Week 69: "Merry Christmas Elder Brown"

Okay so I know I said that this week would be a normal email. It's not. Life changes haha. We are headed to the temple tomorrow and as such are going to Portsmouth tonight so we don't have to travel as far tomorrow. Also it's been a crazy afternoon because the buses were delayed and so we missed the boat we wanted and now we are sitting here waiting for the hovercraft at quarter to five. So yeah it's been a bit hectic.

This last week has been good in many ways and not so good in many ways. We've helped a lot of people out this week, which I always love, but we having been having a bit of a rough patch in terms of actually meeting people who are interested in talking to us. I'm not going to lie and say it hasn't gotten me a bit down at times, but Elder Brown and I have made some good plans to combat that this week. 

Speaking of, my preparation day is Wednesday next week so this will be my last email before Christmas. Merry Christmas everyone :-) remember to focus on Christ and just loving others. 

One of the definite highlights of this week was friday. We had the chance to go to Epsom to meet up with loads of other missionaries and sing carols in a shopping centre there. I made the mistake of responding yes to the group leader's inquiry of who can conduct music and was made voluntary choir director. It went alright haha. My voice was dead by the end though. We were singing for three hours straight. But it was a blast. I just felt such a love for my Saviour as I sang of His birth and His life. I love Him so much and love that I get to serve Him this time of year. It took 4 hours to get back and we were knackered but it was worth it. 

I just want to say thank you for all the love and support you've given me and for everything you have done to support me and my family. It means the world to me. I hope that you find peace and joy this holiday season and that the love of God can fill your hearts. Know that I am being taken care of and am excited for the days ahead. I love you all and have a merry Christmas :-)

British word of the week: bits - it's used quite a bit to talk about any and every thing. 

British food of the week: mulled wine - it's not actual wine, but like a hot fruit drink. It's brilliant. 

Companion Comic: we helped a family decorate for Christmas this morning and they asked elder Brown his first name. When he told him it was Indiana, the guy said "how'd your parents get a name like that, are they hippies or something?" I love the English 

Scripture of the week : D&C 53

I love you all loads and I will send pics soon. 

Love, Elder McKinley


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