Where in the world is Sister Nay...

I AM IN CHIANG MAI!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Honestly? Who would have ever thought? I can frankly tell you I was outta here for sure. There was no way I'd be blessed enough to be in Chiang Mai for another 6 weeks, making it 6 months total. That does not happen. But gratefully, it did for me! That is my number one blessing and miracle of the week. I am SO excited to see the miracles and continue to work with these people. OH MY WORD I am so grateful.

So, it was a good Thanksgiving, from what it sounds like! Just so you know, it was just as great (or better) halfway across the world. :) Haha, just kidding, know that you were all missed terribly, and I was thinking of you constantly. I am so glad everyone had a great time! We were lucky enough to have 2 farang ladies from Burleigh, ID and Logan, UT that are in the branch, and invited us over for dinner (see the attached picture). They have a fly fishing store here in Chiang Mai, which was originally in Logan (called "Rainy's", if you've ever heard of it. Here in Thailand it's called Streamworks). Anyway, they're really cute, unmarried ladies that come live here for 9 or 10 months out of the year, and just came to Chiang Mai last week or so. They had a full on Thanksgiving feast.........turkey and all. AH I thought it would be quite a while before I had food like that again, it was so delicious. I never thought turkey would taste so good!

Yes, Sister Harris and I are still together, which is another blessing. We're really hitting our stride together, and seeing some amazing miracles. AMAZING. I know that when we stop to look at the miracles and blessings in our lives, we still see more and more miracles/blessing come about. I have seen that in my life this past week! I know that joy and blessings can always be found amidst trials. ALWAYS. This mission is not the easiest thing I've ever done, I'll be the first to say it. But honestly? It is the greatest miracle of my life. All I have learned up to this point is all being put to the test as I'm serving a full-time mission. I am grateful for the opportunity to stop and think of my blessings this Thanksgiving holiday--even if Thanksgiving in Thailand doesn't really exist! We still went to Bangkok to renew Sister Harris' visa, so as I sat on the 10 hour bus ride Thanksgiving evening, I had plenty of time to think of each of you and the blessing you are in my life. I miss you like crazy every single day, but just the thought of you gives me strenght. Thank you!

Emmer, that picture you sent of Blake in his little elephant shirt--so cute! Plus it's an elephant shirt! :) GO THAILAND! And Manda, the story of Shelby pulling lint out of her toes and saying, "Snow!" is a hit with my investigators, haha. I have a picture of Shelby in my thai scriptures, and everytime someone sees it they freak out. Ha, they think she is ADORABLE, rightly so. But I told on of my investigators that story, and everytime she sees Shelb's picture she laughs so hard, and says, "Hema!" which is snow in Thai. She wants to meet her! :) Tell her I think she's "wunnerful." And Madison Kate Ashley--I'm sorry I missed telling you Happy Birthday last week! I LOVE YOU and cannot believe you're 18!!!!!!!! You're an old fogey! I think you're wonderful and beautiful, and know that I'm praying for you. :)

We taught Kung yesterday, who is incredible. As we explained the Restoration, we asked, "What would this mean for you personally if this really happened?" She said after thinking for a while, "It would mean God still cares for me, that He loves me, and wants me to have all the happiness in the world..." This woman is more prepared than I can express. We are running into several people like this, especially this past week. It's insane the mirackes we're seeing. I feel like Sister Harris and I are either figuring out this missionary thing, or we're just dumb and blind enough to let Heavenly Father lead us along. I'm thinking it's probably the latter. I love my mission!

I also want to tell all of you who may be frustrated or struggling with progression (as I am, at times), the importance of looking at where you've come, not necessarily just where you are.I know that Heavenly Father is more concerned with how much we've grown than where we are in comparison with others. Comparison is something I've always struggled with, and it's been magnified on my mission. But I know that Heavenly Father loves me, and wants what is best for me personally! I am so grateful to serve Him with my WHOLE HEART! In all honestly? It's easier that way. We lose energy when we keep our personal, selfish desires in our hearts. It's much easier to just give it all to Him.

I love you, Family! Thank you for all the prayers, pictures, emails and support. I could not do this without you. I LOVE YOU and I hope you're all happy this holiday season...we have lots to be happy about. Make it a great week--and find someone to serve.

All My Love,

Sister Nay

P.S. "Those who bring sunshine to the lives of others cannot keep it from themselves." --James Berry

I Love Thailand.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING at home, and HAPPY ROYKATONG in Thailand! This week has been the RoyKaton festival here in Thailand...which means lots of fireworks, floating lanterns, and TONS of people. People come from all over Thailand, as well as over the world. It's fun...but at the same time, I like it when Chiang Mai is a little quieter. But that's ok! We've seen some amazing things here, and the culture never ceases to amaze me. I've attached a couple pictures of the statues they ahve around, it kind of reminds me of christmas lights. And today...? We rode an elephant! Yes, it was fun. Well, the first few minutes were fun, then after that...haha! It's pretty bumpy, and kind of scary. You're up super high, and they aren't the most graceful of walkers. But it was a blast! I figure we had to do it at least once while we were here. :) And there's another picture of a bunch of the lanterns in the sky....the pictures do NOT do it justice. It is the most beautful thing in the whole world! It reminds me of something off of Harry Potter, with all these paper floating lanterns littering the sky. I loved it! This is the coolest holiday in the world. We're going to teh church tonight to light off a couple of lanterns with the members. Fun!

As cool as the culture is here in Thailand...we've seen some other amazing things as far as our investigators. Ying has had a date for awhile, but everytime we bring up the subject of baptism, she asks us for time. "I just need time, please give me time...I'm trying to learn for myself..." So we've backed off the issue for a while. UNTIL the other day, we went to her house after she called us in tears about something that happened in her family. After we talked for awhile, and she calmed down, she said, "I've been thinking. I think that the sooner I am baptized, the better. I love Chistmas time, and it symbolizes the birth of the Savior...I think I want to start a new life in December, around Christmas time. Can I get baptized then?" Uh.....SURE! She has a date for baptism on the 12th of December, and will recieve the Holy Ghost the Sunday after, right before Chistmas. We are so excited. She's stellar.

And Thum and her daughter are preparing for the 12th as well! They have had a little bit of a journey getting to this point, but we feel they are ready, and she feels ready. I have a picture attached with me and the two of them on a song tao. I am so excited for them, as well! :) The 12th of December will be a great day, no matter where I am...

Yes. Transfers are this week. I'm not sure what's going to happen, and honestly--I am not too stressed about it! I am 50/50, I would love to stay and work with these people I know so well, but I would love to welcome a new opportunity of learning and growth. The Elders will call us tomorrow (Tues) with the news--I will keep you informed next week!

It sounds like all is going well at home this week, everyone is getting ready for Thanksgiving and festivities. I hope it's a blast! Know that I will be thinking of each and every single one of you during the Thanksgiving season...Thanksgiving Day we will be in Bangkok for transfer meeting. We're going down regardless if I move or not, because Sister Harris needs to renew her visa. So know that I will be thinking of you on a bus, Thursday morning (your time), and wishing you all the happiness in the world. I love you all so much. I must say that this year, I am the most grateful for my family and my knowledge of the gospel. I know that the gospel is where true happiness lies. I know that I am the happiest in my life when I abide by the precepts taught in the Book of Mormon, and most of all, when I share those lessons I learn with others. I know that everyone on earth is a Child of God, and I feel that love for these people every single day! Please don't get me wrong--this mission is far from a walk in the park, roses and laughter all the time. It is tough. But it is also the most rewarding experience I have ever had. I wish I could share every little detail with you...but that will have to wait until next year Thanksgiving time, when I SEE ALL OF YOU! It is not that far, family! Near future. :)
I love you so much! Thank you for being so supportive and loving, as always....you are the best family I could ever ask for. Until next week--keep on keepin' on! I LOVE YOU! Eat extra mashed potatoes and stuffing for me! Oh--and turkey. That stuff is unheard of 'round these parts... :)

All My Love,

Sister Nay

P.S. "Pray for spiritual sensitivity to recognize opportunities." --PMG

Floating Lanterns

It is the season of lights and floating lanterns here in Chiang Mai...it's beautful! I can't remember what it's called, but it's so beautiful. I guess the biggest night of it all is this Sunday--luckily before transfer meeting in case I leave! Look up some pictures online, I guess Chiang Mai is the center of it all, although it happens throughout Thailand. We've enjoyed seeing the decorations around. It makes it feel a little like the holiday season...thought I cannot fathom that Thanksgiving is next week. What are everyone's plans? I hope you all remember what you're grateful for this Thanksgiving season! We have loads to be grateful for.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SARAH ANN!!!!!!!!!!! I am so grateful you are my sister and one of my best friends. I love you so much, and hope that today has SO MUCH JOY and happiness that's true. I love you so much!

Miracles this week? Lots. Lots lots lots. More than I can write! We met with Dechaa and Nam, the family that we had dropped for a few weeks because their countenance had totally changed, and weren't progressing. This was the woman that cried bearing her testimony in Relief Society her 1st time to church! Well, we made an effort to go visit them, even though they've been totally closed off. We were able to meet with Nam, the mother...and honeslty, at first it was super awkward. We were pretty much scrambling to keept talking, because she wasn't saying much of anything, haha. We decided to sing a song for her, and the spirit instantly entered the room. Then my companion had the brilliant idea to whip out a picture of Lehi's Vision, her attn was caught. She was enthralled with everything we taught, and she slowly began to change into her old self. She started smiling and laughing, and the Spirit was so strong. Anyway, she committed to go to church, and the next day her whole family was there! It was amazing, and I know that the Holy Ghost truly softened her heart. Now let's just keep this train moving!

And Noi and Pong sell at a street called the "Walking Street" every Saturday and Sunday night. Sister Young and I decided to go, and while we were there eating her delicious food, 3 farang men came to their stand at 3 different times. All three of them had some tie to the gospel at some point in their lives, or lived in Utah, or previously studied with the missionaries. They noticed us sitting there and striked up a conversation with us. Well, Miss Noi has the fire brightly burning in her heart, began speaking with them as well (she speaks English really well). She said, "Oh, you ah Mohmon?! We ah Mohmon! Mohmon is de best kind of peoples...." and continued on. They soon corrected her and said that they were in fact, not mormon, just familiar with them. She would then ask, "Well, how long you stay here in Chiang Mai?" One man responded, "3 weeks." "Oh, well, den, dat will be plenty of time." She then looked at me slyly and nudged me in their direction. Hahahahahaa. Oh my heck, I love this couple more than words describe. They were familiar with the way Latter Day Saints work, and laughed at her antics. But it was so good to see her just open her heart and proclaim her beliefs to anyone and everyone! She is the sweetest of sweet people.

We had Zone Conference this past week, and I testify that when we go into a meeting, or study session, or any place the spirit will reside, with a question in our hearts, we will recieve an answer every time. I have no doubt. This has happened countless times on my mission and throughout my life, but I gain a firmer testimony of it every time it happens. No matter how specific, it is always answered! We had interviews afterwards, and I shared with President some thoughts I had been having the previous few weeks. He gave some counsel, that helped somewhat, but the last line of the interview struck me the most. He look me square in the face and said, "Sister Naegle, trust in the Lord and work your butt off." Haha, this gives you a little insight into what kind of man he is--I LOVE HIM. He is called of God to lead Thailand at this time.

The work continue forward. I am so grateful to be serving at this time. I have had some thoughts lately about change....I feel I have experienced some amazing things during my time in Thailand, but I don't feel I've changed as much as I am capable of changing. I want Heavenly Father to change me more. As I have studied and thought about this, I know that we will be able to change when we willingly give ourselves to the Savior. I have felt this inward battle in my heart for a long time now, with righteous desires pulling me in different directions. I have been selfish and keeping myself from the Lord! But the miracle? As I have prayed for understanding, I know that I will not be happy until I give everything to the Lord. EVERYTHING. Good or bad desires, happy or said, whatever it is--until that point, I will be withholding myself and the Lord will be unable to change me. I am nowhere near perfect in this arena, but it is at least come to my attention and I can start learning more. I want this mission and experience to CHANGE ME....not just experience it, but really BECOME a disciple of the Lord. Is that what you want? I testify that giving yourself completely to the Lord will eliminate any inward battles you have within your heart, and that the path with the Savior is, in fact, much easier than pursuing your own desires. I know it's possible to feel peace with it's all in the Lord's hands! I love you all, make it a great week!

All My Love,

Sister Nay

2 More!

Yes, Nok and Chae were both baptized yesterday. It was an eventful day, that's for sure. Sister Harris hadn't really done a baptism before, and Sister Young and I just had the one baptism before this. So yes, it was a bit of a hectic week trying to put everything together, that's for sure! But we made it all happen, and it was successful. They looked so beautiful. The best part of the story? The night before the baptism, Nok and I got talking. She has had a problem wearing a skirt to church for the LONGEST time, since we've been teaching her. She has not wanted to do it at all. Well, the Holy Ghost works miracles. The night before, she asked me, "Do I really need to wear a skirt?" All I said was, "It would be nice to show respect, but it isn't a commandment. You don't absolutely have to. How about I just bring a few tomorrow for you to try on before church starts. You don't have to, but just try. Deal?" She agreed!!! After the baptism, we all gathered in the sacrament meeting room and she sauntered in wearing a skirt. It was SO GREAT to see all the jaws drop, and President stand up to conduct, and say, "Nok, you look great!!" Haha, she was a bit uncomfortable, but she has a new skirt. She and I agreed this was a start of a new life for her. :) Ah I love being a missionary.

Last night we went for dinner at Pong and Noi's with Sister Young and her parents. It was fun to see them! We had so many people out there. After we all gathered for a picture, they all got out the hymn books and started singing, "God Be With You Til We Meet Again." It turned out that I was in front from taking the last picture, and Sister Young was standing by me filming. Oh man, family....I cannot even begin to express the love in my heart for these people. I thought it was going to jump right out of my chest! By the 3rd verse I was in tears, along with Sister Young. All I could do was put my arm around her and just watch these incredible people sing. I love the Thai people--especially this branch in Chiang Mai. They are amazing members, and have changed my life.

Today was amazing....we rode our bikes up in the mountains just to look around, and found a trail head. We heard there was a neat wat up there, so we decided to check it out. I just need to say I am so grateful Sister Harris is so willing to embark on these adventures with me, even if it's not really her thing. She even rides her bike alongside me in the morning so I can run! She's amazing, I love her. Anyway, we headed into the jungle of Thailand, and about 45 minutes in we came upon the wat--in the middle of the jungle, with a view and a waterfall! HELLO?!?! It was so gorgeous! I'll attach a couple pictures of it. We packed a little lunch, as well, and just sat on the rocks next to the waterfall, looking out over the towering trees of the jungle and Chiang Mai in the distance. Yes. Thailand is incredible.

This past week has been interesting...and hard. We had days when we'd come home exhausted after 8 lessons, then the next day we struggled getting 2 lessons. It was rough, and lots of up and downs. But I have grown a lot this week, as well. Sometimes another year (less than!) seems like an eternity, but I also know this is what I need to be doing at this time of my life. I want to thank you for the prayers, and fasting that any of you have taken part of. Last week was HARD. Really, really hard, I need to be honest. But yesterday I definitely feel like I came out on top. My heart is so full of love for these people. Thank you to all who have expressed testimonies that you know I need to be here--because sometimes I don't know if I'm supposed to be here! But I am, and I'm fighting throught the good, bad and wonderful. I love it all. THANK YOU!!!!!!

Well, my dears, time to sign off. I hope all is well, and that you're loving life. I know that I am here in Chiang Mai! It is heaven on earth. I just need my family here, and it's basically the celestial kingdom. :) Haha. Make it a great week!!

All My Love,

Sister Naegle

P.S. Grandma Rosie, Mom, and Sar, THANK YOU for your packages! I cannot tell you how much we have appreciated the Halloween candy this week--Thai food is delicious, but Thai candy is another story.....THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!! I love you!
P.S.S. No quote this week--sorry! I didn't plan ahead! :) Find one for your own...

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