaries, president, president's wife, and senior couple missionaries all bore testimony of our savior Jesus Christ. I sat, silently pondering what Christ has done for me personally. The answer came to be everything. As the days approach the universal celebration of His birth I am even more excited to be his representative. What a beautiful time to celebrate our Savior. I know I have said it before, but I will say it again...it is an incredible blessing to be able to carry his name with me.

As I mentioned last week, a man did stop and ask me if my name was Jesus Christ. I quickly corrected him, but it is always an honor to bear testimony of Him. The more you do it, the happier you will be. I have learned more than ever, a testimony of Christ is simply trying to be more like him every day. In the simple things.

As far as Joaquin goes, we met with his mom last week! He is safe in Peru and sends us his hello through his mother.

M is for Monica and her miraculous progression. Monica is an investigator who has been in and out since 1996. I witnessed a change right before my eyes. I will never forget the way I felt two weeks ago in a cluttered house while Monica looked me in the eyes and said "What you are doing is true." We had tried, what seems like, a million different approaches to teaching her and helping her pay attention. Monica is very intelligent and loves learning, therefore learning about the Church of Jesus Christ has been very interesting to her. I do not know if she every really gained a testimony of the truthfulness. It could have easily come and gone, as most of our testimonies rise and fall, but at this moment there is no way she could deny the spirit we have felt in our latest meetings. She came to church with us for the first time and I saw tears in her eyes during every meeting. If Monica isn't a miracle, than I do not know what is.

I probably tell you the same things every week. My love grows more and more. But my life has not changed. I am still roaming the streets of Italy searching for those who are ready for the truth. In fact a couple weeks ago my companion and I were walking home and I stopped at an apartment complex and felt, we should go in. The door was open to a pleasant surprise and we started knocking doors. Even if it was 8:30 at night I felt we should invite our neighbors to hear about the restored gospel.

Giusi asked through the door, "who is it" we told her and she said oh I am a Catholic Christian. I said "great! we are Christian too." She let us in. Her first thought was that we were Jehovah's Witnesses but we quickly explained who we are and what we do. We had a brief lesson and she said we could return. We have returned twice now to talk about the plan of salvation. Tonight she will hear for the first time the story of the Restoration. I do not know why I am so nervous about this one, but I pray that she will feel the spirit of the truth. That the story of Joseph Smith will touch her heart. Although we do not worship Joseph Smith we do revere him and his incredible faith. I am forever grateful for him and his prayer that he offered at the age of 14. All thanks to him, we now have the assurance that God loves us and has provided a way to return. The blessings from Him are endless, and they are for all of us!

My Italiana and I are doing wonderfully. I have noticed she is a little like me. Independent with no desire for help. A trial and error type of person. Maybe mom I understand your frustrations with me? A little? I am probably worse. Sorry. Besides the fact that we are both stubborn we get along great. I began to miss having fun with my companions and I am laughing again as we work which makes everything that much better. I have tried to make the work fun at least for myself, but it more enjoyable when your co is in it with you! I am grateful to have a smile on my face every day. (Even when my toes are frozen and I fall off the curb.)

Happy week before Christmas!

Thank you.

I'll finish here,
I love you.

Keep cooly cool.
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

p.s. Last week email problems will remain last weeks because...Myldsmail is teaming up with Google and I am getting a new email address. Next week I will begin with it. Since I am unaware of how the changes will go you can still write to me here.

Sorella Carroll and Santa Claus

e-mail trials.

2009-12-09T02:03:00.000-07:00

5:27 AM ET
I have now written two emails (1 hour and 18 minutes later) and this very poor website has cancelled them both. But rather than get angry I am just going to wish you a very happy week and will hopefully get to write you the following week.
I love you so much.
Until next week.

Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll.

11:19 AM ET
I decided to try this one last time.
10 minutes.

This past week was incredible. Miracles happened all over the place and I am just now recognizing them.

Monday evening, pooring rain, nine o'clock at night. Joqiun comes running around the corner in order to meet us on time and receive his Book of Mormon before he leaves for Peru. Joquin only finally started listening to us a few weeks back and came to church with us once. When I asked him on Sunday if we could come visit to bring him a new copy of the Book of Mormon he anxiously accepted. Then for him to say I will come find you was another thing. He told us that he is learning more about life and most importantly he learned how to pray. He even expressed how he felt when we came to visit. Now he is asking if we will still be around in February when he returns. I am praying he meets the missionaries in Peru.

The next miracle is Monica but that will have to wait for next week.

I love you family and friends.

I love walking past a man and him asking me if my name is Jesus Christ.

I love my life.

I love the word love.

Most of all I love my Savior Jesus Christ. I love being his representative. I love what he has done for you and for me. I am grateful for his love.

I absolutely love this season and the real reason we celebrate.

I love you.

LOVE,
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll.

you want to.

2009-12-02T07:56:00.002-07:00

I believe I forgot to tell you about the Sorella Carroll freakout moment a few weeks back. I was sound asleep in my bed, and am awoken by running water at 2:30 am. I thought, did I or my companion really leave the sink running? I got up to turn it off. The light was burned out in the bathroom, great. So I try the light in the hall. Nope that too. Bedroom, nothing. I open the bathroom door and find that it is very hot and I panic. Water heater broken and losing water all over. (We had received CO detectors previously from the mission because there was an incident in Spain with near deaths due to a broken water heater and CO excess in the missionaries apartment.) I thought I got light headed, woke up my companion and we ran outside. In the middle of my panic, like I thought we were going to die, I called President Dunaway. HAH. In the end it was just a broken water heater and we had no electricity for the morning. Poor president and the dramatic Sorella Carroll.

A couple weeks ago Dad sent me an article from when President Hinckley visited the members in Chile. There is a quote that I took from His talk with a beautiful promise. A promise that, yes, was given to the members in Chile but could very well apply to every member in the world. It goes as follows, "I want to say to every one of you that if you will live the gospel, if you will live in faith, if you will do what you ought to do, not only will you be blessed, but this entire people will be blessed, because the God of Heaven will smile upon you with love for you and for the land of which you are a part." I have been thinking a lot about my work here in Como. We are not seeing as much progress as we would like. Even though we are working hard, their is still patience needed. As I read this quote I felt at that very moment it applied to me. I even let a tear trickle down my face while reading it in my room. I know that if I continue to life the gospel and do it in faith and do EVERYTHING I ought to do, I will be blessed. But not only me, this entire people of Italy (or at least those I am serving with at the moment.) This really is a promise for the world. The lord blesses his righteous followers. Keep doing what is right, and I will too!

The past two Sundays in church have been very special to me. Not only have we had investigators show up, but the programs were very meaningful. Two weeks ago was the primary program. Oh how I have missed my favorite Sunday of the year being in a student ward in cougar land. The children sang songs and gave talked about eternal families. To hear an 8 year boy bear testimony of his baptism and his eternal family made me really appreciate the blessings of the gospel. Even an 8 year old child can understand its importance. The spirit touched me as I know it reached out to all who were in attendance. This past Sunday was a sacrament meeting for the Young Women. It reminded me of the one we used to do after girls camp. During the talk of one of the girls who bore testimony of the importance of being prepared, reminded me of a talk I gave in Sacrament after our girls camp of the Ten Virgins. That was one of the first moments I really gained a testimony of the importance of being prepared spiritually. As this girl spoke I remembered how I felt standing in front of the ward. I could hardly get the first sentence out and the spirit testified to me that what I was saying was true. I learned so much in my youth that I hardly put into practice, and now I am remember the importance and try to teach it to others.

The topic of discussion these days has been "the last days." When people read our name tag they say (because the direct translation of Dei Santi Degli Ultimi Giorni is The saints of the last days) "you believe we are in the last days?" or "The world is going to end soon?" or "What do you think about 2012?" To me none of this matters: when and how the second coming of Jesus Christ happens. Just that it does happen and I am prepared for it. No one knows the hour or the day. But God has prepared a way for us to be ready. God has loved us enough to restore the gospel and priesthood authority that we could make covenants and prepare ourselves for eternal life in the Celestial Kingdom.

Last night we had a return appointment with an older couple. We walked in to teach them the lesson of the restoration. At the end the man said "I have had 70 years in my faith and there is no way I can change." I reassured him I was not here to convince him, but let him know that God has called a prophet and our invite was for them to search it out for themselves. The man simply said, even if I am wrong I won't do it because I am closed in my ideas. We left them with a testimony that God is our Eternal Father in Heaven and that Jesus Christ, our older brother, is our savior. They want for us to return to them, but that is up to us whether we do or not. It breaks my heart when someone will not even try. But that is the nature of many people. I pray daily that someone I meet will be prepared to hear the message of the restoration and recognize its truthfulness.

I know the Lord is preparing people for me to teach. I am ready. I love doing this work, even when I want to cry because of the pain.

Happiest December. The lights are on in centro and it feels just like home. In fact, last Saturday we decided to do some work in centro where there were hundreds of people. It was like the festival of lights, activities for the kids, people selling things, the only addition here is an out door ice skating rink. Christmas is just around the corner! I am glad to share the real spirit of the season and wear His name on my heart!

Thank you for the many birthday wishes. I imagine this is going to be one of the best birthdays ever!

I love you!

I want to,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

oh mexico.

2009-11-25T07:50:00.002-07:00

That's where I want to goooo...

But really, next year I will want to be there.

I hope Thanksgiving is fabulous for you all. I will not be celebrating this year since I am the only American sister around. Yes, my new companion is Italian. Plus, today being preparation day would be my only day to celebrate, but as our day has it, we only have time to do email. We will soon be running across the boarder to Switzerland for an appointment, and back to Italy for two more appointments. Busy day, but this is what I love about missionary work. Happy Wednesday in MEXICO!

So I have a new companion. She was born in Milano but at the age of 13 moved to Calabria (southern Italy). It is interesting being with a native, who definitely teaches me more than I could teach her. New missionaries are always better than old ones, and she is teaching me a thing or two about my work, the culture, and the language. Maybe "someone" is trying to tell me I need to actually get this language down, instead of just faking it. This co comes from a family of 9, one older brother on a mission in Rome and 5 younger siblings. We are doing well and are seeing miracles, even if not everything goes according to plan.

Yesterday doing our fun door to door hunting an old woman in a wheel chair let us in. We talked, she told us she was a real believer. In fact, she told us she believes too much. We knew she was catholic from the outside of her door in which is placed a rather large photo of Padre Pio. We walk in to find other little treasures from the catholic church gift shop. She started to point out all that she had and that she believed. I waited for about 5 minutes for her to tell me something about Jesus Christ. She continued with the Madonna, Padre Pio, other Saints, the madonna, even an image with Mary and baby Jesus (but only mentioned Mary). I wanted to cry for her at that moment. Not that this woman is a bad person, but how could one forget so easily the reason she has life? I do not think she even mentioned our Saviors name once. We tried to talk to her about who He is without much success. What has happened to our world who has forgotten about our Redeemer?

We, all of us, have a rather large responsibility to bear witness of Jesus Christ. Everyone here sees his name next to mine, but like I said a few weeks ago I hope my actions and words also show that I am his disciple.

Can I tell you a sad story? We have a convert of a little over a year that has requested we visit every week. She is in need of support, for problems in the family, and we are more than willing to offer what we can. Last night she told me that she did not come to church on Sunday because her usual ride forgot, or just did not go get her. It is hard for her to get to church alone because she has a bad back and a long walk to the bus stop. She said that before she was baptized the members were always willing to help. Always at her house. Being her friend. Calling her. Then came the baptism and has been abandoned. I sadly have actually noticed this with other converts and less actives in not only this ward but others as well.

I wonder if I did that when I was at home. It is so easy to get excited about a new investigator, get them ready for baptism and once they make it we dust off our hands and move on to the next. How many new converts go less active within the year? Too many. It is not that we want more members for our own stories of success, but we are trying to save souls. Yes, part of it is personal (which thank goodness this woman has a strong testimony of the gospel that she does not need to rely on the members anymore) but part of it is our responsibility as members. I am just venting...sorry. It is like raising a child. As children we rely on parents or leaders for our testimonies until we gain our own. But even after that we are not left to fend for ourselves, parents still care for the children. New converts are in need of that care and strength. This is not a game like some people may think. I am praying that we will find a better way to help these new members find the strength in our Savior and also his saints.

Last night I ran for the bus and missed two because I ran too far.

I wish my companions wanted to get bikes. We are allowed bicycles but my companions have been less than excited about the idea. I will continue to run for the bus.

I love you all. Happy Turkey. You can celebrate my birthday in the Mexican restaurants for old times sake, just try it without the tequila.

Cheers to the Pioneers.
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll.

la settimana di luce. (the week of lights)

2009-11-18T07:58:00.001-07:00

Well family, it is time for changes again. Tomorrow I make the trip to Milan to bring a new companion back to Como. Companion number 8! I am excited! Plus I get to spend Christmas in Como. I live on Viale Roosevelt, 12 [click here for map] which is right next to one of the main streets that leads to centro. They are hanging Christmas lights down the road and everyone is starting to get into the spirit. The magic of the season begins!

Remember I had the goal to learn how to whistle a tune on my mission. Well I think I finally learned. I used to whistle hymns walking down the street, but I was informed by a dear member that it was inappropriate for a girl to whistle. Ooops. Is it also inappropriate in the United States and I just am oblivious?

A few weeks ago I was walking home with my companion. There is a rather large catholic church where a man plays his accordion. I have a few cents in my pocket and felt the need to give him something. It was probably just 15 cents, but it was all I had. I dropped it in and left. I believe a few nights later we were home a few minutes early so we decided to walk around and find someone to talk to. A little man was walking across the street so I greeted him. He was so excited to talk to us and just started rattling things off. It took us a few minutes to learn he was from Romania and had only been in Italy a few weeks.

We gave him a pass-along-card with the address of the church since there was not much we could do. We saw him a few days later and said hello. A couple more days went by and he stopped us to ask about the church. He could only say "Gesù" (Jesus) and we pulled out another pass-along-card to give him with the address. Then to our surprise he opened his little wallet and pulled out the one we already gave him. I said "bus numero uno" and pointed in the direction of the area of the church. Then he started talking and talking. Since we were near our apartment I asked him to wait 2 minutes and we ran inside to get him a Book of Mormon in Romanian. This was our only mode of communication, he could read the Book of Mormon. He gladly received it and started to look in the back for hymns. When he found nothing he started to sing. He sang a whole hymn to my companion and I on the street. By the end he was crying and walked away. It was a special moment with Lucian.

We were sitting in Gospel Principles when the door opened and Lucian and a friend were lead to a couple empty seats. I believe they are homeless, but took the time to gel their hair and walk all the way to church (a 20 minute bus ride up hill). I was actually very surprised he came, not to mention with a friend. They understood nothing, but the Anziani took over and were able to set up an appointment with a Romanian family in the ward to teach them. Yesterday evening we were walking by the Catholic church and I noticed that it was Lucian, the accordion player. Again, who knows what is going to happen, but I was glad to meet someone who already had much love for Christ and was willing to put in the effort to do more.

I am excited for everyday. You never know who you are going to meet!

Another story. Lucia De Tommaso who lives on Via Ferrari number seven. I saw her walking up a hill with a couple grocery bags from the market. Being in her late eighties she was struggling a little bit. I decided we could help her. She gladly accepted calling us her "marvelous little girls" or "angels." She was walking back up the hill to find an umbrella that she lost. First she thought it was in the church because she had gone to Mass that morning. When we did not find it there we started back down the hill. About every 2 minutes she asked us if it was okay that we helped her. I reassured her that was what we are here for.

About 30 minutes later we found the umbrella, she was praying the whole time, while I had no idea how she was going to find it. The market seemed like a difficult place to find anything. She took us back to her house and introduced us to her husband. They were so sweet and invited us back anytime. We shared a message with them and asked if we could pray. After I prayed she got excited and started reciting her prayers. We remained reverent. At the end her husband noticed that we did not make the sign of the cross when we prayed, Lucia explained that were not Catholics but were Christians. Then he says, "oh okay, non practicing Christians." We will be explaining a little more when we return.

I tell you right now I am very much a practicing Christian. Of course I can improve, but I practice what I preach and I preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Again, I repeat, I can always improve and am working on it!

Thank you for all the updates at home, I am glad to hear that all is going well. I love you and miss you! Thank you for your prayers, love, concern, help, support, examples, etc. etc. etc.!

heart it races.
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

P.S.
I sent a package home, finally. It does not have very much exciting stuff. Not like you send me. Sorry. I hope you get it. Picture CDs also went in the mail.

I wish I could tell you something about my new companion, but I do not even know her name. She is going to be spending at least her first transfer with me. Last night when we got the phone call from our zone leaders I was sure Sorella Casalino and I would be staying together. I was not even worried about a big change. Then they gave us the news. All I know, is I will be relying a lot on the Lord to help me do a good job being a good companion. I have yet to be so nervous about a call. I will meet her tomorrow morning bright and early!

Happy week, happy wedding planning, happy seminary, happy pittsburgh, happy chile, happy idaho, happy school, exams, fun, life, and everything else you are doing!

Riqué

blank.

2009-11-11T21:29:00.002-07:00

Dear loved ones.

I am happy to tell you that I am still a missionary roaming the streets of Como. I do not know why I would be anywhere else, but I am just happy about that. Even in the moments that I miss you, I still manage to find something to smile about here. The joys of sharing the gospel.

This past week ended well and a new week started. I wish I could remember all that has happened...Maybe I will tell you about Sunday.

Sunday was a special Sunday for me. Before, during and after church. We had nothing planned for the day, all things we wanted to do, but nothing set in stone. We departed for church, all the while I was praying to hear something that would help me find more hope in my work as a missionary. (It gets, at times, discouraging when you are rejected all so often.) I just prayed to feel the spirit. I did. I was more aware of the silent whisperings than ever before.

It started in Relief Society. Sunday school was incredible and I even learned things I have never heard before. Finally, sacrament meeting! Before the meeting started I watched a recent convert who recently received the Melchizedec priesthood practice the prayer. He was so focused and a little nervous. It made me understand even a little more about how important the sacrament prayer and partaking of the sacrament are. I take the opportunity for granted sometimes, but when I really think about it I am actually renewing the covenants I made when I was 8. It is like being baptized all over again, as along as I partake worthily. What a blessing to have that promise of forgiveness! I paid attention to the words of the Hymns and was strengthened even mor through that spirit. Then the talks.

The last talk was given by an Anziano, there are two Anziani and two Sorelle in our ward here. Topic: Missionary Work. He shared with us an experience earlier in his mission. An investigator came to a fast and testimony meeting and left very disappointed because he heard nothing said about Christ. If our church really is "The Church of Jesus Christ" then why would not even one person bear testimony of Him. This comment caused Anziano Murdock to think about what he does as a missionary and member of the church. The question came, "Is everything I do centered around Christ?" I thought about that, a lot. In fact still thinking about it, obviously. I wear his name on my tag, above my heart. It is he 2nd biggest name (next to mine) that one sees. How important is it that I represent Him with ALL respect. With or without the name tag. My new daily question is that. After all, it is Him that saves us.

On my way to write you I stood on the bus next to a teenage boy who looked at my tag. When I caught him he quickly looked away. I asked if he had ever seen missionaries with the same tag. No. He just saw the name Gesù Cristo and told me he freaked out. I asked him why. He would not tell me. I invited him to learn more about Christ and to come to church. Although not super interested there is the possibility that he makes the change in his life sooner than later. That conversation was much better than the four teenagers who got on the bus looked at me and my tag and literally laughed at me this morning. It is a good thing I like being a missionary.

The rest of Sunday...
Our member friend Nelly called us right after church to explain that she did not set the alarm and that is why she was absent from the meetings. She invited us over to dinner where we met Joquin again. Nelly is from Peru and here with out her family. Joquin is 19 years old, from Peru and the son of Nelly's friend. He ate with us and let us share another spiritual thought. Apparently he has never listened to the missionaries before, and this time he accepted to meet with us next week after reading a chapter in the Book of Mormon. People really do change. Of course I have no ending, but it was a good beginning.

Then we called a family we met the day before and they said sure come on over. One of the nicest Italian families I have ever met! Pasquale, Paola and Valentina. It is always something exciting when you find a family!

The rest of the evening was here and there running into potentials and investigators and making more friends. I love happy Sundays.

I am making more friends and using them as substitute family till I see you. Thank you for making this experience all that much better! I love you and I miss you more than you know.

Friends.
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

Family,
Did I tell you I was counting down until Christmas? Bad missionary. I am excited to celebrate it here, christmas lights are already going up! I am more excited to hear your voices. I know I still have a bit of time, but I am still excited!

I told Darien I was missing you a little more than I should, but thank you for all the information and news on what you have been doing. I love to hear the little things about your life.

Mother, I am sorry about Rae and I will keep her and her family in my prayers. We are truly blessed to have a testimony of the atonement and how it saves us from temporal and spiritual death. We have the promise because Christ gave his life out of love. I talk to many people here who have no hope or do not believe in Christ as our savior. I am happy to be a representative of Him and bear my testimony everyday of my gratitude for the plan of salvation. I could never deny it to be true, even if 5 Muslim men in the past 2 days have tried to tell me I am wrong.

I love you. Keeeeeeep going!

Riqué

everything good goes here.

2009-11-04T21:26:00.001-07:00

Letters from mother, father and sister all included Eric in the first line so I thought I might as well too. Sounds like a fun week and I will tell you, I can not wait to come back home to join in on the fun. Good thing, though, I am having fun here!
Today I met the man who (apparently) lives next door to George Clooney. He does not believe in using paper, therefore would not accept the pass-a-long card I attempted to put in his shirt pocket while my hands were full of grocery bags. He could just be crazy (like the rest of us) with holes in our hats and dirt on our shoes. I threw away the cheetah boots due to some rather big holes that just appeared one day. Brown shoes, destroyed. Messenger bag, almost destroyed. (Side note, Darien or Dad do you know if there is a warranty on Manhattan portage, because if so maybe I do not need to buy a whole new bag. It is just the zipper that is broke. So 'destroyed' was an exaggeration, story of my life.)

In the life of a missionary it is obvious that you would be meeting a number of people. Last week was no exception.

Last Thursday I met Maria on the bus. I leaned over and complimented her on her scarf. Next thing I know it is around my neck. Maria gave me her scarf.

Frederica and I bonded over having the same name. She is interested in learning about eternal families, so we are going to teach her.

Mustapha believes religion was created to tame the savage man. The Gospel of Jesus Christ was put in place, I guess you could say to "tame the savage man." We will also be meeting with him again. I forgot my bus pass on my desk after lunch on Monday but did not realize it until we were too far to go back. Companion had an extra to get me to the top of the hill. Returning that evening would have been a long walk, so we walked into the Tabaccheria. There stood Fernanda, like she was waiting for us. Bought the tickets, but I could not help but notice her staring at us and our name tags. I started to just talk to her. It turned into a 30 minute conversation about the restoration of the Gospel and parts of the Plan of Salvation. At one point, Fernanda started talking with no pauses. She just told us what was on her mind and finally said..."Why am I saying all this?" I believe it was because she knew we could answer her questions. She is excited to introduce us to her family!

Yesterday we had time to do finding work. Door to door was the decision. We met Emma as she got off the elevator. I asked about her family, told her a little about me, and she invited us in to see the pictures. She then showed us a picture of her daughter at the age of 4 or 5 before she passed away. She said she believed her daughter was with God. I told her she was right. Then she said "How do you know?" We will be visiting her. Although we did not teach a lesson to Emma (due to her lack of time), I asked if we could pray with her. She agreed. After I said the prayer she looked at me and said "thank you, I needed that prayer." I saw a miracle unfold before my eyes with Emma. She was closed and had no interest in the beginning, but as soon as we showed her we actually cared about her she understood a little more that we could possibly have something she has been searching for.

I do not have the end of the story for any of these individuals, but whatever happens I hope they know their Father in Heaven does love them!

Tonight I am going to visit Monica Angliotti to invite her to be baptized. We are praying that this time she commits.

I love my life!

I love you!

your affectionate friend,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

Lines that I couldn't change.

2009-10-28T21:25:00.001-07:00

Today I have so much to talk about and no time to do it. We are running short today because high maintenance Riqué had to buy new shoes (finally). My poor companion. I found good, sturdy shoes that should last me till I see your smiling faces. We also are cutting our prep day a little short so that we can see an old investigator who has not been visited by the sorelle due to her schedule. She comes to church nearly every Sunday, just waiting on the divorce so she can marry the other man and be baptized! We will see.

Sad news, I just received word from Sorella Huber that Maria DiFranco will not be getting baptized on Halloween. Apparently it was a decision between her husband and the church. It is a tough decision when you do not have full support from your husband. We hope all the best, but keep your prayers going. Thank you.

As for the work here in Como, things are flying. Weird that I communicate with you only four times a month. When I think every week I get to write it feels like a lot, then I look back at my stack of old emails and think, “that is all?”

Last Wednesday I ran into a pole on my way home from internet. Literally. I hope someone else saw. Then Thursday comes and I am happily walking down some concrete stairs in the rain to visit Ernestina (an 80 or year old lady who gladly accepts gospel discussion, but does not understand exactly what we are teaching and the importance to her...a tough cookie. I think she likes the company. I wish it was not so difficult to leave behind people, but she may have to be put on the back burner for some time.) I slipped, fell to my knees, my bag flew over my head and my face went into the ground. All is well, brand new tights destroyed. A few good wounds on the knees for proof. Just funny that I can not walk. Nearly 22 years old and I am still learning the art of walking and paying attention.

Sunday the Stake of Milano (which Como takes part in) had stake conference with General Authority Elder Gérald Caussé. It was an inspired two hours that helped me appreciate even more the divine guidance we receive as members of a divine church. I often times feel very sad for those who believe revelation between God and man has come to an end. I suppose this is why I am here, to help people truly feel that God loves us just as much as he loves his children in times past. I am grateful for a living Prophet who speaks directly with our Father in Heaven and our Savior Jesus Christ so that we can be better prepared for the ills that have and will continue to come.

At the end of our conference Anziano Caussé held a meeting for all the new converts. Us missionaries were able to listen. Anziano Caussé wanted to meet all the recent converts so the bishops introduced them all. I walked in the wrong entrance but was privileged to stand in front of the crowded room. I watched as all the faces smiled and their eyes bore testimony of their happiness. In fact, there was a couple who has very recently been through the temple together, to be sealed for time and all eternity. When their branch president explained their story to Anziano Caussé tears filled the woman's eyes. I felt for a moment her eternal joy. My eyes filled with sweet water as I thought about the eternal joys you, my family, and I enjoy. Then I thought about those joys that will continue to be added upon as my sister enters into the covenant with marriage with this selected Eric. One day, hopefully, I will add to it and Robert and Ramsey (and mother, yes the grandkids too.) I could not imagine eternity without you all in it. So thank you for being what and who you need to be, I will continue to work hard so that we can all be there together.

My favorite response at the door after we present what we have to offer is “there is no one here.” I do not know if the Italians think we American's are stupid. That could be it, but we are clearly talking to someone (often times looking them in the face) and they announce that no one is home. Thank you. Since most of the house finding we do is in apartment buildings I have developed a habit of always looking up (while we are ringing the citofono) to the balconies in case some one comes out and we can talk to them. It is my favorite when they peek over very slowly, see me, and quicker than you can say “Ciao,” have gone inside and locked the door. Five minutes, all it takes. At least there are those who are willing and ready to receive!

In fact, a few evenings ago we ran into an ex-investigator who started to talk to us. She seemed very happy to see us. When I asked her briefly her “story” she had a light in her eyes as she talked about the church. I looked up her information when we got home and found that she had been through quite a bit with the sister missionaries. We went to visit her two days ago and will see her tonight. Even if there were challenges in the past, I have learned that we do not happen upon anyone for no reason. The way she looked at me and the way she spoke to me on that bus caused me to feel like there was something we could do for her. Even if it is just to help her make a little more progress. Monica is her name.

No, I do not remember what I wrote.
Como has warmed up, we are happy. Dad has mentioned Darien's new home will be colder. Maybe I am just a big baby.
Glad the celebrating is still happening.
Have a wonderful week wherever you may be.
Here in Italy, I am expecting a good one too.

In my place,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

The lies of the monkey.

2009-10-21T21:23:00.001-07:00

To my dearests.

I start by telling you the old ladies here mow their lawns in nylons and skirts. An old man came up to me yesterday and started chanting “la balla della schimmia” in my face. I later learned that “balla” means lies, never heard that version of the word I thought it meant dance. Translated: The lies of the monkey. I met my favorite comasco family, an artist couple with two kids.

Everyday is an adventure. Everyday is full of miracles. Miracles that sometimes I wonder why I am so blessed to witness. Amid difficulties, I managed to find peace. Everyday last week I took lunch time and evening time to listen to, read and ponder the words of our church leaders. It was in the silent moments in our room that I really learned of my Heavenly Father's love and guidance. Even when I am imperfect or selfish He still is offering help. Silent whisperings of the spirit, leading me to more happiness and comfort. This is the joy of a loving Heavenly Father I am trying to help others understand. I stood at the door of an apartment where two young men lived. One kept claiming this life is just for suffering and God does not exist. He said other things, but my only response was God does exist, He does loves you. I invited him to search it out. Since we could not enter the house without another woman we left a DVD called “Finding Happiness.” We will be visiting tonight to get back our movie. Hopefully Roggero has done some thinking.

Last week I sat next to a man named Richard on the bus. We went to visit him and his family on Sunday. Richard has put a lot of trust in us two 21 (almost 22! woo!) year old girls. He is interested in what we have to offer, but we keep trying to reassure him it is nothing that we have, it is what God will do. We are just His messengers. It is actually very strange how much trust everyone puts in us. Something I started noticing as a missionary is that people really to look at me like a representative of Jesus Christ. I wear His name above my heart, literally. An experience that I would never trade for a million dollars.

I wish I had news of baptisms and excitement, but I do have news of new investigators with plenty of will to learn. I am seeing my new dearest friends make changes in their lives without even knowing it. I have secret eyes that they do not have.

All is well in Italy. The weather is getting colder and colder. The humidity reaches right to the bones. I started getting smart by sleeping with the hair dryer next to bed to when I get cold I can warm up the bed in a minute. Doubled up nylons. Scarfs. And luckily today is only rain. Como and I have fallen in love.

Happy 100 degree weather, school, wedding planning, family fun, love, Halloween, etc.

La Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

All the way from Como.

2009-10-14T21:20:00.001-07:00

Well, I will start by recommending a honeymoon location. If you even want my opinion at all, it is Como Italy. This city is beautiful and full of wonderful people. Although I love every moment here, I find myself missing Torino. I know this dream land will quickly become my home. It is a good thing I lived in Provo for three winters because I am going to have a very cold one here. Our apartment has a broken window and the heaters have yet to be turned on in the complex. Cold showers happen, I am just glad that I am not bathing with a cup. I am happy to be here, nylons and all!

One thing is for sure, the work here is much different. Adjustments are being made. There is not much progress with investigators so Sorella Casalino and I are on the hunt. Sorella Casalino has been here for her first two transfers and we are going on her number three. She is a great missionary. Our biggest excitements are getting lost together. I think I almost have the city down. This might be the fastest I have ever learned an area! Maybe my memory is improving.

Sunday number one was incredible. In fact, I feel like I knew all the members already. They are so wonderful, caring, helpful and full of life. Everyone is more than excited to help with our work and they have great goals to help their brothers and sisters find the restored gospel. A missionaries dream come true! Since I am completely new to the ward and the area I have a lot to learn, but I can tell that I will have plenty of help and support.

Would you like to know a little about my traveling companion? Sorella Sara Casalino was born in Southern Italy. At the age of 7 her parents migrated to the United States. The family currently lives in Rexburg, Idaho. And I thought Darien would be living in her own private Idaho, I am getting a little taste of it myself. She tells me she likes to write and draw anime. I enjoy her little quirks, I hope she enjoys mine.
I might have scared my poor companion on Sunday evening. We were having our regular “count the numbers” and planning session. I would like to share my emotional breakdown. We were talking about our Monday when one thing led to another and I began to cry. I do not cry very often on my mission. Maybe once a transfer, you just always hear about it. Anyway, I began to talk about missionary work and my thoughts about it. I bore a testimony that I did not really know I had. I knew I loved the work and I knew I would miss being a full time missionary one day, but I did not realize what was really going on inside me. The Lord helped me see as I spoke to my companion. I just want to say that I am so grateful for this time I have to serve. I am so grateful for the blessings of the Lord in my life. Missionary work is often talked about as making sacrifices – which sure sometimes you do eat two hours late or you do miss a couple hours of your preparation day, or you have (literally) cold feet or a head ache, and the list goes on – but in the end we see that it was not much of a sacrifice at all. The Lord gave you more than you probably gave. I am learning every day that this is not about me but about my brothers and sisters. About the eternal progression of others. I benefit in the end, but as long as I forget myself I will get more work done. The principle of diligence is staying on the top of my list. For the rest of my life.

Now I would like to tell you about some interesting experiences from this week. Probably mentioned already, but we have a mission goal of 10 invites everyday. That is 10 per person. 20 per companionship. I at one point had a fear of talking to people, now I am helping my companion get over the fear. She is getting better already! We are working together to reach the mission goal and to show the Lord we are willing to do all that is asked of us. In the mean time you get numbers and appointments to visit people! Karina was my favorite invite of the week. I noticed her reading on the bus so I asked her if she liked to read. I proceeded to tell her about the Book of Mormon. She did not want to accept an appointment for us to come, so I handed her the book in my bag. Who knows what will come of it, but I made a new friend in Como!
Sunday we had a return appointment to visit a couple from Africa that the sisters had met before I came. We headed over after church to find they were not around. We moved on to our other plans and visits are were turned down to both appointments. In the end we did finding work, success in the fact that we were able to talk to many people. That evening as our house finding was coming to a close we decided to hop on a bus and to a little talking. We happened to get on the wrong bus when everyone got off a few stops later. I decided, not effective, so we got off the next stop and walked across the street. The next bus had a few people so we got on and headed back. I noticed a woman look at my companion like she wanted to say something but did not since she kept walking to the back. I decided to stay next to the lady and started a conversation about getting directions. Even if I knew the way, you gotta do what you gotta do. She told me she was from Ghana and I said I have a cousin serving a mission there. (Elder Healey is in Ghana, right?) Then I asked her if she had seen missionaries like us and she proceeded to tell me that the sisters had visited her and her husband the week earlier and were supposed to come back today. Well, we found our African couple and got the right phone number this time. The merciful hand of the Lord at the end of a long day.

I have officially decided I need to learn Spanish, Ukranian, Russian, Romanian, Albanian, Chinese, German, diverse dialects from Africa and continue the Italian. According to everyone here I do not speak English I speak American.

A man I met the other day told me that the Mormons are “delicious people.” Good word choice.

Tip of the week: Do not give an Italian man a pair of scissors and your head of hair. Too bad I did not learn the language of hair when I came on my mission. We are not short short, but much shorter than I asked.

Week one in Como. Check. Life is great!

Yours very affectionately,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

Jesus loves you more than you know.

2009-10-07T20:45:00.001-07:00

Family,

I want to write you a personal letter today.

It seems mom and dad are anxious to know what the big change is tomorrow! I will tell you that I am going to have a great film reference when I baptize George Clooney in Como! Yes that is right, I am going to Como, Italy. I am beyond excited because I hear only good things about the beautiful city on the lake. No tears yet, but I am sad to leave all of my friends here in Torino. I have made many eternal friends that I will one day meet again.

I have done a lot of growing up here in Torino. Torino, basically being the start of my mission, taught me a lot of things. I learned how to be a missionary my first four transfers, but with some companions and difference ideas about the work it was not REALLY put into practice until this past transfer. When Sorella Huber arrived and we got real work done everything literally blew up, in a good way. Sorella Huber and I have been so tired every night (although I still do not sleep often). I am actually really sad to be leaving her. I trust she will be taking very very good care of Torino and the people here already love her. But you get so used to a good companion, you have the best transfer of your mission and then next thing you know the Lord splits you up. Of course I am more than happy to go the will of the Lord, since He always knows better, but we work so well together. I hope I can help all my companions really find the spirit of the work and the rest of my mission will continue as such. I commit to you all to keep working hard. Mom, another roommate prospect...Sorella Huber (we already talked about it last night. She said the Yellow House. Darien will tell you what that is.)

The fresh fall leaves crunching under my feet have been music to my ears. Receiving a smile back is like music to my growing heart. More importantly the General Conference addresses are still playing music to my soul. It is a marvelous blessing to be able to hear the words of the Prophet, apostles and other General Authorities...half a world away. I see that it was well enjoyed by you all. Saturday and Sunday I left conference a new and determined missionary. I wish every weekend was conference weekend!

Everyone here is still progressing and we set another baptismal date. I am so excited for the new sister that is coming in to take my spot and work with these wonders. Funny story, I learned that our dear dear Maria is the aunt of a less active family in our ward. Small world. I will miss the confirmation of Katiuscia on Sunday, and our four baptisms. But I got to take part in a million miracles while here, it is time for someone else to see the magic! Plus, Como will be just as magical.

I have officially turned into, what many would call, a nerd. I like my life more than ever. The other day I sat next to a woman on the tram and started a conversation. She said she was good and I said I was too. Then she looked at me and said "You are good. I can see it. But not just on the outside, I can see it on the inside, in your smile." Probably one of the best compliments you can get. Do you know why I am good, even great!? Because I am living the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I pray morning and night, I read my scriptures daily and I keep my baptismal and temple covenants. I share the gospel with everyone I meet. The way, the right way, the happy way is to living the commandments. Those who do it, understand. Even when the trials come, you have a reason to hope. This is not a rant to show you that I am a good person, because if you know me at all you know I am so far from perfect, but this is even to help myself understand the joy of it all! As Paul Simon said it, "Heaven holds a place for those who pray." Happiness in your heart.

The love just keeps growing.

I love you all con tutto il mio cuore. Until next week, in Como!

Here's to you Mrs. Robinson,
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

post script. I am not the only one who does the potty dance nearly every five minutes here in Italy. There was a man doing it the other day on the tram. Always glad to know I am not alone.

post script 2. I hope you enjoy my last week of Torino in pictures!

English Class in Torino

Olympic Bridge in Torino

Katiuscia's Baptism

Barbara Sets a Baptism Date

cha ching!

2009-09-30T13:46:00.000-07:00

I will start by telling you all this is the only time I get to really think in English (or american as all the Italians call my language). My companion and I have started a forty day fast ... of English. It is going to be a challenge with plenty of temptations to turn stones into bread, ma ce lo faciamo. I am excited about it too, because this will really improve our skills and our work. We spend morning, lunch, and evening in almost near silence as we do not have all the vocabulary to just "tell stories" in Italian. Our work is getting focused, and we feel good.

Italy is wonderful. We have a surprise everyday as to what the weather will be like. We dress for cold weather in the morning, then out pops the sun halfway through your day and you are dragging the coats behind you. It is a little entertaining, because EVERYONE comments on it. They are never satisfied here. It is too hot, too cold, too wet, no rain. I have yet to talk to someone who was happy about the weather, until yesterday. A man, hanging out at the park, loving his life and the sun. Life is so much better when you talk to someone who is happy and has a good attitude. Therefore, something I am learning to do as well.

Our past week was full of magic. (I will compare it to our family song. Starting out with a little "the system is down." The week moved on and we got a "knick knack I want my panty hose back." Then I wanted to "marry it, marry it, marry it." Finally we really got our groove on!)

Sunday was the most magical for me. I love Sunday. My favorite day of the week. (Except when I get to hear from my loved ones.) We got a honk on the way to church from Mister Di Franco after he dropped Maria off, which started it all off with a smile. We walked into church to find an American couple visiting. The wife did not speak Italian and asked if I could translate for her in Relief Society. After a quick five minute meeting with the ward mission leader and church began.

I already knew our lesson was going to be great for relief society since we had received a talk by Elder Richard G. Scott the week before about the temple. Yes, I miss that place. (First request upon my return...family trip to the temple?) Sorella D'Uggento prepared a lesson perfect for me and our investigators. I have never felt the spirit so strong in a relief society meeting here in Italy. Time at the end was left for others to bear testimony of experiences at the temple. It was so special to hear all the experiences of our faithful members. It touched my heart and I know it touched the hearts of our investigators who were wiping their eyes. I was reminded about how grateful I am for the blessings of the temple and that I have an eternal family. In fact, I thought about my sister who will soon start her eternal family and I got really happy. The blessings of the gospel and being obedient are truly far greater than anything else one could ever find.

Then came sacrament meeting. This was also a special meeting for me as I got to see an ex-missionary (the American couple) and the man he baptized 32 years ago bear their testimonies. This missionary only baptized one man on his mission and it was two weeks before he returned home. That did not matter though, I saw the joy of this Italian member and look at "his family" who is happy in the church. I saw the joy the gospel truly does bring. I saw the joy and love one has for "his missionary." I am so grateful to have this privilege to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

The cherry on top of the day was Katiuscia's baptism. Katiuscia made it, was baptized, and bore a beautiful testimony. It was like I watched my little girl grow up. Except for the fact that she is older than me ... Despite a little Italian drama, the evening was perfect. Sorella Huber and I made ten cakes for the celebration and man can those Italians eat! Katiuscia will be confirmed in church after conference weekend. She is still going strong!

My Father in Heaven has blessed me beyond comprehension since I have been here on my mission. I hate to say that time is moving too quickly. We are helping three other investigators work towards their baptismal dates in October and November. Did you know that October begins tomorrow?

I love being a missionary. I can not say it enough.

I love you all.
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

here comes the sun.

2009-09-23T11:22:00.000-07:00

I return to the old tradition of starting you off by reading a quote. A quote that helped me understand an event that happened yesterday.

"The Lord's way is not hard. Life is hard, not the gospel. 'There is opposition in all things,' everywhere, for everyone. Life is hard for all of us, but life is also simple. We have only two choices. We can either follow the Lord and be endowed with His power and have peace, light, strength, knowledge, confidence, love and joy, or we can go some other way, whatever other way, and go it alone -- without His support, without His power, without guidance, in darkness, turmoil, doubt, grief, and despair. And I ask, which way is easier?"

Which way really is easier? Yesterday my companion and I walked into the apartment of an old investigator. Beatrice. I may have mentioned her a couple months ago but since she left on vacation and returned we have yet to see her. I always loved visiting her because she would put a challenge in your face the second you stepped in the door. At the same time it could get frustrating because she has a hard time accepting our responses. Anyway, yesterday we wanted to talk to her about prophets...ancient and living. As if she hardly listened to anything we said, she asked me, "Have you ever doubted that God exists?" I said yes. I said yes, because I did at one point. I never said He does not exist, but I let doubtful thoughts clutter my mind. But then I looked her in the eyes and said (something of the sort), 'God and His son Jesus Christ live and love you. They want only the best for us. We will all have trials in life, there must be opposition in everything.' I began to cry, because I was feeling the truthfulness of what I was saying. I know the best thing I can do is bear testimony, even if our listeners do not recognize immediately. I left her house yesterday afternoon a little upset. But that does not mean we are giving up.

I understand completely when people look at our world today and ask "Why?" I understand that they are confused. I also understand that God loves them just as much as He loves me. I want to help everyone have "the eternal perspective" of life. Rather than dwelling on today's struggles, look at what we will be able to accomplish tomorrow. Even if my struggles in life are but minute compared to what our Savior went through, they are still struggles that have helped me better understand my purpose in life. Because I have one. We have one. The best term I can think of is magical. It is magical.

Maybe I should tell you the news ... We have now followed a series of Maria Di Franco updates. After I wrote you last week a few things have changed. Her husband still loves us, but does not want to learn anything about the gospel. (Keep the faith and prayers). We went to dinner last Thursday again, and right when her Husband walked in she said "do not talk about the church." We said, alright as usual. Not but thirty seconds later she turned around and said "I want to get baptized." Giovanni did not even think twice and said, "yeah!" Part of that response probably came because we were present, but also because he really is a nice guy. Then he made some comment about already being baptized, typical Italian. Maria said right back to him that his baptism was a "terrible error". (I see where some of our problems come in. We will work on the PR of sharing the gospel with her husband.) The end of the story is ... Maria Di Franco is getting baptized. October 31st. If I had my penguin costume I would wear it to the event in honor of Halloween, but mostly Maria. We are excited!

I want to tell you all thank you, thank you for helping me understand, helping me gain a testimony, and always encouraging me. I am glad I understand the Lord's way really is easy. It is time for everyone else to understand. Keep working hard!

do do do dooo,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

a golden bird that flies away.

2009-09-16T04:41:00.001-07:00

The leaves have begun to dance to the song of the wind. Three days have been spent walking through a mist of the most glorious cloud. I think I would love to live in Seattle. I turn into a completely different person when the sky turns grey. And it is not a depressing Riqué, but maybe too crazy to be a missionary Riqué. It is almost as if I were a child again.

The change of the seasons came sooner than I expected, but not too soon to stop and enjoy every moment. Last week we were hot hot hot and humid, this week we are wet. (At least I have some cheetah rain boots to splash puddles with!) We have remained happy all the same. Although my companion and I are going to start looking like we are attending a funeral in our all black get-up, we are excited about the adventure that lies ahead. We are living to the fullest the motto, "if you are not having fun, you are doing something wrong." True about the mission, true about life. Puh-lease, "Adam fell, and men are, that they might have joy."

Remember how I told you I had two marvelous weeks? Well, it was about time the hard time hit. Last week. I wonder if we got too caught up in our pride, thinking "look at us, we are such good missionaries." I will not lie, I thought we were doing pretty good. Relying on the Lord is what we needed to be doing. We can work hard, with the help of the Lord. A good humbling came and I really learned this is not my work, even one bit. I know/knew it was not mine, but every once in a while I guess I need a reminder. I am grateful for these repeats though, something that keeps me in line. We are all imperfect people, so the reminders are greatly necessary.

Last week I ate dinner with my dear friend Maria Di Franco and I will have you know her husband loves us! So much in fact that we have been invited over for dinner tomorrow night. Although Maria does not have permission to get baptized, we are still seeing the miracles that faith brings into our lives. I love being a first hand witness. I do not want to speak too soon, but I firmly believe one day Maria's husband will one day accept the gospel as well. Even if it takes a little time.

I cried on Monday when we were knocking doors. Well, just let my eyes fill with water. It was my turn to knock and as soon as the woman opened the door I was so happy to share with her the message of the restoration, then she stepped out and pointed at me saying "Which happiness. It does not exist. I just lost my grandson this morning." I attempted to explain to her that we have knowledge of the plan of salvation but she shewed us away all too quickly and slammed the door. I stopped and stared for a couple minutes, left a note (which may or may not have been accepted), and continued. At that moment my heart broke for her. I plead with my Father in Heaven that He would help her understand. Sometimes it is incredibly hard watching people you love, yet hardly know, reject the greatest blessing that they could ever experience. I am just glad that there are those who will accept now, and I pray for the others that one day the message of the Restoration of the Church of Jesus Christ will ring true.

Being a missionary is important. More important than anything. Sharing the gospel, being an example of Christ, raising children, obeying the commandments, going to church and so on are all forms of missionary work. We are all enlisted, and happy are we!

I love you, more than you know.
Good luck with this next week and all the crazy you are doing. Keep living righteously and being strong. I appreciate you all for who you are and what you have helped me learn.

Did I tell you I love you?

Ever there,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

i got soul.

2009-09-09T17:13:00.002-07:00

family.

I want to tell you I love you. I want to tell you I miss you. Finally, I want to tell you I am grateful for you, all.

I am glad to hear that, even though two vital parts of the family are missing, you keep moving on with life. Do not get tooooo sad we are not around. We are happy. (Robert I speak for you too.)

I have been thinking much about my work and how I have been as a missionary. At this very moment I hope the rest of my mission goes the way it has been going. Yesterday my companion stood up at zone conference, at the request of President, to bear a testimony. I will echo what she said. "I'm happy." I have never worked so hard as I have the past two weeks, and even though I am dead tired by the end of the day, it is worth it. In fact, I secretly hope Sorella Huber will be my companion for the rest of the mission. We know what we like!

The past two weeks have been very successful weeks and I am feeling satisfied for the work I have been accomplishing (along side my partner.) Although I am happy, I know that I can still do more. I know I can always improve, always work harder. This is a principle I began to understand in my mission prep class at BYU. We were talking about how God has standards for us, that we are striving to reach. But, once you reach them, they go even higher. There is no roof. If we really are working towards exaltation, then there can not be a lid to the jar. We can always be better. I am grateful for this principle and the potential God sees in us. It humbles me a lot because I know I still have so much to work on, but I am also grateful that I can see some of the blessings of even climbing halfway up that ladder God has built for me at this point in my life. I hope that the ladder can keep growing because that would mean I have been striving to align my will with that of my Father in Heaven. At times I find that difficult, being a natural man, but I know it is possible.

Maybe I already shared this: “The gospel of Jesus Christ is the plan by which we can become what children of God are supposed to become. This spotless and perfect state will result from a steady succession of covenants, ordinances, and actions, an accumulation of right choices and from continuing repentance. 'This life is the time for men to prepare to meet God.'”

This is why I love being at the service of my friends her in Italy. One day they will be able to meet our Father in Heaven again, and how much more enjoyable would those moments be if He looks at us with clean countenances.

The latest.
Our dear friend Katy is still progressing and is in such bright spirits. She is ecstatic about the baptism. In fact, sometimes Sorella Huber and I feel it is too good to be true. It is amazing when you find someone so prepared for the gospel that you do not even know what to do. It feels a little like you are living in a dream.

My heart is growing more and more each day. I finally decided I do not want to leave Torino. I will go where ever, but here in Torino I have made some very lasting and even eternal friendships.

I found a spontaneous poet who recited a little treat about my eyes. Hard to not laugh on the spot, I managed to stay composed.

I watched The Restoration a total of five times last week. I could probably recite it to you in Italian.

I made a friend on the bus and managed to miss my stop, 5 times. The most entertaining part about our conversation was that I could no longer explain who I was and what I was doing in English. She was Italian but wanted to speak to me in English and preferred that I did too. Therefore I stumbled over my words more than once forgetting my own native language. Odd how that happens. (Do not worry, I still have a lot of work in the Italian language.)

but i am not a soldier.
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

there is only one thing I can say.

2009-09-02T17:10:00.000-07:00

Something that rings true to me. This week and this moment.
"God does notice us, and he watches over us. But it is usually through another person that he meets our needs. Therefore it is vital that we serve each other." -- President Spencer W. Kimball

Missionaries are in the service of others twenty four/seven. Or at least we all should be. We go around day to day declaring the good word of God and offering service. We talk to those around us and invite them to come unto Christ. We often times will be that person who helps meet the needs of the others. That is, if they take the time to listen and to accept.

I witnessed a miracle or two or three this week. It was because the spirit helps us missionaries recognize those who are ready for our good news.

Maria. A woman in a yellow blouse on the nine o'clock bus home. She was the first person I saw when I got boarded only six stops from my home. I saluted her and took a seat. Thirty seconds passed while the argument went back and forth in my head. "Talk to her. No you are about to get off. Just ask her how she is. She is not Peruvian therefore she will not listen. What is the worst that could happen. She will reject me. Who cares, she is a daughter of God." (or something of the sorts.) Finally I stood up and looked at her again. I started the conversation just asking how she was doing. Eventually it got to the fact that I was a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Maria looked at me and asked, "Why me? There are thirty or forty other people on this bus and you chose me." I was surprised and responded with whatever came to my mouth. In all honesty I do not remember much of the conversation, but I know (possibly for the first time) Maria knew she was something in the eyes of her Heavenly Father. That was what I had to tell her. That her Father in Heaven loved her so much as to design a plan just for her. In the end, she would not accept a visit from us but we left our phone number and address of the chapel. Even if she did not accept me now, I pray that she considers what I told her and recognized who she is. A daughter of a king!

Anna and Eliana Oliveira. Two crazy ladies from Brazil. Nearly two months ago I was in contact with Eliana over the phone. All I knew is that she was baptized in Brazil. She eventually stopped answering our phone calls, until Saturday. The Anziani ran into her mother, a non-member, who said we could come over. Our evening was free so we stopped by. Anna welcomed us in and we began to talk. Eliana came home to a surprise visit from the missionaries. Sunday morning we were at their house at 8:15 to take them to church. This could have been Anna's very first time in an LDS church service and Eliana probably has not been for atleast 18 years (since she has lived in Italy). They loved it and we love them!

Katuscia Lamalfa. She walked into church for the first time last Sunday with one of our members. She set an appointment with us and we went to visit her. She came to church again this past Sunday and we visited Monday night, spur of the moment. I have never seen an individual so excited about what we have. In fact so excited that a baptism date was set and she could not stop smiling. She is recognizing the testimony she once had of our plan and purpose and is so excited about what changes she is already making in her life. At this point in her life, she needed the missionaries and the Gospel. Her member friend was brought into her life so that she could meet the church. The Lord is working through others to reach those who are searching.

I love being a missionary because you get to witness the love, the experience and the change. We must be doing something right to have seen so many miracles and blessings. Of course I see miracles every day through the grace of the Lord. I am grateful for experiences such as the ones above to help me remember my purpose as a missionary. Even my purpose as a member. We are all so important in the lives of others. There are people waiting for us to put the fear behind us and invite them to church. Who knows, they could be a Katy.

Happy September. Crazy. I love you all. I love your letters. I love your love. Thank you for being the wonderful missionaries that you are and keep it up. I promise that the joy you feel when you help someone come to Christ is enough to fill a lifetime. The promises of the Gospel are true and beautiful.

will you stand by me,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

it is a blitzkreig bop.

2009-08-26T19:39:00.003-07:00

It appears to me like we all had a fantastic week. Parents busy and happy, sister engaged and happy, new brother in the family (lucky him!), elder on a mission working hard, brother (as i assume) always being the life of the party! Me: happy as ever and moving onto companion number 5 tomorrow. I have been told I fail to mention information about my wonderful best friends so here is what I can tell you.

My companion Melanie Glass just returned home to Mesa, Arizona and is currently attending Arizona State University (go wildcats!). She and I quickly became the best of friends and I miss her dearly but her replacement is not too shabby... Sorella Lia Cagnacci, right from my city of Genova. I was lucky enough to have a companion so talented and so diligent. I am sad to tell she will be departing tomorrow as I receive another new companion. Sorella Cagnacci (last name means bad dogs, by the way. hah.) will be leaving for the Provo MTC (if all goes according to plan) September 14th to prepare to serve at the Washington DC temple visitors center. If you make a trip up there stop by and tell her and Hermana Smith hello from me!

The replacement...Sorella Huber. I served with her in the MTC for a short 3 weeks and am more than excited to have another companion to learn from. 5 companions 5 transfers, and I love them all. I will tell you what I know about this one. Her and I are in the same film program at BYU, so we already have something in common. I am teaming up with another giant and more than happy to do so. The tall ones serve as good body guards.

Really though, I am as happy as ever! Some would call these girls, rather women, companions. I call them friends. The lord has blessed me with friends that will be eternal.

As I have mentioned we ALL had good weeks. I saw miracles in ever moment. One that brought me to tears, yes I cry as a missionary, as an experience with Giuseppina. Last week I received a call from the Sorelle of Torino 1 who said there was a less active member interested in coming back to Church. I said "yes!" This is the first story I got: Giuseppina called the mission office to find where she could go to church. She explained she had been a member for 23 years but for some reason or another she decided she wanted to live life outside of the church. Two years passed and she realized the she wanted to be happy again. She recognized it was the gospel of Jesus Christ that brought her happiness.

Without a phone number and only an address we took the opportunity to look for her that day after we had a cancellation. After a few questions to odd old men and long walk we found the women's community she was living in. We attempted to ring the citofono (doorbell) with no response. I rang all of them twice. I was determined to find this Giuseppina so I even started yelling her name up to the apartments. Sorella Cagnacci took me by the hand and said, "Sorella Carroll, andiamo." A little sad we walked down the street towards our next appointment. I saw a bus in the distance and thought "should we wait?" Then I decided no, it looks to far. Five seconds later it was right next to us and as we were about to run I said, "no, lets walk." Down the street we went. The first person to approach had a smile from ear to ear, took out her headphones and I thought, "Giuseppina." We could hardly introduce herself before she was explaining she was already a member. I asked if her name was Giuseppina, and she smiled. We had found her! All because we had a cancellation of an appointment and we decided to walk instead of taking the bus. We have met with her two times and she came to church with us on Sunday. Even if it will be a bumpy road back, Giuseppina is making some big changes in her life. I feel so blessed to know a person so strong and so determined.

I learned an important lesson last week. It truly is the Gospel of Jesus Christ that brings the most happiness. Sometimes we like to think otherwise, but true, eternal happiness comes from our Father in Heaven. I have experienced this joy in my life, I see others witness it in theirs. How many times this week have I testified this week to people on the street, bus, or in their homes that there is a Father in Heaven who loves us? Too many to count, but I do not say it because someone told me. I say it because I know it. I feel it. I live it.

Have I told you that I love being a missionary?

Thank you for the love you give me, so I can give more of mine. I love you.

hey ho!
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

we are the same height.

2009-08-19T18:48:00.006-07:00

I have a new companion! An Italian! who is teaching me everything right now. We are sad to say this is only a mini-mission though, therefore she will be parting in three weeks, FOR AMERICA! I teach her English, she teaches me Italian. We are a perfect team, and finally I have a companion about my height.

I am unsure how much better I will be than my brother at this moment, but at least I am writing right? But really, there is not much to say except for that I am still happy and still loving being a missionary. The days are hot and long, our investigators are on vacation, we are talking to just about everyone we see and still seeing our daily miracles. Sometimes I feel like I tell you the same things over and over again...maybe I do, but this work is nothing less than wonderful. I am grateful everyday that I have the opportunity to be here. Even if time does move too quickly, we are making the most of it! I can promise you that much!

May I tell you a story about our friend Maria? I am almost positive I wrote about her a couple weeks ago, but to freshen your memory...Maria is the mother of a member and wants to be baptized but her husband will not give his consent. She has been maintaining her faith and still attends church every Sunday. In fact two Sundays ago we saw a miracle with her husband. He came to pick her up from church and even gave us Sorelle a ride home. And what happened next? Maria called us on Tuesday and mentioned that we could finally come meet her at her house! Over the past three months we have not been permitted to go, and finally her husband softened his heart (just enough). Although it may take some more time, we are seeing the blessings of faith. That really is the answer to it all. Faith.

I will finish here. All is well!
Family I love you.
Even if I miss you, I know I am where I need to be!

That is neat!
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

The Nun we do service with!

Genova seaside cliffs

Sorella Carroll and Sorella Glass hanging ten in Genova

first things first.

2009-08-12T17:42:00.004-07:00

Happy Anniversary Mother and Father. The best years of my life, the only years of my life, are spent with you two. Thank you.

I was thinking about you both a lot yesterday as I read the August Liahona about prayer. President Eyring brought tears to my eyes as I remembered the way my parents have also instructed me. I know that I am here today because of your examples throughout my life. You have taught us well, even when we do not always follow your guidance, we have learned from your testimonies and strength. I know that being worthy members of the church of Jesus Christ has always been on the top of your list. Because of this it is also at the top of mine. Mother and Father, one day I hope to have what you have!

Seconds: Congratulations on the start of school. I hope it is the best year yet!

I have a few stories for the week. Little things that keep my companion and I entertained.

Last Thursday we walked into Sorella Marchis' house to continue teaching the new member lessons. We got past the chit chat and prayer and I decided to just jump right into the lesson. The second sentence I looked at my companion and she asked me if I wanted to teach in Italian. No, I did not realize I was even speaking english to a person who might not even know what 'hello' means. I guess sometimes you do forget where you are and what language you should be speaking. Oops.

Later that evening we went to visit Rosi, who I mentioned in last week's letter. Rosi completely rejected us, which broke our sensitive hearts, but we continued on ... As we were walking to the metro to go visit Epifania my companion and I had a laughing attack. A good ol' man named Ceasar stopped us and thanked us for being happy. He mentioned it is rare to find people happy on the streets. We invited him to come to church and meet with the missionaries and learn more about our happiness...
Saturday night I experienced one of the best bus rides of my life. It started with three teenagers sitting on our bench, where NO ONE ever is. So as I walked up I said "ciao." They all looked at me and mumbled their responses. Then the boy yelled, "perchè mi saluti!?" in almost an angry tone. I responded with, "perchè volevo." Just because I wanted to say hello to them. But it brought some new friendships as we rode the bus together for some times. On the course of the ride a drunk man entered the bus and began to harass one of the girls we had been talking to. They got off the bus at the next stop, which I believe was to avoid the man. Next thing we know the guy is asking my companion to go get drinks with him, although we tried to explain what we do, he did not fully understand until the rather large African pointed to my tag and said "lavorano per Gesu Cristo" about 5 times. Then our big African friend gave the other little friend a slap on the stomach and sent him on his way. We also invited our french speaking African to come to church with us...

Sunday, most magical evening ever. I may or may not have mentioned my favorite wanna-be Arizonans. Paola and Sara. We met them through the Anziani last transfer and have been to dinner twice at their house. They were more fascinated by the fact that we were from Arizona, Paola's dream place. They came to church with us once and then called us after and asked if we could wait until September to come over again. It broke our hearts, but we consented. Until one day we had a bidone (meaning a cancellation when we get there or a no show) and were by their house. We decided just to stop by and say hello. Paola invited us right in and we read a couple verses from the Book of Mormon with her. Sorella Glass left with a new skirt and Sorella Carroll with a porcelain doll she grabbed off the shelf as we walked out the door. And now for a Sunday evening drumroll...They had come to find us after church but we had to leave really quickly and missed them. So we stopped by that evening. Paola is a little crazy, but a crazy that I love. She is alive and ready for something more in her life. We watched a film called Finding Happiness with them. It is a 5 minute film that asks a series of questions about life and our purpose. A good introduction to what us missionaries teach, the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The room was quiet as we asked what their thoughts were. Paola began to cry and recognized the lack of God in her life. She is ready to be happy. Even if it may take a little while, she is recognizing the change that needs to happen. Vacation time hit so Sorella Glass had to bid them the big farewell. And myself just until they get back. Again, Sorella Glass left the house with a gift for going home and Paola gave me a pot. I love her, giving us the things in the house that she does not want any longer. We put them to good use in the missionary apartment!

I wish I could better explain into words all the feelings I have right now. I am just so full of happiness, gratitude and love. The miracles never cease and I can not imagine doing anything else with my life. I am learning to never doubt myself or my Father in Heaven, even in the most unlikely of circumstances.

I love you all.
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

p.s. Surprise/excitement of the week. Sorella Glass makes the trip home to Arizona on Tuesday August 18th and will arrive in Phoenix at 6:49 pm. I heard Darien is coming home that day as well...if you see three Italian missionaries in the Airport I ask you to greet them for me! Especially my very wonderful companion. All this means I will need a companion or somewhere to go until the end of the transfer...so I get a mini-mission Italian who is preparing to leave on September 14th for the Washington DC Temple Visitor's center mission. Her name is Lia Cagnacci and is from Genova. I was present when she received her call and I am so excited for the opportunity to work with her. We will be together until September 7th!

to: you

2009-08-05T17:07:00.005-07:00

Dear Family,
Have I told you I love you? Have I told you how grateful I am for you? Have I mentioned that I have the greatest family on earth? Thank you for all that you are doing at home. You say that me being a missionary blesses you, but surely I believe that your service is blessing me. In fact, sometimes I wonder why I receive so many blessings...it all must be because of you. Of course I am trying to be a faithful servant and I pray everyday that I do something that will help you at home. So, thank you. I love you. I am eternally grateful for the support you give me.

May I tell you a story?

It begins with a woman named Maria.
Eight weeks ago we were assigned to visit two members who no longer come to church. Both of the assignments were of the same last name Di Franco, so automatically I assumed they were mother and daughter. One, Giusi, had recently been coming to church with her son, Andrea, who was being taught by the anziani (and I might add was baptized last week!). We never went to visit Giusi because she was in church every week and the anziani were at their house every week. I did talk to the anziani about the mother who I assumed was Stefania, the other name. The anziani brought it up to Giusi and her mother was in church the next week. For a good two weeks I assumed this to be the other name that we received, except that her name was Maria. (You were waiting till I brought up the first mentioned name.)
While the anziani were teaching Andrea and preparing him for baptism Maria sat in and listened. Like myself, these elders assumed she was a less active member. About four weeks into her attending church we learned that she is not a member after all. As sister missionaries we decided to take this opportunity and see if we could help this woman. We quickly learned that she already had a testimony of Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon and wants to be baptized. Unfortunately she married herself a stubborn Italian man (like most of them are, and I love them for it). He does not want anything to do with the church and will not give Maria permission to be baptized. She is allowed to come to church every week, basta. Dad, you mentioned a woman in church last week with the same problem. I have been thinking and praying about Maria since we discovered her situation. As we teach her once a week for 10 minutes before church I learn more and more about her strength and dedication. I am grateful for women like this, who would do anything to be a member of Christ's only true and living church. I am grateful that I get to help women like this. Although this challenge is a big one, Maria discovered that she needs to just be patient and eventually she will receive the blessings for her diligence and obedience. In fact, that lesson is meant for all of us. Patience.
It is working with people like her that make missionary work worth it. Watching people change their lives for the better has never meant so much to me. I wish you could see the changes I have seen people make.

Can I tell you another story?

Sunday was the usual, leave at 8:00 to get to the bus by 8:15. We have a few different routes we can take, so when I saw another bus ready to pass I grabbed Sorella Glass and we ran to the next stop. It was very spur of the moment, since usually to take this bus we are waiting forever. We exited the bus and walked over to catch the 71. There were two people standing there, both in a cloud of smoke. We stopped for what might have been two seconds when one woman walked up to us. "Are you missionaries?" "Yes we are, have you seen other missionaries like us before?" "Yes, around." "We are representatives for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints." and the conversations continued to how this woman has tried all sorts of religions but none are answering her questions. She would be what we like to call a "golden investigator" saying all the right things and asking all the right questions. Rosi was waiting for a different bus, so we decided to wait with her and travel in her direction. At the end of our conversation (that was 2 stops past where we should have exited(, we set up an appointment to visit her. Although she did not come to church with us, she recognized us that night when we were in centro singing doing our street display. It is funny how a spur of the moment decision to take a bus you have never taken to church leads you to someone who is ready for more truth in her life. I will have to let you know how it progresses.

And a story about me? Missionary work is my life, imagine that. The love grows more every day. I could not imagine being anywhere else.

love: me
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

Zone Leader Anziano White and Sorella Carroll

The Torino Zone

don't tip the boat over!

2009-07-30T15:40:00.000-07:00

Dear Family.

I love that I have a family back home making righteous decisions and using the Lord for direction and guidance. I am excited to hear all about everything that is going on. In fact I am always excited to hear about what you are all doing. Even though you are getting tans right now, I am not quite jealous because I still believe (and know) I am doing the greatest work on earth. I am just still working on being the greatest at it! But I guess you have to work when it comes to being very imperfect. Sai?
As you can see we are a day late in our e-mail. Why? Myldsmail was down and out yesterday. Instead I took time to write handwritten letters and catch up. While I was writing I was thinking about what I have done and will be able to do. With watery eyes I stopped and pondered on the moment I first opened my call letter. (Remember when I could barely talk?) I remember kneeling down in front of the envelope more than once before I opened it. I asked for the confirmation that serving a mission was the right thing and that I would know I was receiving a call from the Lord. A "Dear Sister Carroll" and a few tears later I knew this was it. A week later a confirmation came when I listened to the words of a Prophet. A month later the same feeling as I knelt and prayed for help and forgiveness for my imperfections. The MTC, evening one in Italia, my first baptism, my first transfer, onto companion number three, writing letters to fellow missionaries across the world, and finally this very moment. I am grateful the Lord is giving me constant reminders, through the Holy Ghost, that I am doing the right thing. With my sister, I say I am grateful for the sweet spirit that we feel when we know what we are doing is right. Or when it helps us make a decision that is right in the eyes of the Lord. After all, if there is anything I have learned in my 21.5 years of existence is that the Lord really does know me better than anyone else, so why not accept his guiding influence to direct my life for good?

I began to think about all this as I just learned at the end of this transfer I will send home not 1, not 2, but ALL 3 of my companions. It is hard enough sending one on her way, but knowing that the three people who have helped you grow and learn are all moving onto real life makes the whole end of this magic wonderland real. I am done thinking about it. In fact, I decided no one will know when I go home until the day I stand to bear my last testimony as a missionary.

Alright:
Torino is talented at getting hotter and hotter everyday. More and more people are leaving on vacation. Streets are getting more vacant and I cannot wait. It just means the Lord has chosen for me who I am to talk to, by keeping them here in Torino. I guess we could say he is technically making my job a little easier?

Last Sunday was a miracle. My companion and I have been struggling to commit our investigators to come to church and out of no where 7 people made their appearance. An August miracle!

My hair has faded.
We are making new friends everyday!
I still mess up the language.
Our ward has baptisms the next two weekends!
Our investigator Lucille accepted a baptism date.
Epifania brought her daughter to church last week.

And I have learned how important my work is now, and after the mission. Our transfer focus is working with members, meaning we are going to put in the extra effort to strengthen the relationships. But I have learned what it means to be a member missionary as well. Missionary work would be impossible without the help of you members, so thank you! Keep working.

I am in love with Italy, my mission, and you all!

rock the boat.
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

i'm glad.

2009-07-22T04:52:00.005-07:00

Saturday afternoon my companion and I took a walk through the park on our
attempt to find new friends who are interested in the gospel. We approached the
typical group of Italian men who gave us the typical, "but how many wives do the
Mormons really have?" As usual we never get really far with the old men here in
Italy, they just make you laugh and you get on your way. But, while we were
talking to these 5 men I noticed a girl sitting on a bench watching kids play on
the play ground. I thought, "we should to talk to her." So on we go to try and
teach her about the Book of Mormon.

Claudia is a 17 year old girl with a 13 year old brother and a 2 year old
sister. The kids were spending the morning in the park together. (Immediately I
thought of my siblings and times that we would ride our scooters, bikes,
skateboards, roller blades, etc. to the school play ground. Oh the days!) I
could already tell she was one that loved others by the way she gladly accepted
us. We started explaining a little about the Book of Mormon and how it has
helped us in our lives. She seemed curious and mentioned that she would be
interested in reading. As we continued to converse we approached what she would
be doing for the summer. She started to talk about a community service program
that she participates in. There is a program set up for the "stranieri" (meaning
foreigners) to learn Italian, work on their education, make friends, etc. The
types of things they do remind me a little bit of Mini-Town. Claudia was
actually getting ready to go to the mountains with a few new friends from Iraq,
Peru, Romania and Italy for a summer camp. The reason I relay this whole story,
because at this point in the conversation is when she brought up the race
problems people still have in the world.

She has friends from all over the world, who have different religions, different
color skin, different personalities, we are all just different. Some of her
friends have seen the death of family members in war, which makes her wonder why
she has been so blessed to grow up in a family and country that does not face
those kinds of problems. Once again I thought about my life and wondered the
same thing. I have asked myself before, "What have I done to deserve all this."
But I still take it for granted at times. All I know is that I have been
immensely blessed. Blessed with a family who loves me, and who I get to spend
eternity with. Blessed with friends who have helped me stay strong, who have
served missions and help me be better missionary. Blessed to grow up in a
country of freedom. Blessed to be a member della Chiesa di Gesù Cristo dei Santi
degli Ultimi Giorni. Blessed to be in Italy, speaking Italian, being happy and
loving my life. Blessed to be a missionary. Blessed to know that I have a
Savior, Jesus Christ. Blessed to be living here on this earth.

The more you think about what you have, you realize that every second is a
blessing. It all ties back to who gave us life, Heavenly Father.

I'm glad I met Claudia, who reminded me of what I have. Whatever comes my way I
am trying to look to as being a blessing, because as I said...it is.

I was once again invited to investigate The Church of Jesus Christ by our dear
friend Fratello Spagnuolo. He told me how thankful I will be one day when I
understand. Although I find it humorous that he keeps sharing the gospel with
me, I am grateful that he does it. If an 85 year old, losing his memory can
still remember how important missionary work is, then I can too. I can be the
missionary that makes sure everyone knows where to find the way. I'm glad to
have examples helping me give more.

There seems to be a faint ringing in my neighborhood from the Bruce Springsteen
concert last night. Trash lines the streets and I have seen the shirts already.
If I were anyone else I might have participated in the festivities, but this
morning, instead of echoing the tunes we heard last night blaring from the
stadium, Sorella Glass put on our favorite EFY cd (the only one we have...so
yes, father, you may send ANY (or all) music that you would like. Sorella
Carroll would greatly appreciate church music in the form of CDs). I was
listening to the words of one song in particular as I straightened my hair.
Topic: giving more. Working on giving more of me. I'm glad I have the Book of
Mormon so I can learn how much of Nephi gave of himself. And he did not know
most of the time why. Can I give you an invite? Maybe you are already working on
it, but since everyone has need of this book I invite you to find someone in the
next month to share it with. What is the worst that could happen? Just like
Fratello Spagnuolo told me that one day I would thank him, that person will
thank you.

I'm glad.

I love you.

I thank you.

Happy week!

I hitched my apple wagon,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

Rique finds another penguin friend in Torino (click picture to enlarge)

Fratello Spagnuolo (click picture to enlarge)

Fratello Spagnuolo again (click picture to enlarge)

Good morning son.

2009-07-15T20:06:00.005-07:00

To my dears.

Update of the week: Torino has officially become my home. I will be dwelling in
this city for another six weeks with Sorella Glass (first transfer without a
change! Weird!). I imagine I will be around here for awhile, which pleases me.

Adventure of the week: Mount Torre Pellice. 4:45 wake up call. Ten fun-filled
hours of hiking. Twelve missionaries and a mom in flip flops. Saturday was our
cultural day of the transfer and we took advantage of nature. I have more hunting
stories than I would ever want. I laughed more than you would think possible.
And I nearly lost my life from going too crazy. I am told, as people went back to
look at the area where I rolled over the edge, that had I not grabbed the branch
that I did it would have been the end. I believe I was fine all along,
especially since my companion and I were laughing before, during and after the
fall. I did learn to calm down, at least. The hike was a success and we made it
to the top, where once stood President Lorenzo Snow. We stood on dedicated
ground, where a prayer was said beginning the mission work in...Switzerland.
Lorenzo Snow also dedicated the land of Italy during his mission in Europe, so
it is all the same right? All I know is it was the longest day of fun I have had
in a long time.

Feelings of the week: The hike starts off our next transfer with a bang. We will
be receiving a new district leader, and Sorella Glass and I are ready to find
new investigators. (fresh and so clean clean.) New investigators because lately
our work has gone down hill, but it is already on its way up. I only have until
August 18th to work with Sorella Glass so we are going to make this short month
the best. Torino is going to turn upside down. Sai?

Spiritual thought of the week: Lately, being stuck in a pattern has had a
strange effect on me. I have been thinking a lot about who I am and who I want to
become. When my companion told me about a conference talk she recently read, I
decided this is what I need to read. Elder Dallin H. Oaks strikes again. In
October 2000, Elder Oaks left us with the “challenge to become”. Now in July
2009 I am taking him up on the offer. So here I go. Sometimes we find it easy to
just go through the actions because we are told or we know they are right. But
it is important to be converted in the process. Elder Oaks says it better, “It
is not enough for anyone just to go through the motions. The commandments,
ordinances, and covenants of the Gospel are not a list of deposits required to
be made in some heavenly account. The gospel of Jesus Christ is a plan that
shows us how to become what our Heavenly Father desires us to become.”
That is the whole purpose of life right? To gain everything our Father in Heaven
has. So it requires a little bit of extra effort on my part. I do it, to become
it. I am so grateful for the daily guidance that I receive. As I make new goals for
a new transfer I hope that I can become more of the missionary that my Heavenly
Father needs me to be.

Finally, mistake of the week: Mom, I remember I promised you I would not do
anything insane (i.e. chop off my hair) on my mission, but I broke a promise. A
promise that is soon to be unbroken, it is just a matter of when. No, I did not
exactly give myself a pixie cut (or even cut my hair for that matter) but I did
do something a little crazy. I mention mistake of the week because it was
definitely a mistake. Recently I have had two men, men mind you, ask me why my
hair is two different colors. That is my fault since I have not found time to
spend a couple hours in a salon getting my hair done. I found it humorous that
the male gender pointed it out to me first, so my companion and I decided to
finish the comments and do something about it. My hair is no longer blonde. But
will be shortly. We are resting at a light shade of auburn brown. Mother I
needed to take your advice from the beginning. I should always listen from the
beginning, but you have known me my whole life and for some reason I go off on my
own, make the mistake and then learn. Apologies.

Love of the week: My mission. (period). The adventure of a lifetime. Thank you
for the support, love, letters, pictures, prayers, joy, etc. that you have given
me! I am thankful everyday for a family that I love and get to spend eternity
with.

I am a bird,
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll.

The Torino Skyline

Mole Antonelliana and Binoculars

The hike and auburn hair

fun, fun, fun.

2009-07-08T21:57:00.002-07:00

This week.
This week I think I want to tell you about why I love Italy. Love being a missionary. Love knowing I am a daughter of God.

I started this transfer 5 weeks ago with four days in Genova. I was separated from my real companion and when I finally got home I realized how much I missed Torino. Evidence that God does help us love everywhere we serve. It was an interesting week but a good start to a great transfer.

As Sorella Glass and I got used to each other I got us lost more than once. We have been on a hunt with our Relief Society President looking for our less-active members. Since phone numbers are old it has become a door to door adventure.

Part of the adventure happens when you get on the bus going to the next visit and a man stands up, walks over to you, grabs your hand and kisses it. It is even more awkward when you run into him again a few weeks later and you had rejected him when he tried to kiss you on the cheek...

I never told you that I saw my new best friend while I was riding the bus. She was on the street, headphones in and completely into what she was doing. I am glad to know I am not the only crazy who dances down the street. She even pulled out the lasso move, I do that almost every day now. Making missionary work that much more enjoyable. I love when people are driving down the road blasting a little Lou Bega. Or when an old man comes to the bus stop and sets his large bag of milk on the ground like he is waiting for the bus too. So you offer your seat and he accepts. He begins to relay how there is a great milk sale going on around the corner. Then he starts singing about the sun to your companion and looks at you and tells you need more sun. (What can you do as a missionary...). He stops singing to point out two dogs coming down the street and puts his foot out when they pass as if to trip them. He tells you all about his eye operations, half of which is in french. Finally the bus arrives and you ask if he is taking the same bus (mind you, it was the only bus that stops there) and he says "No, I live right around the corner" with a smile and starts on his way. Thank you for the company sir!

Oh, by the way...the Sorelle do not have to wear nylons in the summer anymore! Great news from President's Wife!

Another reason I love the above stated, is because I get the opportunity to work with such great missionaries, sisters and elders. My companion included!

Finally, Sorella Carroll has never laughed so much as she has in the past 5 weeks. Sorella Glass and I have been visiting a Sorella Spagnuolo and her father every week. Fratello Spagnuolo is a hoot and a half. He is 85 years old and my favorite. One visit we asked him to give the closing prayer, which may or may not have gone on for 20 minutes. As we were leaving he yelled "Thank you for the prayer" as we were already halfway down the stairs. Another time we helped Sorella Spagnuolo with the grocery shopping and came home to a sleeping Fratello on the balcony with the water in the sink running into an over-flowing cup. He woke up just in time for gelato. This same man offered me a Book of Mormon and told me "one day when we are in heaven you will thank me". Although he is a little pazz, I am grateful for his happy heart and kindness towards me. He has been a little burden lifter giving Sorella Glass and I another something to get excited about. I always hope he answers the phone when I call!

Since the list goes on and on and on I will stop boring you here and maybe I can come up with something good for next week. But one thing I have learned that helps me keep the love is making the choice. It all depends on a choices that I make. Namely, waking up in the morning with a good attitude. That makes all the difference.

I read a talk by President James E. Faust the other day that is another reminder of what I need to be doing. Entitled "Choices" I really learned that what I choose to do now will determine my future, and not only in this life.

"Some of our important choices have a timeline. If we delay a decision, the opportunity is gone forever. Sometimes our doubts keep us from making a choice that involves change. Thus an opportunity may be missed. As someone once said, 'When you have to make a choice and don't make it, that in itself is a choice.'"

This week I choose to keep going and keep trying to improve myself. I think for the first time in my life I am realizing how important my decisions are. I have heard for quite some time "decisions determine destiny," but now as I am watching others make some of the most important decisions I realize they really do determine everything to follow.

I was able to watch another baptism this past weekend. It was a beautiful and sweet experience watching Epifania from my position at the piano as she cried while singing "Come Follow Me." After a year of studying and attending church she finally overcame and made the decision that is the most important, to follow Christ. This is why I love being a missionary. I love to see people change their lives to give what they have back to God. I love seeing the joy that the Gospel brings. I love that I have this eternal happiness, but I love even more that I can share it with the world! It is impossible to love something so much and not share it with everyone you know.
We all have choices to make! So lets make them.

take the t-bird away,
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

p.s. I am a slacker with the photographs, I know. I promise to try and get better. I keep forgetting my camera.

how does it feel?

2009-07-01T19:11:00.002-07:00

I just looked down at my missionary tag. Nice and black above my heart. Representing what I am doing and who I am doing it for. Yesterday I sat across from my President, who I have so much respect for, in an interview. He helped me realize the things I am doing and accomplishing, looking back I suppose I have seen a Rique grow into more of a Sorella. I, of course, have much more progress to make...but I am grateful for all the experiences I have had and those to come to help me become a better servant of our Savior.

This morning in my scripture study I opened up to the Bible Dictionary and read about grace. I was lead through a chain of scriptures that punched me in the heart. Leading me to really understand what the power of grace is. "It is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do." But not until we do all that we can possibly do. So when it comes to being lazy, you just can not. My best may not be your best, but as long as I give mine then the Grace of Christ will come into play. I thank my Heavenly Father everyday for giving me the daily help that I receive. I am a witness of His miracles, everyday.

One miracle I would like to share has to do with last week. Before our zone meeting we were given the challenge to set up 5 appointments with members present. This is our standard of excellence and my Sorella and I were already working on it. As we put forth all our effort to get faithful members' help we were able to set up all 5. To our disappointment all 5 were canceled by investigators. In fact, on Saturday alone we had 3 appointments cancel in a row. Like dominoes. Since we were close to our apartment we went up stairs not knowing what to do with our last 2 hours of the day. You know those moments when you feel like there is no point to anything you do, so why even try? That was how we were feeling. Instead I went into our room by myself and got down on my knees and said a prayer. A prayer asking for the faith to keep going. As soon as I got up we were out the door on our way to Olympic Park. We placed two Books of Mormon, taught a lesson, and found two new investigators. All because we did not give up, and because Heavenly Father gave us the will and strength to keep going.

The second miracle I saw was Sunday after church. I may have told you about Epifania, but she is a dear little Peruvian lady who has been working with missionaries for over a year. With baptism dates come and gone it almost seemed unlikely she would ever fully commit. Two weeks ago Sorella Glass and I decided to give her some space and let her ponder on her own. Apparently she did just that. She showed up to church and immediately following Sacrament meeting went into Bishop's office. I heard a little commotion and walked outside to see the Anziani, a few members and Epifania. I walked up to Epifania who was standing by herself and asked her what had happened. She had watery eyes, then I started to cry because I already knew. She set her baptism date for none other than Independence Day! Saturday July 4th! She does not know everything, like all of us, but she is taking that step of faith and giving what she has to the Lord. The best decision anyone could ever make. I am beyond excited for this wonderful woman and feel so blessed to have been able to work with her for the past 10 weeks. The Lord works miracles, He does not let you down!

Family you are all over the place. You are crazy, wild, the best! Thank you for sharing all your experiences and adventures with me. I love hearing about the little things. Thank you for being the family that you are. There is another miracle of the Lord. We were brought together for a reason and I could not imagine my life without your love. Thank you for being so supportive of not only me, but all of my friends. I love you for your love.

I will keep working hard! I thank you for your prayers.

Happy fireworks!

to be on your own,
your daughter, your sister, your friend.
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

p.s. Mom and Dad I remember you mentioning something about a hot Sunday in church while in Italy...If only Italians knew air conditioning existed. Hot houses, hot churches, hot outside. Welcome to July!

ay-oh ay-oh

2009-06-24T18:37:00.002-07:00

This week words are not really coming to what I would like to tell you.
Sometimes it seems this way, so much going through your head you can't pin point
a certain thought.

This morning as I was studying I read the hymn I Stand All Amazed, and wanted to
share with you a verse that struck me. Like Robert, I too stand all amazed. "I
tremble to know that for me He was crucified; that for me a sinner, He suffered, He bled and died."

My testimony is strengthened every time I remember what Jesus Christ has
overcome so that you and I can be happy. This is what I will continue to share
so that we can all find the happiness. The joy. The love. The life!

I would like to share with you a little about the people I work with. They are
so much a part of my life, that is seems important for you to know them too. I
was reviewing my past planners and I realized how much we focus everything on
our investigators. We make plans a week in advance, we pray, we focus all of our
thoughts on what we can do to help them, we study for them. My life right now is
centered on helping these special people make the decision to change their lives
and repent. Not repent because they are terrible sinners, but repent because we
are all imperfect. You, me, your neighbor, your friend, all of us have yet to
reach that stage of perfection...but with the help of Jesus Christ we can walk
along the straight and narrow and eventually reach exaltation.

Lucille Guzman. A 19 year old girl from Paraguay who is catholic but has a
desire to find a testimony of the Book of Mormon. Last week she informed us she
had quit smoking and drinking. At that point we had yet to teach her the Word of
Wisdom, but decided to make the decision on her own because she had read about
the commandment previously. We were able to read through Doctrine and Covenants
89 with her and explain the blessings and promises that are associated with
obedience to the commandments. Lucille has made the commitment and has found
more joy in her life. I am grateful for her example, dedication and diligence is
all it takes to be obedient. Then you receive the blessings.

Maurizia Miranda. A 41 year old flower shop owner who has already read the entire
Book of Mormon and is currently working on the Bible. Maurizia knows the entire
story of Joseph Smith and believes it to be true. In the coming week we are
inviting her to be baptized and as she comes to church and continues to read and
pray I know that she will make the decision to change her life.

Both of these women hold special places in my heart. Being able to think, pray,
talk with, teach, and whatever else we do is a privilege. This week I have seen
a change with both and I can feel the love the our father in heaven has for
them. It is such a blessing to see someone make a change for the better. As we
turn to the Lord our happiness radiates. Others notice. Life becomes peaceful.
We know where we are going and why!

I would like to leave you with my testimony that the Lord really does listen. He
knows the desires of my heart. He knows what I need. He is ready to give it to
me too. All I have to do is ask for the guidance. We will always receive answers
to our prayers, sometimes we just have to patient. Day after day I find an
answer, that sometimes I do not even know I am looking for. Proving that He
knows me better than anyone. Answers can come through various mediums, whether
it be through someone else, scriptures, thoughts, even looking out the window
down the street. The Lord speaks to us in different ways, it does not matter
how. I know that He wants to help me.

Tonight I will teach a woman names Giusi who said she wants the happiness I
have. I am going to tell you the same thing I will tell her. You can have it, it
just takes the effort on your part and you will find. Turn to the Lord and he
will make you clean. For us as sinners, He suffered, He bled and died. Keep
turning to the Lord and making the change.

My heart is full of gratitude. I appreciate the guidance I have received from
you family and from my Heavenly Father. I am happier than ever being a
missionary. I had the opportunity to remind myself why I am doing this when I
was asked to bear my testimony at zone conference. My testimony is reconfirmed.

Thank you times a million.

walk like an egyptian,
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

i saw the sign.

2009-06-17T18:41:00.000-07:00

"As we rely on the atonement of Jesus Christ, He can help us endure our trials,
sicknesses, and pain. We can be filled with joy, peace, and consolation. All
that is unfair about life can be made right through the atonement of Jesus
Christ. In paying the penalty for our sins, Jesus Christ did not, however,
eliminate our personal responsibility. We must show that we accept Him and that
we will follow His commandments. Only through the gift of the atonement can we
return to live with God."

Today I am grateful for the testimony of my brother. That he knows what he is
supposed to be doing, and that is missionary work. I actually had a similar
experience this week visiting with someone that I have told you all about.
Remember our glorious prayer circle? We finally made it back to visit them. I
have nicknamed them M.A.R.G. for time purposes. I wish I had time to explain the
whole visit, but let us just say that we left unsatisfied. Rita kept saying, "mi
dispiace per loro." (I am displeased for them, more or less.) In our prayer
circle everyone offered a prayer. They all prayed for us to find the truth (or
hinting at it) while we prayed for all of us to know the truth. How important is
it for us to know the truth? Thank you Robert, you said it all. Who better to
ask than the Father of all?

That night when we returned home I decided to just open my scriptures and read.
I opened up to Doctrine and Covenants section 14 and began to read. Immediately
I began to feel the spirit. I began to feel a stronger testimony grow inside of
me of this work. Right then I knew I was doing the right thing, even though
there are thousands of people out there who think I do not know what I am doing.
Frederique Stone Carroll, excuse me SORELLA Frederique Stone Carroll knows what
she is doing. I am a disciple of Jesus Christ.

"A great and marvelous work is about to come forth unto the children of men.
Behold, I am God; give heed to my word [...] the field is white already to
harvest [...] Yea, whosoever will thrust in his sickle and reap, the same is
called of God. Therefore, if you will ask of me you shall receive; if you will
knock it shall be opened unto you. Seek to bring forth and establish my Zion.
Keep my commandments in all things. And, If you keep my commandments and endure
to the end you shall have eternal life, which gift is the greatest of all the
gifts of God. And it shall come to pass, that if you shall ask the Father in my
name, in faith believing, you shall receive the Holy Ghost, which giveth
utterance, that you may stand as a witness of the things of which you shall both
hear and see [...]"

This is what I read. I received the reassurance that I have the truth. I am
bringing the world His truth!

I have been nothing but blessed in the work and every day my knowledge grows. In
all the lessons I taught the past week, I again feel like they were meant for
me. I learned even more the importance of being obedient. What would a life be
without obedience anyway? Of course my imperfections are always there...but if
we ask, we have the help. We may not know all the thoughts of God, but we do
know that he has commanded us to follow the example of Christ. Making the
decision to follow commandments may not be easy, but would it make it easy if
you knew you would receive blessings? I have a question for everyone today.
Actually a request. I am interested in hearing experiences of when you were
obedient to a commandment and have seen the blessings. Whether or not you have
recognized the blessings yet, obedience is key to our eternal salvation. Elder
Jeffrey R. Holland said it perfectly, "Some blessings come soon, some come late,
and some don't come until heaven; but for those who embrace the Gospel of Jesus
Christ, THEY COME." I know they will come. That is why I strive my hardest to do
even the little things...going to bed on time, waking up on time, not playing
with children, not crossing the street on red, etc. (Honestly I can not think of
anything else because they are not even rules anymore, they are guidelines that
help the work progress. Funny how your attitude can change with the help of the
Lord.) So in the end, if you have time would you want to share a little
experience you have had in obeying the commandments of God? (examples: tithing
and offerings, word of wisdom, saying your prayers, honoring your parents, etc.)
Thank you for your inspiration and examples!

I love you. I am grateful for that which you have given me. Thank you for the
examples you have set so that I have something to live up to. I was asked this
week what my motivation was for being here on a mission. Of course the Lord, but
besides Him, you were my response. Family thank you for being my inspiration, my
motivation, everything.

opened up,
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

My second district.
Sorella Smith (went to Milano), Sorella Carroll, Anziano Lulo (still zone
leader!), Anziano Sabey (finished the mission, woo!), Anziano Buckway (still
district leader!), Anziano Beacham (went elsewhere! I forget where).

if i had the chance.

2009-06-10T19:43:00.005-07:00

In the words of some wise orphans..."It is what you wear from ear to ear and not
from head to toe that matters. You are never fully dressed without a smile."

Are you ready for the most exciting news of your life? Well, of today at least.
Guess where I am!? If you said home you would be partially correct. I feel like
I am home...I am back in Genova! (I will always consider this beautiful city one
of my homes in Italy, coupled with Siena.) Sadly I am only here for a short
visit, but a great visit it has been.

I picked up a new companion and brought her to Torino with me last thursday,
then I left her in the dust Monday evening to go to Genova and do an exchange
with my trainer! Woo hoo. A surprise! and a struggle:( since I am in charge of
teaching my companion about our area, and I am not even with her the first week.
Crazy. An adventure for both of us. With the short four days I was able to spend
with her I can tell you that these next two transfers are going to be
incredible! Plenty of work to be done, and more fun to be had. I will have to
give you all the updates next week of us getting lost together, me falling off
curbs, meeting new people, sharing the love of the Lord!

Today I am fully dressed. Thank goodness. I want to share something I have
learned in the past few weeks. Something that I hope to never forget. Something
that has helped me be fully dressed every day all day. This something is prayer.
I was taught to pray since practically birth, and I am still learning how to do
it correctly. Apparently in 21.5 years you can not learn everything. I am
learning every day. In fact today, preparation day, in Genova was another
learning day. Instead of taking a full preparation day Sorella Rasmussen and I
decided to schedule appointments. What better thing to prepare yourself for the
week than spreading the word? We decided to go visit Adriana Piccareta. To give
you a little refresher this is the woman we would grocery shop for every week.
This woman holds a very special place in my heart. I felt so special when she
waited at the window watching our hike up the hill and scurried to the front
door to greet me when we arrived. I have never been kissed so many times on my
cheeks, those wiskers, too, hold the special place. We decided to read a small
section of the newest Liahona with Adriana and talk about prayer. As I started
to speak to her and talk about my experience with prayer she took over and bore
her testimony. It could not have been better. A simple sincere testimony is all
it takes to pierce your soul. There are times in our lives when the temptor
somes, the storms rage, and there seems like nothing can take it away. I asked
Adriana "What helps us rise above these difficulties, these storms?" Without
doubt or hesitation she announced "la fede (faith) e la preghiera (and prayer)."
The answer I was looking for was prayer, but then I thought for a second and
asked myself "What is a prayer without faith?" Nothing. Absolutely nothing. Some
words or thoughts that hit the ceiling and then scatter all over the floor. It
takes the prayer of faith to rise above the storm into the sun light. The prayer
of faith that relieves your pains and heartaches, because you know someone is
right at your side. He is walking with you, carrying you at times, and never
will He stop encouraging you. When you feel abandoned, it is NOT because He left
you but because you probably left Him.

A story I read this morning in my daily Book of Mormon study has served as a
guide and perfect start to the day's lessons. The story of the Brother of Jared
in Ether chapter three teaches one about the power of faith. I encourage you to
read this chapter, and we can work together in having the same amount of faith
that our great friend has. Eventually we will "[have] faith no longer, for [we
will] know, nothing doubting." How great will it be.

There is something else I have learned in these past two weeks that have served
as a strength to my testimony. I open my Book of Mormon every morning and it
directs my day. These are my favorite verses this week...
"For a small moment have I forsaken thee, but with great mercies will I gather
thee. In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment, but with EVERLASTING
kindness I will have mercy on thee, saith the Lord thy Redeemer[...]
For the mountains shall depart and the hills be removed, but my kindness shall
not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith
the Lord that hath mercy on thee."
--3 Nephi 22:7-8, 10

Family, friends, loved ones, i miei cari...I can not say it enough. There is
nothing that has changed my life more than serving the Lord. I am imperfect, but
He makes up for those imperfections and helps me all the way. Sometimes (in fact
all of the time) I feel like I am being helped more than I am helping. His
kindness will not depart. Everyday I get closer and closer to the one who loves
me the most. I know that all the help and miracles in the world are only a
prayer away. The sun will come out today (and tomorrow) if we all recognize this
great power!

Let us see how many scriptures I can leave you with today...
"O Lord, thou hast said that we must be encompassed about by the floods, Now
behold, O Lord, and so not be angry with thy servant because of his weakness
before thee; for we know that thou art holy and dwellest in the heavens, and
that we are unworthy before thee; because of the fall our natures have become
evil continually; nevertheless, O Lord, thou hast given us a commandment that we
must call upon thee, that from thee we may receive according to our desires."

ask the world to dance,
Sorella Frederique Stone.

post script. I become legal in Italy tomorrow...so long America!

Dear Adriana

Port of Genova

gratitude.

2009-06-03T19:42:00.001-07:00

It is the end of the transfer today and tomorrow I will be bringing a new companion to Torino. I will be here in Torino for quite a bit more time since my new companion Sorella Glass is leaving either this transfer or the next. I am looking forward to spending some time in this city and really getting to know the ins and outs. I am getting to know ward members better and am having a great time with all the missionaries, investigators, and members. In fact, this transfer we will be doing a lot of finding work to get new investigators. Most of ours have slowed down on us, so we are trying to improve the work and bring salvation for people! Yeah! We need lots of prayers, even though I know you pray all the time for me. Thank you.

Mom and dad, I could not do this with out you. My heart is full of thanks for your guidance and listening to the spirit. Thank you for your testimonies! I am indebted to you!

I hope this week is WONDERFUL! Happy Birthday Father. Pittsburgh should be fun and I am glad you get to spend some quality time together!

Love love love,
Your daughter.

there is love.

2009-05-27T17:29:00.001-07:00

"Even if you cannot always see that silver lining on your clouds, God can, for He is the very source of the light that you seek. He does love you, and he knows your fears. He hears your prayers. He is your Heavenly Father and surely He matches with His own the tears His children shed." --Elder Jeffrey R. Holland

There is nothing more important in my life at this moment. Knowing that there is someone who understands. Someone who loves with patience, grace and mercy. My inevitable imperfections are still loved. Lucky me. What more need have we to do the same if we receive that. Yes I am learning how important it is to love every imperfection in every person. I know we all want the best for those we love, but you have to let them mess up so they can learn. We have agency for that purpose. So when I want to take away someone's freedom to choose and make that decision for them self I have to remind myself the whole purpose of life. John 3:16-17.

As time is short this week, family, I will be leaving you there. I love you. I pray for you, all of you. I could not be more grateful to have a family that has taught me so much. I know our love is eternal, and for that I am happy.

As we say,
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

going through the desert.

2009-05-20T16:01:00.003-07:00

Carissma Famiglia,

I love you.

All I want to say is this: “And thus we see the great call of diligence of men to labor in the vineyards of the Lord; and thus we see the great reason of sorrow, and also of rejoicing—sorrow because of death and destruction among men, and joy because of the light of Christ unto life.” - -Alma (Alma 28 14

This week my hero is Alma, Alma the younger to be specific. As I read in the Book of Mormon everyday I learn something incredible. I am currently in the Alma chapters and I have the hardest time putting the book down. I am learning how important my work is. I watch Alma put forth everything he has, and I think...“can I not do the same?” I absolutely can. I see everyday the need for the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the world, and I rejoice with Alma in the work. Usually I wake up thinking, “It is already time?” But I force into my head that I only have 18 months, 4 of which are gone. Thank you to Alma for he “could not rest” neither can I. In all reality no one can. How short is our time and how much need does everyone have hear this GLORIOUS GOOD NEWS?

Because I know dad posts my letters on the blog I have something to say to the world...(or maybe to the two people who take a gander at it):
Wake-up. Look at the world around you. With Alma, I say “all things denote there is a God; yea, even the earth, and all things that are upon the face of it, yea, and its motion, yea, and also all the planets which move in their regular form do witness that there is a Supreme Creator.” (Alma 30:44). Sometimes I find myself getting frustrated when people do not believe in God, but then I remember that is my job to help them. I can say that I absolutely know that we have a loving Heavenly Father. He is the easiest person to communicate with, and it costs nothing. I even have to pay to send e-mail. He loves you just as much as he loves me, and I know he loves me quite a bit. I have felt His love for others and I have been able to see people the way He sees them, there is no doubt in my mind that He is very very aware of everyone of His children.

Yesterday I had interviews with my mission president. How did president and the zone leaders know what to say? How did they know that was everything I was searching for the past two weeks? How? Because God is mindful of my needs, and just as much yours. The promises from our Father in Heaven are miraculous. I encourage you to seek them out and receive the incredible blessings that are there if you just ask.

Enough of Sorella Carroll.

This past week Sorella Smith and Sorella Carroll were at it. We have really been trying to be the picture perfect “Preach My Gospel” missionaries.

You see someone in need, you offer to help. (Which reminds me...I offered to help a man with his grocery bags and he thought I asked for one of his lemons. I laughed and offered again, and he said he was fine but if I wanted a lemon I was more than welcome. What a kind man.)

You see someone who is dragging their feet, you give them a lift (even if it is a “good day!” or a smile. We were able to get an appointment out of doing that...you never know who you can share the gospel with especially when you think you are just trying to get to your next appointment).

You try and take every chance you have to share the gospel. (For example, we are walking to our investigator Epifana's apartment and notice an old lady sitting at her window crying asking what day it is. We stop to remind her it is Sunday and she keeps crying. Then I reach up to grab her hand and she just keeps crying. Then we explain we have something that will bless her life and she invites us to come back whenever we want. Rosa.)

You try not to be pushy, but you make sure everyone knows what you are here for. (Oops, I accidentally walked into someones house thinking it was an aparment complex. The lady was coming to the door, and had to tell me to get back outside and tell her who I was from the street. I was going for boldness I guess?)

I am far from perfect, but I can tell you that efforts and paying off. The Lord is blessing us. I see miracles daily. I love being a missionary. Thank you!

on a horse with no name,
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

Last day in Genova before transfers (older picture)

hooray, hooray.

2009-05-13T20:12:00.002-07:00

The weekly Sorella Carroll quote: (these are usually my self motivators of the week, so this is why I share them with you.) “Our challenges, including those we create by our own decisions, are part of our test in mortality [...] Your situation is not beyond reach of our Savior. Through Him, every struggle can be for our experience and good. Each temptation we overcome is to strengthen us, not destroy us. The Lord will never allow us to suffer beyond what we can endure.” --Elder Robert Hales

Story of the best week ever: It starts with zone conference. Thursday morning my companion and I woke up early in order to make ourselves presentable for our mission president and his wife. We try to look presentable every day, but when you are going to see your president you put in the extra effort. Then to the train through conference and a return ticket home. Conference was everything that Sorella Carroll and Frederique needed to hear. A good reminder of my purpose and what I can do better to help people was everything I needed. I am one grateful missionary for our President Dunaway and his guidance to each of us missionaries in northern Italy. Friday and Saturday flew by and before I knew it I was done with the phone call to my family. It is funny how much you appreciate to hear the voices of your loved ones. Although I am not home sick, I do miss you. Thank you for encouragement, love, happiness. What a wonderful day to celebrate a mother! A mother who has given me everything. Thank you mother. Thank you grandmother, this is your holiday too! I love the mothers in my life and appreciate all that they have helped me with. Monday came and went with no appointments but plenty of finding work. In our district meeting we set district goals (which I am pleased to announce Sorella Smith and I have already begun to accomplish!).

Tuesday is where the real story begins...

We had planned everything down to the half hour hoping that all would go accordingly. We had four lessons planned with inspired back-up plans. We taught one of my favorites, Beatrice [who is African and married to an Italian with two sons, Elliot (6) and Ariel (5 months)]. We teach her in English and she had a great break-through! She has so much faith and bore testimony so strongly yesterday. We know that it will be a slower process with her as she has many questions, but I learn from her faith every time I see her! As usual, lunch and language. We received a cancellation for one of our lessons but stuck with our back-up plan which was to visit the same area but talk to the university kids instead. Can you say nervous? My peers are the hardest for me to talk to, but Sorella Smith and I worked together and made plans to do University contacting every few days. By the end of the transfer our fears will be out the window! You could call this successful as we were able to break the ice with a few students. [How do you help youth/young adults be more interested in religion?]

Our next lesson was with a Sorella Giuliano. We have been working with numerous members encouraging them to invite non-members to our stake conference. With a General Authority coming, this will be a big deal...and apparently the area authorities are expecting big things out of us missionaries. So we are working. Sorella Giuliano gave us four referrals all of which we attempted to contact. We will be returning to find them on a later date. To fill our time before our next appointment we had planned to do casa in Sorella Giuliano's area. [Casa means knocking doors. This is one of the funniest because of the excuses people give. Or they will come to the peep-hole, look through, and say nothing. You usually can either hear the movement of the peep-hole or actually see them. I say hello or wave at them to let them know we know. Usually ends up unsuccessful. I always want to put my face in the hole while they are looking through...]

One of our last knocks was opened by Giuseppe. We began to explain who we are and we had a quick message about Jesus Christ to share if they were interested. Giuseppe said, “we were praying.” What do you say to that? Sorry for interrupting? Rita was standing right behind her husband and invited us in right as Giuseppe was trying to shoo us away. We entered the house. WE GOT IN A HOUSE, MY FIRST HOUSE! We found Mariana and Antonio sitting at the table. They found us chairs and we all joined in discussion in the little kitchen. Antonio is a fireball, Mariana is amazed we use the same bible as them, Rita could see everything on my face, Giuseppe knew everything about us Mormons. Every time Antonio went off, Rita would interrupt him and let me say something. One time I started to feel tears coming on, but I did not want them. I stopped to clear my throat and Giuseppe said I could sing if I wanted. I almost did, but I did not want to ruin my testimony by making fun. My companion explained everything in the space of 10 minutes, nearly impossible...she rocked the house. We made a return appointment! As we were getting up to leave Rita invited us to pray with them. We thought hey, we pray, we can pray with you. We sat back down and they all stood up. Confused looks were exchanged especially after Giuseppe mentioned to us that we all say a few words. Sorella Smith and I bowed our heads, folded our arms and closed our eyes. The next ten minutes were spent in prayer. Each of us prayed, while all but companion and I threw in some Hallelujahs, amens, and uh-huhs. It actually was a very interesting/cool experience to pray with someone in this manner. I am very excited to return to the family and learn of their faith and share ours.

Finally, our last lesson of the day. Epifana. Our dear Peruvian who is just the most precious lady. The principle of obedience was our topic, and everytime I talk about this I realize more and more the great importance obedience has in my life. I had the special privilege to talk to Epifana and get to know her a little better while Sorella Smith helped her daughter with a little bit of English. Epifana bore testimony of the great change she has noticed in her life since being associated with the church. She lost a daughter a few years back and I talked a little about the plan of salvation and how my family has applied that in our lives. I know that because my mother and father remained strong in the church working together we have seen the plan of salvation take effect. I just bore testimony of how much the Gospel really does bless families, and that she has already seen some of the blessings. She is currently praying for her baptismal date that we invited on June 12th. I am so grateful for her sweet testimony and especially that private moment we had to talk. I love her and everyone I work with. There is nothing in life more satisfying than this.

Let us work together to help people find what they do not even know they are looking for!

the silver lining,
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

sitting on your doorstep.

2009-05-06T17:57:00.002-07:00

"Time and again over your life, the Lord has been giving you the experiences to build strength, courage, and determination. He knew how much you would need that to serve Him." -- President Eyring

"He knew how much you would need that to serve Him." I am still amazed every day at how well the Lord knows me. How much he cares. How much He wants for His children to recieve HIS word. He has given me numerous experiences to help me be a better servent, and because I am far from perfect He has so much patience with me. I can say I am grateful for all the experience I have had in my life. But this week I am grateful mostly for my mother. (Mother, I love you). Festa della Mamma is approaching and I have been thinking quite abit over the past 5 months what I have learned from the wonderful woman that gave me life. She has taught me everything I know, and is full of more wisdom to offer every day. Every mother is important. But my mother is most important to me.

Since entering the MTC, arriving in Italy, going to my first city, having my first companion, having my first transfer, I have recognized what having a mother and father in my life has done for me. I have learned the importance of their roles. Now I am teaching families, mothers, sisters, daughters and I have had the best examples to help me provide a little more knowledge for these people in Italy.

For some reason the past week, possibly the approaching of Mother's Day, I have been thinking a lot about my future. Mostly my future as a mother and wife. Honestly, right now I do not want to think about this since I am serving a mission. Almost everyone I have been working with since arriving in Italy has helped me realize what I want and do not want in my future. As I try to guide these people to Christ, our Savior, I am learning for myself what possibilities are in the future. The good, the bad, the ugly, the beautiful, you see it all. Here is where I think about what my mother has done and taught me. I imagine what I want my life to be like and I look at how my mother has done it. I stop when I come to the rememberance that everything is possible through Christ. Absolutely everything is possible. I have seen my mother accomplish miracles, and I know it is through her faith in our Lord and Redeemer. It is her testimony that has strengthened me more than once throughout my life. Sometimes I wonder how anyone does anything without this knowledge of Jesus Christ. Mother, I thank you for standing firm and sharing your testimony with me.

I have had a few interesting experiences in the past couple days that have also caused me to remember the importance of the Savior. Yesterday I sat down behind a man that turned and smiled at me. I asked him how he was doing, and he replied with a happy "bene, grazie." (I am used to getting the response, "okay", "not good", "eh". So I went along with it). He asked me in return and I replied in the same. The conversation continued as I asked what he had done early in the day and he asked in return. We both said we had typical days, but I continued to explain what I do every day. "My companion (I pointed to her two seats back) and I go around everyday visiting people and trying to talk to people. We have a message of joy that we want to bring to people. Because we have found this joy, we have left our families to help people find the same. We are here to invite people to come to Christ." He responded, "you do a pleasure." I explained to him that it is fun and then asked if he had interest in hearing our message. We only had two short stops together so I handed him a pamphlet and gave him the address of the church and our number. I do not know if he will call, but I do know that he was surprised with what us missionaries were doing here.

Monday night, my companion and I were off the bus walking towards our apartment. We decided we were going to talk to four more people. We stopped the next four we saw and were able to get a conversation out of two. One in particular was asked, "How have you found joy in your life?" He gave us the response that "Joy has not come yet, so I do not know." My heart broke. I then said "We are missionaries for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and we have a message of Joy. A message that will bless your life and your family's life." The conversation continued in the way that we kept promising joy and he kept denying. He left with a pamphlet and I said a little prayer that maybe one day he would accept.

In the past week I have sat in gum - not once, not twice, but three times - and been pooped on by a pigeon. I think those are my only complaints, but even then my companion and I just laughed as we cleaned me up. Torino is growing everyday on me. I get to witness miracles, and am still counting them. (You can count yours too, because I know they are there.) I am glad that I keep having the experiences that will help me be a better servant. I believe everything happens for a reason, a "for a wise purpose, which I know not."

day dreaming,
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

forever.

2009-04-29T17:45:00.004-07:00

My Dear Family. What a wonderful thing, to have a family. I love you.

Well. You seem to be a family of party animals. I am trying to keep up with all the party, but everytime I dance I get stares from anziani or my companion. Apparently when Robert got in trouble in the MTC for letting some moves loose it was for a good reason. To say the least, I am learning (learning key word) to control my desires for a dance. It is a good thing we have an apartment where I can break it DAOWN! "It is always put on your party shoes time", remember that!

Two train rides, a new companion, a new city, and 6 days of rain later I am in Torino. (Did you know Torino means little bull? I learned that on our jog this morning.) Moving and working in a new city is so strange. It is ever more odd when you thought you would serve your whole mission in Genova. I have met many new people and probably work in one of the most missionary motivated wards in the world. Torino is spectacular and I could not ask for a different city to serve in. Although it was hard to leave my love Genova, I see myself falling head over heels with this city. I am already "in like" as you all would say. We are working hard and doing the usual missionary things. Talking to people, getting rejected, running into inactive members we had no idea existed, having people come up to us, etc. Sometimes you see the most amazing miracles and you wonder..."what is going on in my life!?"

Since I am meeting all new people in Torino I am trying especially hard to figure out why I am here and what I can do for these people. I already love them. We visit Maurizia in her flower shop where she just whips out the most beautiful bouquet during our visit. We have found our way through a deserted olympic village and crowds of people avoiding rain in a grocery story. I am reminded every time I look at my watch of the time I was running and fell on my face, I broke my watch in the mean time. We travel by tram and bus, have I mentioned how brilliant public transportation is? Today is the first day of blue skies and sun and for all I know this will be the most beautiful city in Italy. The streets are lined with green trees. The bike lanes are my favorite...I have little flashbacks of my bike. I love watching the families in Olympic park. Working with a new companion is new and exciting. I wish I could tell you more about the city...but I still look lost, I have no idea where I am. Sometimes a man plays the accordian outside our balcony, I go outside and listen.

As for the past week. We spent most of our time introducing me to ward members, investigators, less-actives and just the friendly people on the street. My ward is mission hungry. Every week we meet with the ward mission leader and missionaries. Every Sunday we pass out fliers of when we will be teaching lessons and members sign up. We receive calls from Bishops, Relief Society President, Young womens leaders, etc asking how they can help. What a turn around from my last city. I am beyond excited to work with these people who have a sincere desire to help our brothers and sisters. Tell the Foothills Ward to keep it up. And if I remember correctly Eric is a ward mission leader or missionary...Darien make sure he keeps working on that, you too. Be missionaries, love everyone.

Do a little dance if you can. Smile. Have a wonderful week!
My calendar tells me I get to talk to you soon:)

strawberry fields,
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

This would be Sorella Rasmussen's and my last day together. Bitter sweet.

If you want something, don't ask for nothing.

2009-04-22T20:59:00.003-07:00

Sur la terre et dans les cieux, Dieu a accompli de miracles. Mais le plus grande des prodiges est qu'il ait donné aux hommes la liberté de choisir entre la bien et le mal.

Today is my six week anniversary in Genova, Italy. Six weeks of love. Six weeks of laughs. Six weeks of friendship. Six weeks to say hello and then goodbye. I do not know where the time has taken me. But I do know it has brought moments that I will cherish for eternity! Moments that could never be replaced. Feelings that could not be reproduced. Love that has stretched beyond comprehension. I sit here and reflect (just for a moment) and only feel joy. Why? Because I have a testimony of my savior Jesus Christ. Because I know He loves me. I feel joy because He loves, not only me, but everyone. I know that through Him, and only Him, one can find peace that is eternal. [I do not know this because someone told me, but because I have felt it.]
In the world we can find temporary peace...music, scenery, laughter, love...but then you are snapped back into reality. Trains honking horns, scooters weaving in and out of traffic and people, a street vendor trying to sell you an umbrella even though the sun is shining, friends talking, etc. This is when you remember the chaos of the world. Here is where I try to let people know they do not have to have only temporary happiness. You can have it forever! Who does not want that, raise your hand...

As I mentioned, in the space of six sweet weeks I say hello and goodbye. I fall in love with a city and its people and it pains to bid farewell. During a pleasant lunch with my companion we received a surprise phone call from President who asked to speak to me. "Sorella Carroll, the Lord has given you a new assignment. You are called to serve in Torino with Sorella Smith." I gladly accepted, but deep inside it hurt a little. I may have no idea why this is happening, but it is from the Lord, I will go and I will do. I look forward to what lies ahead. I will always look back at my first area and companion with love and joy. [Have you heard me use those words enough yet?].

As for the past week, it was the best yet. This week is spotlight on Ester. She is a darling lady from El Salvador who lives two hours outside the city with her brother and a Chilean. She spends all her time just down the street from my companion and I caring for a Signora. She is a member, but can not make it to church due to work with Giulia. Instead, my companion and I have had the pleasantry of visiting her about once a week. To teach her and her brother, who is not a member. Last week we had a lesson set up with her brother and showed up at Giulia's house ready to teach. She mentioned that she had called us a couple times but that we did not respond. Miguel had escaped. [We can not figure out why he is scared of us. ha] We decided to visit with her for a couple minutes anyway and as we made our way to the family room I stopped to say hi to sleeping Giulia and asked Ester how she was doing. Ester stopped, took off her glasses, and tears started to drip down her cheeks. You could feel the pain she was feeling as she said that Giulia would not be around much longer. I suppose this is what happens when you take care of someone for six or more years. You love them and when it is time to part it is hard. I wonder why we did not hear the phone, but at that moment I learned what real love and service is. Maybe it was to give Ester comfort, or maybe it was for me to learn that I can always love more and serve more. Maybe a little bit of both. A little miracle.

If you want nothing, don't ask for something.
Sorella Frédérique Stone Carroll

"On earth as in heaven, God has accomplished miracles. But the greatest of wonders is that He has given man the freedom to choose between good and evil."

photo: look how far apart we are! Brother and sister.

photo: In front of Genova apartment

licht liebe leben

2009-04-15T19:45:00.004-07:00

"Our beating heart drives us lower, pushes us always further toward the original ground."

The minutes, hours, days, week just keep getting better. As a matter of fact, the past week has been the best week of my life. My companion and I could not be better friends, even when I drive her insane with my odd habits. We meet the most interesting, kind, loving, funny, pleasant people you could find in the world. I have this fear inside that for some reason President will take her away from me because we do not have problems. I fear that, if true, comes to life next week. One transfer is about over. Time here means nothing and everything. It seems to disappear the second you look at it.

Let us talk about the great things that I saw, heard and did this week. I know this is more for me to reflect on how funny/fun my life is...but I also wish you could have witnessed it with me.

This week's greats:
1. As we were leaving e-mail last Wednesday I saw from the bus on the way home, a man that I may or may not have fallen in love with. Why? Only because I fell in love with his outfit. Red high-top Chucks, navy suit with flood pants, striking red sweater and the trendiest glasses you ever did see. Since I did not see his face, I decided he was good-looking in my imagination. (Okay, I am not in love...I am a Sorella, but I get to look at some of the most interesting fashion. This man was more relaxed.) If you really want to see some of what I have seen take a peek at the sartorialist.
2. Have you ever taught a lesson in a Ford Fiesta? Sorella Rasmussen and I have. The best. We were also parked next to the gypsies' silver CHALLENGER 50 SX (a motor home). When I buy myself a silver bullet, I will be naming it something similar, recommendations are welcome.
3. I met a Chilean and only wanted to talk about my brother. Yup, Robert. I will hopefully be teaching this Chilean more often. He also had the privilege of being baptized twice, Chile and Italy. Maybe Robert can help the Chileans organize their records so when people move they do not need to be baptized twice? I have seen a few of these people who had the privilege.
4. I went to another baptism in my second ward for a husband and wife. Miracles really do happen!
5. You can call me the rudest person in the world, but on Monday I just had to laugh out loud when waiting for the cross walk. We were waiting ever so patiently when coming toward us was a man playing with his dentures inside his mouth, popping them in and out...in and out. Then I looked past him and saw an old woman with her jaw dropped just staring. Her face made it seem like 'dentures man' had just taken hers and popped them in his mouth.
6. The great moment of the week was EASTER! What a miraculous event to celebrate. What a beautiful season. I thought I was going to miss out on the fun Easter egg hunt at home, but to my surprise Monday morning at District meeting our sweet (as in cool) DL hid 107 mini eggs around the building. Of course it lead to a discussion on finding work, but that definitely boosted all our spirits. My companion and I even went out that day and found a great Italian family to begin teaching. Again, miracles do happen.
7. Last, but not least, the trees than line the streets are growing leaves, turning green, hinting at spring and summer, and my favorite. Genova is the best city. We are never leaving!

I love to walk into our little Metro (little meaning there is only one line with 7 stops) and hear Ricky Martin telling me he is living the crazy life. I love visiting our new converts and hearing their testimonies, struggles, loves and trying to help them progress. I love seeing our newest investigator family with their two little boys, Giovanni and Martino. It is hard not being able to play with all the children like I would at home. I adore a less active family with a daughter waiting to get baptized. We work with them at least once a week, and are always greeted with dog kisses and baci on both cheeks. I do not like when I cry through an entire lesson because one of your investigators is not understanding the importance of her decisions, and no matter what you do with your teaching you can not seem to get the point across (I still have so much to work on). I love working with my companion and always improving our skills, so that we can eventually help our friends make the right decision. This has become my love, and obviously my life. There is nothing more that I need.

Thank you for love!

Tout comprendre c'est tout pardonner,
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

Sorella Carroll and Elder Carroll showing some dance moves before leaving Provo

never gonna leave...

2009-04-08T18:53:00.000-07:00

"The next time you are tempted to groan, you might try to laugh instead. It will extend your life, and make the lives of all those around you more enjoyable."
--Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin

My new philosophy. I believe laughter is the key, and maybe that is because I laugh too much. Apology. Try it next time. I have found it much more satisfying to laugh because then it makes EVERYTHING fun. I'll tell you an experience...
My companion and I were asked to visit one of the counselor's mother. She had previously rejected invites to take missionary lessons, but consented this time. Being missionaries and all, we jumped on in and set up an appointment. It was a Friday morning and we were on our way, sort of. None of the buses were working in our favor and unfortunately we did not learn of any other way to reach her house until after. The last bus we had to catch passed maybe a minute before we got there, laugh. It was a decision to walk or wait thirty minutes for another bus. Walking it was. We were well on our way when we learned we would be walking up-mountain (not just up hill) the whole way. What we did not know was that it would take us an hour to reach our destination. When we work in two we support each other and keep one another moving. Sorella Rasmussen and I were so happy to be going for a hike in one of the most beautiful areas I have seen. Oh, there to our left is a castle. The higher we got, the bigger my hair. We could see our breath, but we were also wet due to sweat and humidity. I thought at one point, "why are we both smiling, laughing and singing?" Because, we are missionaries! I have never seen a more surprised person when she saw what we had done. But we were satisfied because the bus pulled up 15 seconds after we did. WE WON!

We may have not been the most presentable for a new investigator lesson...but it was well worth the beauty of the view and the chance to meet a very interesting, smart woman! I will be sure to inform you what comes of our adventure!

We go from day to day trying to get people to accept our message. The woman next to me on the bus is praying as we pass a Catholic church and the man in front is singing in English. Neither have an interest, but they are still a joy to talk to. The old man in the red shoes, corduroy jacket, and argyle sweater walks past and all I want to do is go stop him. I guess all you can offer is a smile.

THEN you contact a referral just for fun because someone canceled. You are already by their house and they say yes come one in. She has two boys, one is 1 the other is 3. She has a hope in eternal families, and I have already fallen in love. Our quick five minute visit turns into thirty and we leave with another appointment. You never get too sad, because you know there is someone else out there.

You go to visit a meno-attivo and when you leave to buy her groceries an old man tells you that you need a tan. As you are leaving the grocery store you catch a glimpse of a friend at home and realize it is just a gypsy with a beard and scarf around his head.
You start to dance at the bus stop because you have to go to the bathroom so bad. You slightly enjoy it because it is the only time you get to dance in public on a mission.
At the end of the day you can not wait for the next.

All the while you are laughing. Because someone has put extra love and joy in your heart and you could not do this without that support.

We did a Conference blitz this week. Anyone and everyone was invited. Bus, train, street, neighbors, church. You name it, we got it. The pigeons pooped, the dog mess was stepped in, the old men were more interested in the Sorelle than the invite, the rain fell, and we were able to get a good number of people to attend. Unfortunately for me Conference was not well understood, a good 6 hours of language practice though.

It just keeps getting better. Everyday. Week. Month. Thank you.

Lemon groves,
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

photograph: We went to Genova Nervi to see the beach. This man caught my fancy.

Sorella Carroll, Beatrice, and Sorella Rasmussen

I wanna be cooler than TV

2009-04-01T19:07:00.003-07:00

"The voices of a thousand friends are dying away in the distance, while before me is a land of strangers, whose tongues soon will sound in my ears like the jargon of Babal. I have been refreshed with the company of so many kind friends, and go forth on my mission with renewed energy of body and mind." --Elder Lorenzo Snow (who served right here in Northern Italy)

I felt that same way as I left the MTC. Now that I am here I feel just at home.

I want to tell you about the first two people I met in Genova. Both female, both Italian. Both are beautiful in their own way, and both have helped me grow.

Beatrice, my first appointment. I will never forget that walk to her house with thoughts running through my mind as to what this so said Beatrice would be like. This is what I knew...She had decided to quit smoking three days prior and annouced it to my companion. The missionaries began teaching in December after she came to church on her own. I knew she was wonderful before I met her. I could write quite a bit on what this individual means to me, but I will spare you all the feelings. Our first little lesson was scary and a blur. I still have a hard time communicating with her, but I am grateful for her help always. We taught her once before our first district meeting of the transfer and as we mentioned how she was doing one elder brought up her baptism. It was already scheduled for March 29th but because of the smoking bit no one was exactly sure. She had quit by now, cold turkey, and we decided to bring up the baptism with her at our next appointment. I do not know if I have seen someone happier. I do not think I have felt happier than in that moment. The week continued and all seemed well. Last week was different. The week of her baptism she cancelled all her appointments and there was nothing we could do. English class on Tuesday night gave us a couple minutes to talk to her about all that was going on, what she was thinking, how she was doing, etc. Both my companion and I talked to her at different moments that night and apparently said the same thing, we both mentioned that the decision to be baptized or not is not a decision between you and your friends it is a decision between you and Heavenly Father. We left her that night a little nervous, and Wednesday the fear was still there. We did a quick visit that night and to our pleasant pleasant surprise she put the fear and indecision behind her and said she was ready. The baptism was beautiful (except for my weather torn appearance, sorry Beatrice). I cried everytime I looked at her. I felt true joy, I felt more love for someone than I think I have ever felt. Heavenly Father put his feelings inside of me so I could witness the incredible love that he feels for each of his children, you and me. Beatrice is beaming with love and happiness. She knows the road is not going to be all fun and games from here but she has the faith and testimony to help her through. Beatrice, the first person I met, was baptized.

I know this work is not about numbers, but If I can be selfish for one second and want to feel that love and joy I felt on Friday everyday for the rest of my life, I say please.

Now for our second victim of explanation. Adriana. We visit her every Friday to do a little grocery shopping for, what seems to be, a little self-storage. She gets the same thing every week: 7 yogurts, 3 bags of spaghettini, chicken or fish, novellina biscotti, bread and yellow apples. Her spaghetti is piling high in her cupboard, but she always wants more. I sometimes wonder what she eats besides yogurt and apples and cookies. Simple lady with a simple diet. Have you ever seen Chicken Run? Do you remember how they waddle while they walk? This is Adriana. Possibly the greatest. She eats you up every times she sees your face, she cries when you leave. She speaks very particularly, and always helps you with your language. All the missionaries who have gone before have written their name on her wall. She rejoices when she gets a letter. She dislikes when you use the formal you form, but has finally given in since we are obedient little missionaries. She waves at you from her window when she knows you are coming. She waits till you get to the bottom of the stairs and wave goodbye to shut her door. Adriana, is one of a kind. I love her.

Remember last week I mentioned getting on the wrong train? This caused us to miss sacrament so Sorella Rasmussen and I tagged along with the Anziani to take the sacrament with Adriana. (They bring her the sacrament every other week). It was a special experience having a little sacrament meeting on our own. I will cherish those simple quiet moments with that wonderful woman that helped bring me closer to my Savior in remembrance. What a beautiful blessing.

I feel right at home. These are my people and I love them. I hope you love them like I do. It is hard to explain my sincere feelings through the computer medium, but I am ever so grateful for what they have done for me in the past three weeks.

For all the kids,
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

show me, show me, show me!

2009-03-25T07:12:00.000-07:00

The sun is shining. Birds are flying. People are playing. Missionaries are preparing. What a great day. I could not ask for anything more. Especially when I get to see the old ladies sitting on a park bench with their feet dangling in the air, like they just don't care. It is even better when you try to talk to them but can not seem to understand what language they are speaking. You look a little closer, and realize they do not have teeth. Something I may or may not have struggled with a time or two.

Sorella Carroll is welcoming the lion's mane for her entire mission. Who would have thought too much power came out of an Italian electrical outlet? But it is all okay because we just had the first day of spring. Even though the wind blows fiercely and makes the mane that much more wild, I smile because soon the flowers will blossom. I just imagine this city turning into a wonderland. Well, it already is a wonderland.

Story of the week: As a sister in Genova you get the privilege of working with two wonderful wards. Travel between areas takes place by train. I ride a train or two daily which makes life that much better. Switching off between wards every Sunday can be fun except when you take the wrong train, in the wrong direction, and it does not stop. My companion may or may not have misled me. But as soon as we hopped on board and found satisfactory seats the train was on its way to Pisa. Although it was not a direct train ride, it only makes a few stops. We made it about 30 minutes before it went for more passengers. Supposedly there would be a train going back right away, but that was delayed 30 minutes. Church has started and we are stranded. The ward we ended up at was not the right one, but maybe a good thing. In the end I can say the mistake was worth the ride. A good learning experience and new friends met.

My trainer is an all-star. We love her. Despite my quirkiness, she seems to express some love for me too. I feel like the work is going to soar as long as we keep up the dedication. One thing I have learned is not many people are interested in what I have to share with them. You stop in a park, you knock doors, you attempt to help people on the street and most just say "No, no grazie." I want to shed a tear or two for each person who does not want to have joy. I want to shed a tear for the people I meet on trains who have no hope in the world. I want to shed a tear for the investigators who give up. But somehow I have the strength to keep going because there IS someone who wants to know, I just have to find them. I am learning everyday how I can improve.

Speaking of improvement. Zone Conference. My first. Truly inspired. My mission president may be the smartest man in Italy. I know what I need to become, because that man (along with other missionaries) have inspired me. One missionary in particular struck my attention. One that you may know...Elder Josh Morris. This here is my mission idol. First of all, it was a familiar face that made the sun shine a little bit brighter. Second, he blew me away with his comments, teaching, and testimony. It is so neat to see that change that can take place in the life of a person. I hope, I pray I can emmulate the missionary that he has become. (Brother and Sister Morris, I am sure you are proud, but I am proud to say he is from my home stake. I am proud to associate with such great missionaries.)

Say hi to someone you do not know today. Smile at another. Give a compliment. Start a conversation. Make a new friend. Surprise someone with a kind gesture. In Italy it seems to surprise people all the time. People have stopped to ask if we knew each other. I stutter a no, but it is a beautiful day to say hello and offer a message. Then you say a little prayer that one day they will run into another missionary and that missionary will reach their heart and soften it.

My eyes fill with sweet water as I think about how blessed I am to be here. How much guidance and help I receive everyday. The love that I have been filled with. There is nothing more exciting than meeting someone new and loving them like I love my sister.

How you do that trick!
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

Elder Morris and Sorella Carroll (both from Ahwatukee)

I'll Die Smiling

2009-03-18T18:23:00.005-07:00

"We stand at the crossroads, each minute, each hour, each day, making choices. We choose the thoughts we allow ourselves to think, the passions we allow ourselves to feel, and the actions we allow ourselves to perform. Each choice is made in the context of whatever value system we've selected to govern our lives. In selecting that value system, we are, in a very real way, making the most important choice we will ever make.
[...]
"Since the foundation of all happiness is thinking rightly, and since correct action is dependent on correct opinion, we cannot be too careful in choosing the value system we allow to govern our thoughts and actions.
"And to know that God governs in the affairs of men, that He hears and answers prayers, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him, is indeed, a powerful regulator of human conduct."
--Benjamin Franklin

What have I learned this week? (Besides the fact that a European keyboard is completely different than an American one.) That I am so lucky to have my Heavenly Father on my side. He is helping me with every step I take. I really can feel it. I know it.

Plane to plane to plane. Bus to mission home. Interview. Get to know the area, the assistants and the President. A quick trip to the Duomo. Bed. Really the first day was a blur, but I know I felt excited to be back in Italy. Day two: I learned where I would be spending at least the next transfer (we hope much more time). GENOVA. What a fantastic city, full of fabulous people, lined with colorful piazzas, and surrounded by the deep blue sea. Funny that this city was my first choice, lucky girl.

Guess what, I am a real Sorella! I teach (when I can figure out what the others are saying). I talk to people on the street. I smile. I pretend I know Italian. I go to district meetings. I have a companion/trainer teaching me all the ins and outs. I love life. It is incredible because, like I stated in the beginning, I have had someone walking with me every step of the way. The fear I thought I would feel has not even approached. Any nerves I assumed would come, have had no time to effect me. I am amazed. Of course I have language galore to explore, but I am lucky to have the help of nearly every person I meet eyes with. Keep smiling.

I came into an area with work which seems to be soaring. I love the people we have been working with and am excited to find more. I am building the courage to talk to more and more people every day. Everyone we work with is a little different and they have the most unique personalities. As I learn their stories I know you and I both will grow to love them without end.

Life has never been busier. As a matter of fact, last Saturday my companion and I literally ran from one appointment to the next. No time to spare. But who has time to spare when you are trying to share the most important message anyone will hear? No one.

I sit at this computer and think about what I am doing. I realize it does not really matter if I am in Italy or Wyoming. Genova or Heber, Utah. It only matters that I am a missionary. A sister missionary. The days when I think to myself, "I miss the MTC" or something of the sorts, I remember that there are people waiting and ready for me. Here we go, together. Thank you!

God knows me, what I need. He knows you, and what you need. He knows the people around me, and what they need. I love love love that He prepares the way for all we will ever do. "God governs [...] the affairs of men, [...] He hears and answers prayers, [...] He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him, is indeed, a powerful regulator of human conduct."

Thank you. Find a miracle in every day. Smile.

Blue Skies.
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

Pic of the week: Brother and sister. Red crying eyes(for me), red rash face(for him). I may or may not have cried like a baby. I left for Italy!

According to picture books.

2009-03-03T17:14:00.003-07:00

One week down. The rest of my life to go!

Sometimes I want a video camera on me at all times so I can capture every moment, every emotion. Or maybe I could teach a Mynah my thoughts and send it your way...This will be my solution. Next time you see a dark brown slightly crested bird that originates in Asia...it is from me. Love.

In honor of the recent love month, I wanted to share my thoughts on love. I believe in a thang called loooo-ooove.

Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. (1 John 4:7-11)

All we need is love.

As my time at the MTC comes to a close I realize how much I love this place. I believe I have shared my love before, but believe me when I say I might miss it. I will always hold a special place in my heart for the place that taught me how to be a missionary. Never will I be perfect, but I am grateful for the ground work I received here (not only for my mission, but for the rest of my life).

After only being out eight weeks, I could not imagine my life with out this mission. I can not imagine being a wife or a mother without this experience. I realize we are all different, but in all honesty...I know I can be that much better if I really apply all that I am learning to the rest of my life. And the most important thing I have learned is love. Why? Because "charity never faileth" and "charity is the pure love of Christ." So every day this is what we missionaries strive towards. Again, I am the farthest from perfect.

Within my district I have learned the most love. There is no doubt in my mind that our district was placed together for a reason. We have become a family, and a family that loves each other. This past Sunday was an interesting experience for all of us. "The love chair." I'll explain, everyone gets a chance to take a seat in "the chair" while everyone else says what they love about this person. You just like the way you feel when you sit in that chair. Except I now know you can feel that way always when you are in the service of your God and recognize the immense amount of love that he has for each one of us. The best! So after two hours of love sharing, Christ was placed on the chair while we all were given the opportunity to bear witness that He lives! and that we love Him! I love Him! Fourteen of us, immature young adults, have grown to love, respect, and appreciate each other in just a mere 8 weeks. Although half of my district will be heading to Rome I am so excited for us all. Every Elder will go on to do great things on their missions and in life. I love them for their examples. I love my companion.

Let us just celebrate love. In less than one week I will be sharing the greatest love of all with the greatest people of all. Christ's love. Italians.

Heaven is a partly cloudy place,
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

Everybody is going to love today, love today, love today!

2009-02-24T19:23:00.002-07:00

I love you.

(No one says "I love you" enough. I still am not a fan of the fact that I am unable to say it to every one and anyone I meet. I love all missionaries.)

Here I am, expressing the only love I can. I love you. Thank you for being a part of my life. Two weeks from today this MTC adventure becomes something much larger. It is probable that I would not have the courage to make this step alone. I appreciate the continuous support and love. I love you.

William Shakespeare wisely said, "They do not love that do not show their love." I have experienced more love than I could ask for. I have learned to love through all the love shown to me. Mother, Father, Sister, Brothers, you have taught me to love. You have helped me to love. Love is really what makes the world turn.

Speaking of Jesus Christ, President Thomas S. Monson stated,
"He taught us how to pray. He taught us how to serve. He taught us how to live. His life is a legacy of love. The sick He healed; the downtrodden He lifted; the sinner He saved.'
"The time came when He stood alone. Some Apostles doubted; one betrayed Him. The Roman soldiers pierced His side. The angry mob took His life. There yet rings from Golgotha’s hill His compassionate words, 'Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.'
"Earlier, perhaps perceiving the culmination of His earthly mission, He spoke the lament, 'Foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath no where to lay his head.' 'No room in the inn' was not a singular expression of rejection—just the first. Yet He invites you and me to receive Him. 'Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.'
"Who was this Man of sorrows, acquainted with grief? Who is the King of glory, this Lord of hosts? He is our Master. He is our Savior. He is the Son of God. He is the Author of our Salvation. He beckons, 'Follow me.' He instructs, 'Go, and do thou likewise.' He pleads, 'Keep my commandments.'
"Let us follow Him. Let us emulate His example. Let us obey His word. By so doing, we give to Him the divine gift of gratitude."

I hope you know how much I love you.

This past week has been one of goal accomplishing and I am feeling great. I finished the Book of Mormon in 4 weeks. I can run 3.5 miles (Ram I know that is nothing compared to you, but it means I am getting closer to my 5 mile goal in the next 2 weeks). I am teaching all lessons in Italian. Slowly but surely the language is coming. I felt the Spirit in much of what I did, which is always a comfort. I am understanding the importance of "EXACT OBEDIENCE." I think most importantly I am understanding that this mission is not my mission. This mission is the Lord's mission, I am His instrument. There is a lot of trust placed on missionaries, and it is sometimes difficult to always remain worthy of this trust. I am happy all missionaries work together.

Remember the Plan of Salvation and how it is the greatest "idea" put to work ever? Remember how THE Gospel of Jesus Christ was restored through Joseph Smith? Although the only thing I remember from my baptism was my green velvet dress and the shivering cold water, I am so happy to have made those covenants with the Lord and progress on to the Temple. Remember how eternal families are the best? Remember how you are stuck with me for eternity? Like Berto, I did sealings last week and I was reminded of the time we went as a family. Although I do not remember the event, I remember the joy that was probably felt. Thank you for letting me be a part of such a magnificent family.

Let's keep remembering...Remember how we have a Prophet on the earth today. Remember how God loves us so much that He sent his only begotten in the flesh to suffer and die for me? For you? Do you remember? I am reminded everyday, and can hardly stand the fact that I get to declare this to people in Italy. Say your prayers that I can effectively get this message to them.
REMEMBER HOW I AM A MISSIONARY?

For the first time last week I cried because of a family member (since being in the MTC). They were a mix of tears of joy and tears of sadness. I am one privileged sister to have a brother here. It is a fact that most people are jealous that I get to see my brother more than once a week. My class was preparing to teach the Plan of Salvation in Italian on Saturday night (best Saturday Night I've ever had!). Our scenario was teaching an individual who was recently divorced and lost a brother. My teacher really tried to emphasize the importance of relating to the individual. As my teacher did the example I really started to feel the emotion. I put myself in the shoes of the person who just lost their brother and I could not bear the thought of it. Although I understand and have a testimony of eternal life, death is still something hard to handle. (This is one reason I believe I need to say "I love you" more often, through word and deed.) Anyway, as I was thinking about this, the thought popped into my head and I realized I am not going to see Robert for 2 years. I do not know why it was so difficult, probably because I have had the comfort of having him around. The tears were of joy because he is going to be the best missionary, and sadness because I will no longer have a family member around to say hi to. So, I cried a little. I feel your love every day though, thank you for your love. I miss you.

Top 10 of the week:
1. Funny Anziani.
2. Elder M. Russell Ballard.
3. Companionship study.
4. 25 new Italian missionaries. (Increasing our zone to over 50.)
5. Sorella Nelson.
6. Ally Snyder. A precious girl in an LDS commercial who reminded me that I need to finish any race I ever begin.
7. The temple.
8. Family.
9. My Patriatchal Blessing.
10. My Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ.

I love you.

Any way you want to, any way you got to.
Frederique Stone

All the colors.

2009-02-17T19:25:00.003-07:00

The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Romans. Chapter 5, verses 3 through 5. "And not only so, but we GLORY in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God IS shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us."

The Book of Psalms. Chapter 46, verse 10 and 11. "Be still, and KNOW, that I am God...The LORD of hosts IS with us..."

I realize we all wonder at times why we have hard times, but then we learn it is all beneficial in the end. I do not share these verses of scripture because I had a hard week. In all honesty it was a marvelous week, but I believe I found these scriptures in order to better prepare myself for what may come in the future. (on or off the mission) So take them for what they are worth. "That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:" (1 Peter 1:7).

I have transformed into your cheesiest missionary sharing scripture after scripture. Who knew I would ever love this so much? Sorry if I get annoying.

This past week I spent all my study time on the Book of Mormon and October 2008 General Conference. When I received the call to be a missionary I remember having this extreme excitement. A week later was Conference and we had the ever-so wonderful opportunity to hear so much about missionary work. I thought, "Thank you, all you members of the church for attending or watching this conference directed at me." As I re-read these talks I am reminded at how much the last conference really was focused on missionary work and how important it is. I remember the announcement of the 5 new temples, the last being Rome, Italy. I started to cry, it was as if I already had so much love for everyone in Italy. I immediately felt my need to serve a mission in Italy. So here I go, only three more weeks and I will be there. Sometimes it is a little scary, and sometimes I have absolutely no patience (meaning to get there). Mixed emotions of inadequacy and unpreparedness (is that a word?) but excitement to bring those who I love the "good news!"

Italian, I keep getting questions about the language. We are now teaching in only Italian and it is the best ever. Although half the time my companion (whose, did I mention, father is Italian...mother served a mission in Italy...and brother served in Italy...they are a family of italian speakers) is saving me when I mess up or can not say something correctly, I LOVE IT. It is funny sitting in class watching all the elders learn this new language and seeing how much we have all learned already. Seriously? How can someone learn a language in 9 weeks? Close to impossible, but when you are blessed with the Spirit and the help of our Father in Heaven there is nothing better. I absolutely KNOW that I have been helped 100 percent of the time when it comes to my language abilities. All I know is that when I arrive in Italy I will hardly understand a thing, just like last summer. As long as I just jump in there I believe the language will end up being a success. The language is coming, and I am learning that the more work I put into it the more I get out of it. ...AND...this also applies to every aspect of my life.

I got the wonderful news about two friends and their mission calls. Shout out, AJ and Brett! I do not think you could understand my excitement right now. So far, missions are the best idea ever.

Oh by they way, Happy (late) LOVE Day. Although we did not "celebrate" the love with our fellow missionaries, it was a grand day. I still remember my favorite Valentines Day when I went out with you, Dad. So much fun. Have I mentioned my family is amazing? I hope that the day was fun for all! The Anziani loved their Disney Princess Valentines.

I wish I had more time and more to say. Every day is the same, but I never stop learning. This morning seems like 10 days ago but last Tuesday seems like yesterday. I have something exciting happen every day. I am making some of the best of friends. I am pretty sure I knew these missionaries before hand, seeing as how well I get along with all of them. I love my teachers. I love my companion. I love my brother. I love you, family. I love my friends, here and at home. I love love. I still love being a missionary. I love being guided every day. I love the joy that I feel. I love being happy. I love being about to make that decision to be happy. I love loving everyone. I LOVE YOU!

In a Circus,
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

They claw and claw all afternoon.

2009-02-10T19:13:00.003-07:00

This past week has been one of contemplation. I have given a lot of thought to life's purpose, and my purpose specifically. A number of ideas popped in my head that really caused me to ponder the entire existence of the human race. Since I am going to be answering many people's questions about this I decided I really should give thought to my own experiences, my own family, my past and my future. Everything that I thought about circled around to the great Plan of Happiness that is set before us. I just thought I would share a couple of thoughts. Mostly these consist of how thankful I am for my life, and the opportunity to be here in the city of MTC preparing to go to a beautiful country and teach a glorious people.

Last Tuesday, February 3rd, we had the usual devotional. I believe it was a member of the Quorum of the Seventy that spoke to us. The topic was various "things" but two that I wrote the most about were prayer and desires. During his segment on prayer the thought came to my head about something I had prayed for beginning three years ago. When I started college and was struggling in my Italian classes I looked for help from different people. Italian class after italian class and I still was doing pretty poorly. I am pretty sure I thought I would never be able to learn the language. Finally after talking to a friend I was told to maybe pray for the help to learn the language not for my benefit, but for the benefit of someone else. To use the knowledge I will gain to invite others unto Christ. Although I thought this was a little odd (I had no idea who I would ever speak to in Italian about the Gospel) I did it anyway. I began to pray for the help in the language. To tell you the truth, I do not know if I noticed a change in my language skills (until now). This could only be one of two things, the Lord telling me what to pray for in preparation for my mission (through the guidance of a friend), or the Lord answering my prayers. I believe it to be a little of both. When this thought came to my mind I was amazed and knew that I am indebted to my Father in Heaven and must keep going. It is amazing how well He knows each and every one of us. I love His love.

Last week we were asked by our teacher, Fratello Macdonald, to write down a spiritual experience and translate it into Italian. I am still working on mine, but it is also something that caused the wheels to turn in my head. I wrote about my first accident and the feelings I have concerning it. Then I recalled the car accident our family was in, in Tucson. And of course the time I de-planted the median while I was asleep. Finally, the reason I am going back to Italy...to retrieve the skin from my leg that was left on the asphalt in Siena due to a scooter accident. (thank you Rey) I am not reminding you of these stories because I want you to think "wow, Rique we are so glad you are here." I relay these stories because of how humbled and blessed I feel at the outcome of every one. I know, I absolutely know that the Lord and his angels were watching over me. My first accident I blacked out and do not remember anything but the beginning and end. There is no way I was controlling the vehicle myself. Both Robert and I were being watched over and serving missions is part of the reason. I know we all have a purpose here, and Robert and I are beginning to fulfill this purpose. So happy.

With my scooter accident I started replaying the event in my head down to the finest detail. I told you the reason I crashed was because a car was getting really close and I decided to speed up. There were probably 3 or 4 cars behind me, and 3 or 4 coming the other way. When I crashed I was amazed that the car directly behind me did not plow me into the ground considering how close they really were. Come to think of it I have no idea how it did not happen, and I do not remember seeing any cars pass me. The people on the other side of the road are the ones who helped me. Not that my accident was serious, just that it could have been serious had I not been looked after. I know I have not always acted grateful especially for the opportunity to be here, but I want you to know that I really am. I am so lucky to have an eternal family and have the confidence that although I am not with you, you are all being watched over and protected. Thank you family, I love you.

The rest of the week was fabulous. My companion and I taught our first lesson in Italian which went better than I expected, but I still have a long long way to go before I get to Italy. I am hoping these next 4 weeks can get me going a little better. Sunday rolled around and I gave a 5-minute Italian talk in sacrament. Actually you could call our sacrament meeting "The Sorella Carroll Spectacular" (or not so spectacular). I played the hymns, a musical number, and spoke...talk about butterflies in my stomach.

I believe I forgot to mention to you the other language I am learning here besides Italian. It would be the language of the hands. Yes, I am learning ASL. I have become friends with the ASL missionaries and they are teaching me little by little. The strongest desire has come over me to learn sign language, so I decided that this is going to be something I will completely learn upon returning home. Along with Icelandic and French. (Pah, sometimes I wish days and weeks were longer so we had all the time in the world to do things like that. Then I remember there is Eternity!) Anyway sign language is so expressive and beautiful. I love to sit in the interpreters' section and watch. One of these days, hopefully!

The MTC is still Disneyland. I have made so many friends, sometimes it is hard to watch them leave. Hopefully I will see some of them again. I love missionaries. Thank you for being missionary supporters and loving us too. I love you more than you will ever know. I am so thankful to be your daughter and friend. I have the best, best friends in the world.

Bridges and Balloons,
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

Old Habits Die Hard.

2009-02-03T18:47:00.005-07:00

I am having a hard time figuring out where to begin this letter. This week has been busy, exciting, stressful, knowledgeable, crazy, the happiest, the most overwhelming, the every type of week you can have crammed into one. (Some of these words probably are not a proper way to describe a week, but I did it anyway.) But... It was the best. week. ever.

We will start with an explanation of a dance party. 8 o'clock AM, laundry room, one church music filled iPod, two mini speakers, two dancing machine missionaries. It was meant to be a dance party for all, but turned into "let's watch Sister Carroll and Sister Nelson get their dance on." It was quick, it was a delight!

Now on to the serious "stuff." I still really enjoy being a missionary, and a Sister Missionary at that. (Being a Sister gives you a couple special privileges. Such as, getting an extra 2 dollars on your card every week, which I don't spend often but it is there; having Anziani [Italian for Elders] clear your tray upon finishing eating, having all Anziani stand when you approach the table with food in hand, and you get to be called Hermanas by the Spanish speakers which makes me feel closer to my sister who was an Hermana and will always be my hermana.)

There is an Elder in my district who is one of the most positive people I have ever met. I am striving to have his attitude. Every day last week I was able to respond to his typical question, "Isn't this just the best day ever?" with a "YES!" I will continue to do so. All we have to do is wake up, whisper to ourselves "this is going to be the best day," move forward and make that whisper a controlled scream.

This week I decided I am most grateful for the answers to prayers. Not just one prayer when Heavenly Father feels like it, but EVERY prayer. Sometimes I forget to be mindful of the timing and He always knows what is best for me and when I should be receiving answers, but needless to say, He never fails to give me an answer. I am learning every day more and more about how to recognize the Holy Ghost in my life and the way I receive revelation or guidance. I was blessed with the gift of the Holy Ghost when I was confirmed a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but I LOVE the fact that we all are granted the Light of Christ in which we can receive guidance as long as we desire and are striving to live in accordance with gospel principles.

I do not mean to make this a boring letter, I just had a number of spiritual experiences this week that will forever change my mission and the rest of my life. I learned what I am doing, why I am doing this, how I will do this, and when (meaning now and the rest of my life). It all started with an experience during MTC choir that lead me to understand that if I am going to do anything at all, I must do it with my whole heart or not do it at all. As I wrote this down and strived for it throughout the week my entire experience changed. Even when I hit the rough patches, which yes rough things happen in the MTC (the happiest place on earth), I was able to confront them whole heartedly. Not always easy, but I guess you could say fun and an incredible learning experience.

Then I learned the importance of people in my life and that sometimes, maybe more often than not, the Lord speaks through these people to me. As a district we were given the opportunity to study one Christ-like attribute and teach it to another in the class. I taught my companion who then after she taught me. Her little lesson was something that I absolutely needed to hear, and will need to hear over and over and over again. The atonement is something I have a dear dear love for and know that literally no one can live without it. "And behold, I am the light and the life of the world; and I have drunk out of the bitter cup which the Father hath given me, and have glorified the Father in taking upon me the sins of the world, in the which I have suffered the will of the Father in all things from the beginning." (3 Nephi 11:11) Sorella Rossi compared ourselves and our missions to the Apostles who were to pray while Christ submitted himself to the will of the Father. (This can be found in Matthew 26, which I highly recommend reading). After she finished reading the passage the thought came to her mind, "can we not wait one hour with the Lord, can we not give him one hour of our lives with all capability of heart, can we not serve for this short amount of time with all our might, mind and strength? If we but do this, we will be able to have our rest. Now he needs all of us." He needs all of me, no less. He actually needs all of us to go forth and help bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man Moses 1:39. This is the first moment in the MTC where I learned that the Lord uses everyone around me to teach me something new. He also gave me my companion for a very specific reason of which I am slowly realizing.

I gave myself a challenge to read the Book of Mormon, The Doctrine and Covenants, and The Pearl of Great Price while here in the MTC. I am reading about 20 pages a day during personal study time which has been perfect. My testimony has been completely strengthened through reading the scriptures and I am grateful for the example of you my family who has been faithful and diligent in scripture reading. Keep up the good work. (There is a little goofy missionary challenge for you!) While reading the past couple of days I was able to learn of the dear love that I have for Mosiah chapters 2 through 5. King Benjamin being the mouth of the Lord. I wish I could proclaim this wonderful word the way he did, but since it has already been done and so graciously recorded, we can all have the message!

I am very quickly running out of time in this e-mail but also in my time at the MTC. One month gone, surprise! Happiest day, I love you so much! I could not do this without you!

My sentimental heart,
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

you rock, rock.

2009-01-27T18:30:00.001-07:00

This week I win the cheesiest sister missionary award. Why? Well I am going to serve in Italy and just so happen to own a bright green cardigan with a map of Italy on the front. So what do I do? Wear it! I am a sister missionary, therefore "Ah dew whad ah wont." (I do what I want). No but really, being a sister missionary feels like such a special privilege. I know it is a very special privilege. Being a missionary in general gives you that special feeling. That loving feeling.

Bug eyes could be my nickname this week. Again I am amazed at how much you learn. Before departing on this adventure, well I guess before submitting my mission papers I was fairly confident I could teach anything I needed to. Boy are you humbled upon entrance into the field. But how can you possibly do the Lord’s work when you are proud. He picks the weak things of the world and only through Him can we be made strong. So all along I was really a weak one. Rique, Sorella Carroll, keep going!

I apologize because I am pretty sure writing these weekly letters are more helpful for me than telling you much about my life right now. But I am just doing the greatest work ever. Don't worry.

I learned how immature I am this week. This is nothing against the 19 year-old elders in my zone, but I have a pretty similar sense of humor as them. Oh, and to test my level of maturity (which at times seems lower than anyone else) the Australian elder in my district, Anziano White, told me a story. It was about his "mate" and this mate’s fiancée. These two were sitting on the couch about to watch a movie when the girlfriend asked why they never watched mature films (of something of that nature, I am not familiar with Australian rating systems but I believe it is equal to our PG-13). This mate of Anziano White leaned into his fiancée’s face and said "booger." As Anziano White said this he looked at me and right when he said booger I busted up laughing. I would love to blame this laughter on his accent but really I could not. Sorry mother and father I can be quite the embarrassment. Now I know what I should be working on, on top of striving to be a better missionary.

I do not know how it goes for anyone else but before I became a missionary I thought becoming one would make life so much easier. I do appreciate the greater difficulties though. Now I am learning to work harder than I ever have before. Again with the bug eyes. I am in awe of how much help and guidance you receive, not only from the Holy Ghost, but from every other person around you. (Including your companion).

Speaking of companions...I have failed to mention mine. She is wonderful. We may be complete opposites but we were put together for a reason. (We did figure out that we both have a love for Doris Day, my good ol' Calamity Jane). Sometimes I feel like Calamity Jane! I like to call her Sorella Rossi (Row-see). I also HAVE to call her that, but it is all the same. I actually am very lucky because...she speaks some Italian as well! Her father is Italian (from Florence), her mom served her mission in Catania, her brother served his mission in Rome and now she is off to Milan! Just a cute little Mormon Italian family! She teaches me something new everyday... So thank you Sorella Rossi!

And now for the game of favorites:
1. The older district goes to Italy, actually they are on their way! (I am sad for them to leave, but they make the whole experience real!)
2. Bonding with all the Italian missionaries. I am so privileged to be part of such a remarkable group.
3. Pretending I am Ramsey when I run 5 days a week. Well wishing I was him...
4. Having a vacuum cleaner right outside my residence room named Flo.
5. Getting a good game of cats-cradle going with surrounding missionaries waiting for Sunday movies to begin.
6. Meeting sister missionaries who are already my best friends.
7. Nightly dance parties with Sorella Nelson (she is serving in Rome, but is my absolute favorite)
8. The truly inspired teachers who share so much love and support.
9. The countless familiar faces I see daily (I swear, everywhere I turn is someone I know. I am starting to annoy my poor patient companions because sometimes I get so caught up in conversations). The joy of living in Provo for nearly 3 years.
10. My sudden bursts of energy that come right before bed time.
11. Hearing about the great things going on at home!
12. Bribing all other missionaries to be my friends with delicious cookies from wonderful friends and their Mothers and with delicious looking Raspberry Rolls. Thank you for the help!
13. Missionary hugs, which actually I still find to be the oddest/sort of uncomfortable things. I will explain: You go for a high five but stop briefly upon hitting hands, let me emphasize briefly, to wrap your thumb around the hand. (Again let me emphasize briefly.)
14. Praying every moment of your life, and always receiving answers as long as you pray in faith. (Keep that in mind).
15. Finding my motto and attempting to apply it all day everyday. Here it is: (Mosiah 3:19) "For the natural man is an enemy to God and has been from the fall of Adam and will be, forever and ever, unless he yields to the enticings of the holy spirit, and putteth off the natural man and becometh as a saint through the atonement of Christ the Lord, and becometh as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things, which the lord seeth fit to inflict upon him, even as a child doth submit to his father."

I wish time was endless (in this temporal sense) so I could go on forever. Thank you for your love!

You rock, rock!
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

To forget

2009-01-20T19:40:00.004-07:00

Erase the days, erase the hour, erase any conception of the world. (Except for the blinking time in the corner of my screen counting down from 30) Time is flying already and I can not believe what two weeks has done for me, or to me. I suppose I should mention this very important day in the history of America. It is so strange how the world keeps moving while I have no idea what is going on. So here is to Barack Obama and the new Presidency. I am so grateful for the land of the free and the home of the brave. The United States of America is absolutely a country founded through the power of our Heavenly Father and is absolutely a country that I am blessed to live in. Of course I am going to yet another wonderful country, Italy, for 16 months but I love America and appreciate all that we have experienced through living here. (And, no, it is not always easy.)

I have been thinking a lot about what I am doing, what I have done, and what I will be doing in the future. It is overwhelming sometimes to think about what I have the opportunity to do at this moment in time, but then I remember how much love and support I have at home and more importantly that I am being qualified for the work as we speak. So much has happened in the past week that gets me considering all the blessings I have received. First of all my very first devotional last Tuesday was given by Jeffrey R Holland, who need I say is a rock, a power house, a whatever you want to call someone of wonder. Of course being an Apostle of the Lord requires you being strong, knowledgable, and humble, but this man taught me more in an hour than I would have learned in a week outside the MTC. There were moments I was pretty sure he was speaking just to me. I hope that because of him and the words he spoke and the words that the spirit spoke to me I will be a much better missionary. Thank you Elder Jeffrey R. Holland.

Every night it is tradition for the Italian Sorelle to get together and have a circle of gratitude. One night last week while sharing our thoughts a sister walked in, Sister Yang, and asked if she could share with us a message of tithing in English. I was so excited to hear what she had to say...she hardly struggled with words and bore one of the greatest testimonies I have ever heard. She came in nervous, and once she started to speak I could tell that her confidence changed through her strong testimony. She is the only member of the Church in her family and her parents were not supportive of sending her on her mission. They have now softened their hearts, but to hear her struggles and faith made me appreciate all that I have received that much more. I am grateful for Sister Yang, a girl from Taiwan, a girl who helped me to grow. I love her.

I do not want to forget to mention how fun it is focusing on the principles of the Gospel, applying and then reapplying them to my life, and loving it. There is something about reading the scriptures and taking every verse and trying to find a way that it fits into your life, or your future investigators life, or your brothers life, or moms, dads, sisters, friends, etc. This is something that I believe has kept me moving. Here in the MTC, it may come to you as a surprise, you do get tired and you do want to fall asleep. BUT, "I will go, I will do, the things the Lord commands. I know He will provide a way, He wants me to obey." Italian is the most beautiful language. I love learning it every day. I love messing up. I love getting nervous to talk to the "seasoned" missionaries. I love my district and the bonds we have already formed. I am partial to the Italian Anziani and Sorelle, but I love them all. I love my teachers and their knowledge, support, excitement, and love. I love every missionary here. I love being a missionary. I love love. I hate not being able to say 'I love you' to everyone I meet like I used to. But here it is, I LOVE YOU!

Vi Voglio Bene,
Sorella Frederique Stone Carroll

Let us begin

2009-01-13T22:31:00.001-07:00

I wake up, go to breakfast, go to class, go to lunch, go to class, go to dinner, go to class, go to bed. Intermingled everyonce in a while is a little gym time and a preparation day. In the matter of a week, my life has become someone elses. (literally). I never thought I could do so much in a day, so welcome to the Missionary Training Center.

We often refer to Disneyland as the happiest place on earth, but even then there are children screaming, people complaining, you get the gist. Here in this place of abbreviations (MTC, TRC, RC, MDT ......) is where the happiness is. Nuzzeled in Provo. What a wonderful place to be. If you are searching for happiness, just come on over to the mission side of life.

I may or may not have asked myself a couple of times what all these 19 year old boys, 21 year old girls (I use boys and girls for a reason) are doing. The majority of the world is out of sight and I have yet to see a frown. Maybe everyone is really good at hiding their true feelings, but I have an incling that really, everyone is the happiest they have ever been. This is not to say preparing for a mission is easy, because in the matter of a week I have already had some struggles, but it is the best thing to be doing and so we are happy. There it is.

One would usually find my daily schedule tedious or boring but I find it just the opposite. At some point in my life I might have dreaded so much structure, but I couldn't be more grateful. If I didn't have a plan everyday I would wander physically and mentally wondering "what in the world?"

To be honest (because this is what we are supposed to be doing, being honest) I probably have nothing more to say than that I am happy. Possibly the happiest I have been in my entire life. Mom, Dad, family, friends, of course I have been happy with you...but this experience has built upon those joys and made them that much better. I write a thank you to all who got me here. Thank you.

At that, I will share some new "things" I have begun. I was introduced to playing the game of favorites. Obviously this is not new to me, but picking favorites has been something that has kept me entertained. Here are my favorites of the week:
1. Having a sweet farewell with my parents
2. Meeting my companion
3. Realizing how amazing every Italy called missionary is. I am still astounded by the testimonies of these, what seem like, kids.
4. Seeing my brother. Although we have opposite schedules I get so happy to see him, even if it is from across the way.
5. Baby hamsters, aka Chicken Cordon Bleu. I have not partaken, but I am reminded of those who refer to them as the hamsters.
6. The sister who annouced that she plays favorites and helped me to play favorites.
7. Doing my laundry.
8. Laughing at a joke that would be foreign outside the mission life.
9. Having an australian "mate" in my district.
10. Having a district that has become my family.
11. Saying "Grazie" and english speaking missionaries responding with de nada. (Like I was speaking spanish)
12. Learning the Austrailian way of saying something is "tight". In case you were wondering it is "Sweet As" which often sounds like a swear word, but completely not meant to be.
13. Being pressured to write a whole e-mail in the matter of minutes.
14. Seeing so many familiar faces.
15. Being a missionary.

Life is beautiful. Take everything you are given with love and do what you can. Thank you for this opportunity. I love you all. I am so lucky to have so much support.

As the clock counts down on this computer I can't believe how much more I want to tell you. I will get better at writing letters but until then. All is well.

a year in the life...

2008-12-24T20:55:00.002-07:00

of the Carroll Family. (You all know the silly, "Let me update you on my family and tell you how great we all are.")

This was the christmas card this year. Carroll adventures.

MERRIEST CHRISTMAS!