Time is too short!--Written February 4th

Dear Family,

         Today is Greg Casey's Birthday and so we snuck over early this morning when we went out for our run and put notes all over his door and balloons on his car. We ran into them this morning and they were on their way out. He pulled over to thank us and said, "we are on our way over to that church book store you told us about and then we are going to the Temple." Nothing could have been better than to see him, ON HIS BIRTHDAY, going to go spend some time with his wife at the Temple. So precious. I LOVEEEEEE the Casey’s!!!!! There is nothing better than to see people make good choices that truly will bring them joy.

         This week has been great! We had our interviews with President Weston and it’s always good to see him. A couple weeks ago we got an envelope in the mail that had a few papers I needed to fill out before my final interview with the Mission President. There is one page that has a few sections to write about the "growth" you've made on your mission. (Companions. Areas. Etc.) I had a few clerical questions for President Weston and after he answered my question he said. "But you know what Sister Mitchell? I could even fill it out for you." He looked at me

knowingly and related a few experience I have had on my mission. He named off a few of my companions, by name, and tears started to fill my eyes as I thought about all that they have taught me. I love my mission. I love the Lord. I am thankful for the ways in which I have come to know Him better through serving those around me. The people here in California have taught me more than I think I could have ever learned on my own.

         I am grateful to have worked so closely with President Weston over this past year and a half. He truly is an inspired man. There is a new family we are meeting with. The wife is a member of the church and her husband is Catholic. They are a young couple and such wonderful people. President Weston will actually be coming with us to one of their lessons this week! Things are going great here in the Auburn 1^st Ward. We are still working hard and seeing lots of miracles. This week was filled with a lot of door knocking and a lot of finding. We have met so many incredible people! It really is a "different" place here in Auburn. It’s hard to describe. But the people love each other here. They are good neighbors and are always friendly to those around them. I am pretty close to being out of time today but I hope you know I love you and look forward to seeing you! I hope all is well at home!

Love,

Sister Mitchell