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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