{Mission Preparation Round 2}

What's up my homies?

Continued levels of preparation.

Today's focus: study: language.

There is SO much out there to study. Let's narrow it down by focusing on language!

STUDY: LANGUAGE

So I'm going Spanish speaking, right?

Here's some helpful hints on language study:

*Consistency!

Be consistent in your study. It helps. A LOT.

*Use what you know!

I took 2ish years of Spanish in high school. 

There's a lot I don't remember, but the words I have been using are solid!

Once you learn the word for door (la puerta, in case you wondered) substitute it!

It might feel and sound awkward at first, but your family/roommates will learn with you and be patient (hopefully).

*Duolingo

This is the best app I have found to learn a language. It's simple, it's free, it doesn't take long. 

Use this. And again, be consistent in using it!!

*Watch movies!

I have spent the last two weeks watching every movie and show in Spanish with Spanish subtitles. 

This works especially well if you already know the story. You begin connecting words and ideas. 

Disney movies have been my personal favorite. 

The antagonist is almost always more sassy in Spanish. It's hilarious.

*Maybe watch Dora?
If you really don't feel comfortable and confident with your Spanish, Dora is always there to help.

Who knows? Maybe you'll be able to help her find the Big Red Hill.

Like anything you are trying to learn, consistency, practice, and hard work are what it takes.


xo Hugs and Kisses xo
Until next time,

Hermana Morris 

{Mission Preparation Round 1}

Heya friends!
As you might assume, an 18 month trip to somewhere very different from home might take quite a bit of preparation.


The inspiration for the name of this blog came from this wonderful picture.
Not only is it hilarious, it is completely applicable.

I plan on writing some quick preparation tips every Monday until I leave.
Today's focus is on packing your bags!! And shopping!!

SHOPPING/PACKING
When you open your call packet, you will see a wonderful packing list. 

It seems fairly complete until you start itemizing the list on a separate paper.

You then realize how much you have to fit into 2 suitcases.

Crap.

But really there's a lot you have to get in there.

Skirts, blouses, shoes, make up, tampons (yeah... you need those), pillow, sweaters, scarves, jewelry, towels (basically just bring your whole bathroom), and that's just getting started.

For a shopper and clothes lover, I think this is going to be a trial.

My biggest tips, especially for missionaries going to under-developed countries are these:

*Dark colored skirts - Expect to get dirty
*Long, full skirts - I won't have a bike, but it's never bad to be extra covered
*DI + Thrift stores! Buy used!! It's cheaper. It's more efficient. It's green (yay!).
*TRY IT ON - It make look long enough online. It's not.
*Your mom's opinion really does matter - She's lived longer. Take her word for it.
*Check reviews and Pinterest - people give honest, helpful opinions!

Like any trip, this will take research, time, physical preparation, spiritual encouragement, and some adjusting. You'll get there. Be patient with yourself.

More shopping and packing tips to come. Stay tuned.

xo Hugs and Kisses xo
Until next time,

Hermana Morris 

Called to Serve

My name is Devere Morris, and welcome to my blog!

I am a Mormon! I am from Utah. 

I love my church and I love my Savior, Jesus Christ!

I have been called to serve as a missionary in the Peru Huancayo Mission!

I report to the Lima Peru Missionary Training Center on May 5th, 2015.

I will be speaking Spanish!

You can tell I was quite excited to have found my mission call in the mailbox. 

I received my call on January 30th, 2015.

I was surrounded by friends, family, and loved ones as I ripped open the envelope and began to read.

"Dear Sister Morris,

You are hereby called to serve as a missionary of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 

You are assigned to labor in the Peru Huancayo Mission. 

It is anticipated that you will serve for a period of 18 months. 

You should report to the Peru Missionary Training Center on Tuesday May 5th, 2015.

You will prepare to teach the gospel in the Spanish language."

I testify that there is nowhere else I would rather be for these 18 months.

I love it there already and I haven't even left yet.

I found this picture and 

A. died laughing and 

B. knew that this picture was too perfect to pass up. 

Peru is full of llamas and alpacas and I am so very excited. 

I am simply a humble servant of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 

I want to bring as many unto Him as will come.

xo Hugs and Kisses xo

Until next time,

Hermana Morris