Kim's First Area in Germany - Freiberg

Freiberg is a beautiful city with a temple. The members are so excited to have such outgoing sister missionaries to join them in their efforts to share the gospel. Kimberly's trainer is Sister Tasha Singer. I discovered her missionary blog the day Kim got her call and I was so impressed with her testimony and faith. Her writings revealed precious experiences sharing testimony, and how much she loves serving in the Berlin mission. I consider it a tender mercy that Tasha was chosen to show Kimberly how to become a successful missionary in Germany . Their shared experiences sharing faith are blessing lives. Together they have devoted hearts, incredible enthusiasm for the gospel, and strong faith that inspires. Kim's weekly e-mails are full of love and optimism. Kasandra has posted them at sisterkimberlyrasmussen.blogspot.com.

Hi Kimberly Sweetheart Sister Rasmussen the Studying Maniac, Aren't you so glad you are obedient when you are doing things that make you more knowledgeable in the gospel, more fit, more prepared to share your testimony, more outgoing (if that is possible), more organized, more modest, more reflective, more prayerful, more humble, and more wise? I am so impressed by all you are commitment to learning and hope you know how much your achievements in self-discipline and spirituality are having on us. We are trying harder to do what we are doing to the best of our ability to be more like you. Yesterday BT and I had an amazing visit with Mr. T. I stayed about 50 minutes, T was there almost two hours. The wisdom and sincerity that he shared has made a deep impression on both of us. In a nutshell: WORK - to be an artist you have to constantly work on your craft even though you need to do menial jobs to get by know that as long as you are spending your spare time creating, becoming, giving through your art you will be happy. If you are critical, lazy, doubtful, you will be miserable. HUMILITY - you have to be vulnerable and SERVICE - always remember that your art will be good if it is not about you. Prepare your art to give your audience something they will like. Mr. T gave an example of his passion for Shakespeare, masks, and poetry - things the average person doesn't really like. His father a rancher from Southern Utah sitting in the audience experiences wonder, new ways of thinking, unexpected feelings that change old perceptions and bring new relevance through story so that even the hardest nut to crack begins to open to that media even just a little and is grateful for having had the experience. I couldn't help but think of you preparing for missionary service as your art. The living room, park, pulpit is your stage. Your message will be directed toward the needs of your particular investigator. As you ponder and prepare for the opportunity to teach with hard work, humility, and lack of self-interest, you too will find success. Another aspect of an artist's life Mr. T mentioned is the kind of people BT needs to surround himself with. Lazy, critical, doubting influences will stifle creativity and waste precious time. Finding committed artists who work hard with pure motives will create an atmosphere of synergy that will propel the group to new heights. Does that sound like the MTC or what? I Mr. T, "Big-T has not shut the door on the possibility of going on a mission. How would that affect his goal of becoming an artist?" He responded that it would add to his emotional maturity and not hold him back in achieving his potential at all. He said it would be hard, and talked of serving in New Zealand where at first he was disgusted by the dirty households and children climbing all over him, but by the end he looked forward to the tickle wars and would wipe a kid's nose with his tie. Oh Kimberly, thank you for your prayers and the great love you have shared with him especially over the last few months. I think it is becoming clearer now who really has his best interest in mind. Mr. T gave BT advice about whose voices to trust as he walks this path of the artist and reassured him that he (Mr. T) would always be there for him. The other trusted source is A S the woman who plays his mother in Cricketless. I am working on helping T have access to the still small voice of the Holy Ghost. Finding artists T respects who can testify of that source of inspiration like Brickey or Capener, would be amazing. You, M A, and Ben were mentioned by name in his family prayer last night. I know your voices are also trusted sources of inspiration for him even though he doesn't like being preached to. Stories of your experiences show how you are living what you believe and make the testimony real. I think that's what he meant when he told President T that you live the gospel with more integrity than anyone he has ever known. He has seen what a strength and a light the gospel has been for you. He is gradually making a space in his mind and heart for that strength and light to grow in him. Isn't it interesting that the book of Mormon is about the constant struggle of the believers and the non-believers. The reader gets to imagine through those words what it might have been like to be on either side. In Helaman 16 Samuel the Lamanite is on the wall trying to warn the people of their sure destruction at the Savior's coming if they do not repent. Those who believed were ready to confess their sins and be baptized by Nephi. Many did not believe and tried to shoot Samuel with arrows and hit him with stones. He was protected by the Holy Ghost and not one hit him. Others were converted by that miracle and came to Nephi to repent and be baptized. We know the Savior is coming. Miracles through the Holy Ghost are happening all around us - through missionaries like you, BW, JD, and many other young people who change their lives from being me-centered to Thee-centered and serving for what must seem like eternity in your young lives. Learning to take each day as a gift, a chance to follow the spirit and accomplish whatever tasks the mission rules or the spirit direct. Then come the blessings and the joy of serving the Lord, changing lives, and preparing world to again receive the Savior. We pray for your success, safety, and happiness. We are sure you fill the lives of those around you with love and laughter not allowing room for discouragement or doubt but standing in the light strong and firm, ready to follow the Master. Thanks for blessing our lives with your constant love and caring. Tchuss for now, -Mom

Dear Kim
Thanks for your patience as we gather your requests. The nice thing about having you on a spiritual high is that your patience is probably high too so you are not made at the delay in some of your requests. I hope your exercising continues to bring you rewards. I have dropped a few pounds since walking early in the morning and I am eating less and feeling more energy. All that plus the spiritual benefit of meditating while I walk and dipping into the scriptures just before writing to you makes this new part of my day my favorite.

Today we walked around Hidden Oaks and I pretended I was walking the streets of London. Remember those quaint neighborhoods we went through on our way to Harrods after watching the changing of the guard? The brightly painted doors, flower boxes, brass handles and embassy flags made me wonder what it would be like to live there. But the same is true of beautiful neighborhoods here. I just imagine the quaint English accent and taking time for tea and I am back in that wonderland we visited. I think that is what it will be like for you in Germany. You will have to pinch yourself that you really live among such a quaint and caring people who take care of their yards and make time for deep relationships. I think you will love the yogurt.

I seem to need inspiration from Helaman. He was so faithful. Even with much contention in the land he fulled the judgement-seat with justice and equity;...he did observe to keep the statutes, judgements, and commandments of God. He did that which was right in the sight of God continually; he did walk after the ways of his father, insomuch that he did prosper in the land. His two sons, Nephi and Lehi began to grow up unto the Lord.

Big-T and K-Baby are the children I am focusing on this week. BT is responding very well so far to the plan of action - making decisions about his future career in the arts, planning for school, getting a bookstore job, and living the gospel more fully. He seems truly grateful for guidance, structure and advice on how to set and achieve goals. He was the star of the bonfire at Draper Park last night. Made it home at a reasonable time, and happy it seems. I am hoping he recorded on the tape before he fell asleep last night so we can get it to you ASAP!

KB pushes toward independence, struggles to exert effort and real focus in completing responsibilities with a glad heart. She craves time with her friends, opportunities to impress boys, and sleepovers. I am trying to find a balance between helping her respect rules, responsibility, and form and attitude of gratitude rather than a right to request without restraint. Anyway, she still loves her family very much and wants to please us. Tweenagers are an interesting and impressionable breed.

What a marvelous reward for righteousness - to have your children grow up unto the Lord. I am so grateful to you for your role in helping all of us draw nearer to the Lord as we strive to live the gospel more fully. How great is the pull of media, consumerism, popularity, and self-gratification. How full of light and peace are the rewards of the temple, the sacrament, study and pondering the marvelous blessings of the gospel we have been given. Not to be seen of men, but to be more in line with God for the sheer joy of feeling the presence of the Holy Ghost blessing our efforts.

May that special gift be yours as you continue in your quest to understand more of the beauties of the gospel and how to proclaim truth in the German language.

We adore and admire you with all our hearts!
Love,
-Mom

Hey Sista Kimba,

So our first experience with the tape thing wasn't as rewarding as I had hoped. It was great hearing your voice and your enthusiasm about all your new peeps and although we are glad you are settled and well on your way enjoying the experience somehow in all the voices and laughing we had a hard time following "train of thought." We ended up listening just before family prayer so we weren't doing other things while we were listening and decided to save the rest for later. Then we decided to try taping for you starting with the 'together forever 1, ,3' and when it was my turn to say stuff they all laughed at me for how I was doing it. Oh brother! That's what I get for living with a bunch of blues. Well anyway, I like thinking of the tape as a phone so I when I have a turn to talk (in privacy to save my self esteem) I will be having a one sided conversation with you. Dad likes having the tape be in on a group conversation and that is fun too but I guess I'm not at that level yet. Since we didn't finish your tape our ours yet it might be next Monday before we get around to sending it back. This job of staying tight with your missionary is kinda complicated. I watched in awe as you did it with Ben. Anticipating the weekly e-mail, sending off letters and packages, picking out special gifts and hoping he likes what you send. Luckily I have your father who is just like you in that area so I'm able to let him handle it. I miss hearing about BW's experiences with you.

I am so grateful for this time I have in summer to rejuvenate, set some new goals, and have time to reach higher in various areas of my life. One big focus right now is your brother Big-T. Since I go to girls camp next week I am trying to dedicate this week to helping him get on top of a few things like finding a direction and plan for his life these next few months. I am hoping to get some good heart to heart talks in about using the spirit to help guide your life. I am making health related appointments and scheduling meetings with important people he respects to share their decision making stories from when they were his age, and their perspective on choosing a career in the arts in 2010. Of course I will emphasize keeping the gospel at the center and hope Big-T will agree that making his plans within the framework of the church and establishing an eternal family will bring him the greatest joy. I pray that his maturity in that long-term vision of his life will kick in soon so he can realize the blessings of obedience are waiting for him now.

Sis-K is OFF to lake Powell this week and girls camp the next so I don't have to work on her too much (modest swimwear seems to be our biggest source of contention). She still struggles keeping her room straight with her huge variety of outfits she just can't part with, but her dedication to her responsibilities at camp has been impressive. She is a lite and has come up with a lot of creative fun ideas to celebrate each young woman and help her feel loved. The ward boys are gaa gaa for her so she is delighted.

K-baby loves playing night games and dressing all hip dipping into Sis-K's wardrobe. She wears a different hat every day for that sheik look. She struggles getting going in the mornings but I am firm about chores, practicing, neat room, and reading before she moves into her free time of the day. Luckily she loves me enough to cooperate without complaining much.

Isn't being a mom the greatest!!! Actually I could not ask for more beautiful, adoring, talented, caring children than you four. It's just that parenting is a big responsibility with lots of variables. I pray that the Lord will be with me at this crucial time in our lives; that our love will grow, and that we will allow the spirit to influence, motivate, and inspire us along the way. We have been blessed with so much!!!

Kim I know you want photos. I have a post-it note on my e-mail desktop of things to gather for you. I realize that immunizations is at the top of the list. The problem we have is that you are over 18 so we need to show your drivers license and have you pick the records up in person. What a pickle we are in. I will try calling the MTC to find out what the status is. Maybe you will need more shots there:)

I had a visiting teaching appointment this morning and shared a message about how sacred and miraculous our bodies are. Sacred because of the price paid through the Savior's atonement and because they are to house our spirits which are holy as well as the Holy Ghost. May we all take good care of our bodies and respect the great gift it is to have a body. Learning to control and care for it is a life-long quest best met by following the Lord's example. Thank you for emulating that and inspiring us to enjoy the blessings of doing likewise.

Pippin and I walked the Porter Rockwell trail at about 8:00 this morning. Dad's anxiety got the best of him so we'll walk together tonight. I was up super late working on a missionary reunion invitation. Now it's off to make a productive afternoon out of this day. I guess Elder Hunt flies out for Singapore today. What broadening experiences await him. I'm so glad you two had some fun times in the MTC together. The Hunts are a great family I hope we get to enjoy a fun friendship with for many years to come.

Love to you from your home base in Sandy where we are so proud of our German missionary!!!
Hugs & Kisses,
-Mom

Hey Kim,

Happy Greg's Birthday! My baby brother is 39 years old today and he got to go to a fun water park with his family. I just can't imagine a greater joy than being a part of a loving family like ours and his. Yes it is tiring at times but oh how deep is the love that grows through every season, time of life, and all the ups and downs. We are so blessed!

I went to Brooke B's bridal shower today and Brittany said her papers are in, so the Wednesday of girls camp - July 21st she should get it. I just realized I won't be able to write any dear elders that week. Paper letters will have to do. Both girls are so energized and excited about these two wonderful events. Unfortunately Brooke was very late for her own shower. She went with fiancee Grant early in the morning to get a triathlon started and due to an accident on the freeway got stuck in traffic. Luckily Brittany was at the shower, glowing like you did as a perspective missionary, and she filled us in on all the juicy details of how they met. I told her maybe Brooke might have to give the farewell for her to make them even. Just kidding!!! I know Brittany will do a dynamite job at her own farewell and Brooke will be her biggest fan. Lori of course is a little beside herself with these two events happening all at once but she is so thrilled for both girls.

I spent my anniversary Friday night in the baptistery of the Draper temple with eight of our Hidden Oaks young women including Kasandra. Of course I thought of you and the many times you and Natalie and your peeps went to do baptisms while you were anticipating your call and then - your "big girl recommend" let you into the precious parts of the temple. I can't imagine anyone appreciation the opportunity to receive her own endowment more than you did on that beautiful Saturday in March. Your desire to return often was evidence of how much it meant to you. Your valiant spirit connecting with the sacred and powerful covenants along with the closeness of the Holy Ghost seemed as living water to your thirsty soul. I read from the Bible that evening and found a scripture I had seen in the Brenda and Allan Baird home but never remembered running across on my own. It is in the the third epistle of John verse 4, " I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth." In this chapter he seems to be referring to truth as testimony, or "walking with God." I think in the halls, classrooms, and chapels of the MTC, you must be walking with God Kimberly. That is why you are so full of love for the Savior, your family, your colleagues, teachers, and the Germans you are yet to meet. You have submitted your will to the Father and now you feel a portion of the love he has for all of us. What a miracle! What a privilege to be your earthly mother. You are actually my sister too you know, and now I am looking up to you and the level of spirituality you are attaining. We are all so blessed for your willingness and readiness to serve.

Our love for you grows deeper as we share these tender feelings through letters. My mother said she teared up reading your e-mail at the level of love for the gospel and others you have developed. We all pray for you to continue in strength, courage, and charity as you use each day to the fullest. Your letters are like gold. Reading them makes us feel rich in the spirit!

I have this whole week to get caught up on things. Immunization records, addresses, jeans & t-shirts are all in the works.

Love and hugs to you sweetheart and #1 daughter of a couple still very much in love after 23 years! Whoo Whoo:)
-Mom

Dear Kimberly,

Old habits die hard. I just love this quiet morning time to write you. We received the SD card and tape yesterday, one day later than the other letters because the postage was wrong and there was no return address. The mail carrier paid the 85 cent difference and asked that we leave that amount in our mailbox today:) What fun to get those photos! I feels like we are there with you now. Sorry your jeans and t-shirts won't make it for today's p-day. We will get you more family photos soon too. I'm so glad the routines of each day are rewarding and you are surrounded by so many motivated dedicated elders and sisters. I know they are uplifted by your positive attitude too.

Pippin gets to come to art class today. She will be the model for the kids to try drawing a lion - maybe a baby lion. She is so obedient now and loves to cuddle. Hugs from Pippin to you!!!

You are part of a great latter-day army standing for the right. Thank you for staying strong and keeping the covenants you have made. What a foundation for the rest of your life you are establishing. May the spirit guide your thoughts as you prepare to serve and live the gospel to the fullest.

Love your eternally grateful mother,
Mom

Dear Sister Kimberly Danielle Rasmussen,

Another beautiful walk this morning with Pippin bouncing along beside, in front, and sometimes behind us, I am grateful to be able to walk and enjoy movement, this beautiful earth, and my eternal companion. I think besides the exercise, the unity we feel as we walk is as valuable as the momentum. Thoughts of our many blessings seem to flood our minds. We love our jobs, we have such an amazing family, and we have the gospel of Jesus Christ to keep it all in perspective. As we walk we contemplate the day and the future but not too much.

We attended fireworks in front of the Woodheads and Collettes last night and enjoyed the association of many ward members whom we admire. The children, especially Kara, had such a great time lighting the specially wrapped packages of fire art. Some of the dads were looking like children out there playing, advising, and delighting in the spectacle. Fortunately no one got hurt and the mess was cleaned up in no time.

Lots of people asked about you and our reports are always positive. We feel so blessed to have your example and faith lifting us as we meet the challenges that come our way. In Mormon 1:13 - 16 describes a time when the people were so wicked and rebelling against God that the Lord's beloved disciples were taken from them so miracles and healings did cease. There were no gifts from the Lord and the Holy Ghost did not come upon any because of their wickedness and unbelief. Even Mormon who had tasted and know of the goodness of Jesus wanted to preach unto the people but he was forbidden to preach unto the hardness of their hearts and the land was cursed for their sakes. Oh Kimberly, how fortunate we are to live in a time when we have disciples to preach to us and examples of faith and good works to follow. The land of Germany must also have people who are being prepared to receive this gospel or there would be no missionary work allowed. The mission field is a sacred place where the elect are gathered and those who hear the voice through you will receive their reward. I pray that you and I may not be discouraged by the ups and downs of sharing the gospel but rather nurture the faith within us as we prepare to strengthen the faith of those around us.

Thank you for your love and example of faith that is such a source of strength in my life!!
Love always,
Mom

To: Kim - Sister Rasmussen
From: Carrot (Kara)

Dear Kim,
I love you soooooooooo much!!!
I wish you were here right now with us.
But I'm sure you're having a BLAST over there.
I'm just eating watermelon and sitting around.

I've had a blast with my friends playing basketball in Sammy's backyard and running around. There is a new girl who moved into our neighborhood. Her name is Valarie. She is really nice and she's only ten. We watch Nepolian Dynomite and quote it all the time. Pippin is still as cute as ever. And so am I. One bummer, not really though, is that Jonah moved back into our neighborhood. He is taller, more annoying, and his voice is way low. And he still plays with Andrew.

We have had a lot of fun. Yesterday we had fireworks and dad bought forty dollars worth. I got to light them all, pretty much, but not in the finale.
Scott Woodhead lit a little firework and threw it in the middle of a group of teenagers, some of Kasandra's friends too.

We still have the German decorations up.We never stop thinking about 'cha.

Love you Kimmy!!!!
-Your favorite sister;)

Happy 4th of July Sister Rasmussen!!!

What a beautiful time of year this is. Pippin is so excited and happy these days. Our neighbor who walks her white dog just barely noticed how well behaved she has become. I got up and out this morning but not just to walk. I woke up in a bit of a panic because I suddenly remembered I accidentally left the hose running into the pool last night and had visions of it overflowing. I had to take Pippin out for a bit just to check on it. Fortunately for me, the pool guy who comes around in the early morning or the clubhouse security must have noticed it because the hose was turned off and all rolled up in its place. In that instance and many more times in my life I am so grateful we have others close by to pick up the slack, or the pieces we drop as we mosey along our way.

One reason I neglected to take care of the hose was that my friend A came over to hang out at about eight. I called her around seven just to see if she might enjoy some company. Dad was glad she had agreed to come so he could go back home and relax in his comfortable chair. I had envisioned both of us visiting with her but it worked out o.k. She had been going through some of her brother's things and some of her old memorabilia and was in a somber mood. Minutes before I called, she ran across a birthday card I had given her years ago that was signed in a tender way that made her so glad we had remained friends since study abroad in 1982. She brought it to the pool so I could read it. It did say that I hoped we could always remain friends and that she was such a special person. I was delighted to find out that I had always appreciated her friendship and hope to keep it up for many more years. Her birthday was near St. Patrick's Day - March 15th. She reminded me that your on the 17th was exactly one week after her missionary son Collin's on the 10th and that Jill C threw a double shower for both of the babies at her home. I kept thinking it was Big T and Katie who were celebrated but it was you and Col. JC has remained such a dear friend in both our lives. BT will hopefully write about it later today but he went out on a double date with K C Friday night. They joined McH and M S for dinner and a Real game. He said it was way fun. Thank you for believing in him so he could believe in himself.

Maybe you remember I told AB to just open the scriptures to a verse and let the spirit enlighten her? She couldn't wait to tell me what verse she turned to that night - Alma 40! It speaks of what happens to our spirits after we die. Andrea is hopeful that she has borne all she needs to bear losing loved ones for a long while. She has her tender moments but is able to laugh and remember the good times. I hope I can continue to be inspired to reach out and be there for her. I pray she will be open to the idea of preparing to attend the temple. As I read preach my gospel thinking of you and the work you are preparing to do, I hope I can be given just the right words I need to say at just the right time so she will be able to feel the love of the Lord, her Heavenly Father, and her departed loved ones so she will not have to feel so alone. The memories I have with you in the celestial room are some of the most cherished memories I will ever have in this life. Because no matter
what happens or how long we are apart, we will share a bond that goes beyond mortality so we can truly say, even through the trials, all is well.

I had been praying in my heart yesterday for a way to tell your father about the late night TV issues without offending him. While we were at the pool before Andrea came I was able to share those tender feelings of my heart and he received them with understanding and said he would just go back to using the headphones. Gentle tears of gratitude fell down my cheeks as I realized a burden lifted. I hope I can always have such an open relationship with him so that when something weighs heavily on my mind like that did, I can share it and work together on resolving it. I was in the process of telling him how I usually come up with an idea of something to write you about when we are on our walks but that morning all that was on my mind was how to talk to him about that. I think I told you before that one of the reasons I married him was his understanding heart. When we were dating he could perceive when I needed to talk about something that was hard, and he helped my express it. I
learned to trust him and through the years he has shown great patience with me as we work together to understand one another better. I am so grateful for a husband who loves the Lord and loves his family so completely. As we pray and use the example of the Savior in our lives and strive to be guided by the spirit in our decisions, I feel the promise of together forever becoming realized.

Thanks for being an audience to the lessons I am learning during these precious days of your service as a representative of the Lord Jesus Christ. I am so grateful for your example and faith. I am so grateful for the scriptures that have been a wellspring of light drawing my life's lessons into focus. Alma 37:38- 40 is the page I turned to just now. The Liahona compass, prepared by the Lord for direction that worked according to their faith in . The Book of Mormon as my Liahona has been a great comfort providing my thoughts guidance I have turned to its pages in faith for spiritual nourishment. I am so grateful the scriptures are a source of strength for you as you fortify yourself today and store up oil for the weeks, months, and years ahead.

I hope this Sabbath fourth of July for you is a memorable day with the light of the gospel, and a love for this promised land of America, burning strong and shining bright in all you do.

With a heart full of love and overflowing,
Mom

Dear Kimberly,

I am on my way to the Draper Temple for you. I remember how much you love going there. I smile every time I think of you all dressed up riding the scooter to that beautiful building to serve in faith and feel the richness of our Father's love. You have awakened in me a deep love for the temple that I am so grateful for.

I was able to console my friend AB yesterday. I think you came with me to see her when her son C left for Switzerland on his mission. He returns August 19th. Anyway, her younger brother was buried yesterday. Her parents have died and her only other sibling, an older brother, lives in town but their relationship is strained. Oh Kimberly, how heavy her burdens are. This younger brother had served a mission in Ireland and always kept a deep love for the church in his heart even though he strayed for a time. Andrea feels so alone. She kept the scriptures this brother had on his mission. He was a great teacher she said. He arranged to have his parent's temple work done, even though he couldn't do it himself, just last year. The stake president spoke at his funeral and assured AB that as much as she loves her brother the Savior loves him more.

I stayed with AB over two hours last night - she was alone with not even her two sons around her - so I felt so blessed to have that time just to let her share and try to encourage her to let go and allow the Savior to help her forgive grudges and fill her heart with peace. She is so overwhelmed she just doesn't know what to believe any more. I told her to do one thing: open those scriptures to any page and just start reading. I promised her that the spirit would allow peace and comfort to come if she would read and let the scriptures become her teacher. I hope I said the right things.

Now I am headed to the temple to think of you and pray for inspiration about how to help her gain the strength and peace the gospel brings. Thanks so much for showing me how to be taught by the spirit more deeply in the temple Kimberly!!!

I love you with all my heart,
Mom

Dearest Schwester Rasmussen Our Kimberly,

How sweet it is to hear your words of joy in your service as a full time missionary. We read over your first e-mail again yesterday and we are so grateful that you are embracing this experience with so much enthusiasm. You have a way of diving into experiences with all your might from cleaning the kitchen to putting on an event for thousands of college students and rallying the troops to meet the challenge. I can only imagine the leadership resources you will draw upon to help those around you build the kingdom with full energy of heart and mind. I know you are attacking the challenge of mastering that German language with gusto. Your testimony auf Deutsch was wunderbar!

I hope you are finding new insights through your companionship with sister Hamblin. I know you have thrived with close friendships throughout your life. From JC and SM to HS and NM, as well as close relationships with Big-T and Sis-K, you are a loyal and supportive friend who is able to lift others and enjoy simple pleasures. I wonder what it is like for you to have companionship inventory. Checking to see how things are going on the inside of each companion helps open the way for feelings to flow and new goals to be set. Isn't it interesting that God created the world in seven days and we are challenged to reevaluate our lives each seven days as we partake of the sacrament. Sometimes I wonder why we have weaknesses but then I say the word and the scripture about giving unto men weakness that they may become strengths helps me remember that one of the most important things about the atonement is realizing our dependency on the Lord. Honest communication in the companionship and with the Lord is vital as we share our burdens and our weakness and earnestly try to address them.

Can you tell I am really talking to myself here? I hope to find ways to strengthen my marriage through better communication and awareness of how to address touchy issues with love at a time and in a way that will help us understand one another and achieve a higher level of oneness. You have a gift for remembering little things people like that let them know you love them. Bringing me a Jamba Juice or picking up the slack when time and time again I was behind on the housework were some very thoughtful ways you showed your love to me.

I know as I gain the courage to ask my sweet companion about things that are important to me and I show I am willing to go the extra-mile to do things that he would appreciate I can receive inspiration to share my feelings at the right time and in the right way that will bring us closer to the Lord and to each other. I have remembered my challenge from you and I am finding ways to be that sweetheart joining him in his relaxation time watching shows. Last night I gave him a foot massage her really appreciated. I am just hoping to be able to go to sleep without late night TV in the bedroom, and I already know he knows I don't like it so trying to plan enjoyable media time together will make the struggle more even right? I am learning how to see our relationship more clearly through your eyes and the goal you set for me. Thanks for knowing me well enough to help me reach for a better relationship with dad in a way I might not think of. We have been so blessed in closeness through the shared experience of sending you into the mission field that it makes us both ready to reach higher together toward shared goals. His has been physical exercise, mine has been spiritual exercise but both goals enhance one another. Figuring out how to meet this challenge of communication in my marriage was what was on my mind on our walk today.

This morning on our early morning walk there were several cars parked across the sidewalk causing us to leave the pathway and go around. A couple of times there were moving cars backing out or trying to drive across the street while just as we were trying to walk that same path we walk every day. Each time a car approached our path Bob was sure Pippin heard his voice and stayed right with us because he knew the cars probably weren't aware of this free wheelin' little dog. I was so grateful he made the effort to protect Pippin. I feel blessed to have a husband who watches out for danger and does his best to keep his family safe. He insists I walk on the inside of the sidewalk so he can keep me safe. He loves us all so much and is so proud of all we have accomplished as we have supported one another in becoming who we are. He misses you so much. He said the hardest thing is not being able to text you whenever he wants. I told him this Dear Elder thing is pretty cool. He sends his love in prayers, at sunset, and in packages of things he knows you'll like.

The scripture I stumbled upon this morning helped me think about those cars both parked and moving that made us go around or slow our pace to avoid a crash. We had to adjust our plan along the way. Alma 7:19 "For I perceive that ye are in the paths of righteousness; I perceive that ye are in the path which leads to the kingdom of God; yea, I perceive that ye are making his paths straight. 20 I perceive that it has been made known unto you, by the testimony of his word, that he cannot walk in crooked paths; neither doth he vary from that which he hath said; neither hath he a shadow of turning from the right to the left, or from that which is right to that which is wrong; therefore his course is one eternal round." Maybe that is why I felt so troubled by the things we found in our path today... I wanted to be able to stay on the path the whole way. The way is clear and does not vary. We want to make it back home smoothly without deviating but when things get in our way we have to stop and find a safe way around. With the help of the spirit, a loving Heavenly Father, sweet companions and loved ones showing us the way, we keep moving forward.

May the spirit guide your thoughts today and bless you to be able to have the words you need at the time you need to be able to lift yourself and others to new heights.

The spiritual gift I received in the Celestial room of the Draper temple yesterday was found in 3 Nephi 19:25. You know 3 Nephi 17 has always been my favorite chapter because of the Savior blessing the children but yesterday I found a new favorite image of His love, "And it came to pass that Jesus blessed them as they did pray unto him; and his countenance did smile upon them, and the light of his countenance did shine upon them, and behold they were as white as the countenance and also the garments of Jesus; and behold the whiteness thereof did exceed all the whiteness, yea, even there could be nothing upon the earth so white as the whiteness thereof. Verse 28 Father, I thank thee that thou hast purified those whom I have chosen, because of their faith, and I pray for them, and also for them who shall believe on their words, that they may be purified in me through faith on their words, even as they are purified in me. 29 Father, I pray not for the world, but for those whom thou hast given me out of the world because of their faith, that they may be purified in me, that I may be in them as thou, Father, art in me, that we may be one, that I may be glorified in them." You can imagine the joy I felt sitting in that beautiful room thinking of the time we have spent together in the whiteness of the temple. Your faithfulness has led me to a greater understanding of how we can become pure before the Lord and temple worship is such a symbol of that purity as is faithful missionary service.

I know the Lord is proud of us both as we reach higher than we have in the past. Our prayers are answered as we hear of the love you have for the work. Thank you for keeping us in your prayers too. Together Forever Love,
Mom


I

Kim's Second e-mail from the MTC

THANK YOU FOR THE JUNIOR MINTS!!

(disclaimer: I only have 16 min, I'm super frustrated with this email system, so next weeks email will be in better spirits now that I know what I'm doing.)

There is so much to say! Happy Thursday!! I cannot believe I've been here 8 days! I feel like I just got dropped off, and at the same time I feel like I've been here forever. The schedule...is so great, I love staying busy and so whatever horror stories you've heard of the MTC, they aren't true! haha. The rumors are true, we had the first presidency here last week! I didn't get to see Pres. Monson, but there were some elders in the other district that got to pass the sacrament to him, so great! BUT we did have a devotional where elder Oaks spoke to us...ahhh that TIMER is so annoying!!! I want to tell you all the funny stories but I feel so rushed..okay get over it Sister Rasmussen :)

My companion is SO GREAT! We decided we were friends before this sometime and have now found each other haha, i'll take some pics today and send them home to Kasandra to post, but send the SD card back asap! We work really well together and have great laughs. The other sisters in our zone are all so incredible, we have the best time before bed, laughing and talking and motivating each other.

Our whole district is great, there are 10 of us, sister Hamblin and I being the only sisters in the room. They are all great Elders working hard, we've all became a family and love it. Our teachers, Brother Zibetti, Brother Evans and Brother ORton are all great teachers and are hilarious. They all served in Germany or Switzerland and speak great deutsch, its so odd because these Elders are 19, my teachers are like 22-24 and I'm used to hanging with people the average age of 24/25??? But its good, I'm trying to think of all the funny stories, but i'm so intimidated by this timer, i'm all sweaty haha. Calm down, okay...ahhh only 10 min left! Well WIR SIND HAMMER, is our district motto, basically meaning we're the bomb auf Deutsch.

The FOOD is great. I cant believe people complain, going from living on my own and Nat's cooking, ;) to this amazing huge meals every time is a transition.. Sister H and I have a goal of only one dessert a day and we're keeping each other eating healthy, also during our gym time, we either can run in front of the temple etc, play on the field, or inside the gym we have been running around the track and doing strength training! I jogged a mile yesterday YES! haha pathetic but oh well. So there is way too much to say and not enough time in the email, and i cant seem to find a good way to get you the mass list I want to send you, so I'll figure it out, but I'm writing letters today so if i randomly close my email then expect a letter because we have the next 3 ish hours to write.....but THANK YOU SO SO SO MUCH for the packages and dear elder mail and letters, I cant explain the amazing feeling I get when there is mail, and that awesome yellow smiley face box was definitely a sight to see haha. I'm so grateful for the flip flops and shorts, now I'm not dying of heat in gym and i wont get some nasty food disease in the shower! haha, no really the showers are okay. Its crazy getting to go to sleep at 10:30, it takes me forever to wind down my mind to sleep, all i've been doing before I sleep is think of all I want to say to you guys and this is definitely not the funny charming eloquent email I wrote last night in my dreams, so sorry AH 5 minutes.... um....I'm so so stoked about the new mormon.org, check it out PLEASE for me I think like after July 4th or something, its going to be so sweet!!! OH and HAPPY 4th OF JULY!!! I don't know what we get to do for it, but hopefully something! I'll be thinking of yoU!!!!!!! um A sister referred to the first Sister AP's in her mission in the mission video, so I need to find out if its true dad, I will be one :) haha, AHHH I am just going to write the deutsch i've learned in the last 3 minutes and you all can ooo and ahhh at how much i've learned!

Ich weiss dass unser kirche jesu christi der heiligen der letsdten tage wahr ist, ich weiss dass Joseph Smith ein propheten war und wir konnen mit unser familian fur immer leben! Ich weiss dass wir haben ein vater im himmel and er liebt uns! ahh i'm so much better then that, I can pray and almost teach the first lesson auf deutsch! i'm just going to close now and say I'll be writing you all much more eloquent letters and let you know how happy I am and how much I miss and love you all!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Happy Thursday again and I promise next weeks email will be much better, remember you can only hear from me on Thursday s but I get mail everyday ahh! Tschuss!!!!!!

Dear Kimberly,

We just received your first e-mail! What a milestone for both of us. It's so nice to hear that your group of sisters and the missionaries in the German district are so outstanding because so are you. The synergy seems amazing. I'm sure you will have your ups and downs and your more favorite and less favorite times of day but being anxiously engaged in a good cause has always been your forte. I'm glad to hear that you're getting some good exercise time in. Mastery of the mind over matter, and spirit over flesh is a life-long quest that you can build into your personality now that will bless your life for years to come.

Big-T seems to be gaining more self-confidence as each day passes. He can almost feel himself maturing as he puts aside prejudices and grudges of the past. He is trying to set feelings straight with some of the people from Waterford he thought didn't like him. He and Andrew (who is engaged) are trying to get a group together of their class who they haven't been in touch with for a long time... We'll see how it goes but putting out that effort says a lot.

He went to Orem to see some of the people from his theater days. Dad and I were worried but he seemed to need to touch base just to let them know he cared. When dad asked if he was able to stay strong he said, "Yeah, I was really proud of myself." Now that he got that visit out of the way, I think he realizes those connections won't lead him where he wants to go. He is craving a social scene and starting with the Waterford group. He is so good at music, playing guitar around the fire ring at Draper park seems to be how he hopes to reach out. I am so grateful for his help with my summer school classes. He has helped willingly and with skills we admire. No work with Abrakadoodle so he takes some pool hours.

Sis-K has been quite cranky with family lately - that time of the month I guess. Her social life is blossoming almost faster than she can handle. Groups of wardies come hang with her at almost every pool shift. I still struggle helping her understand and agree to dress modestly especially at the pool. She also has helped with summer school cheerfully and with dedicated effort. I am so grateful for that help. MH got bronchitis and was only able to come one day this week. She is darling with he kids and hopefully will be up for helping again next week.

K-Baby is growing into a tweenager hanging out with friends almost constantly. She and AC had a blast with GC yesterday 'doorbell ditching. She even mentioned how fun it would be to go to school with neighborhood friends because they have such a good time together. She was helpful and creative at summer school too. I feel so fortunate to be able to teach with my kids so they can see how rewarding teaching is.

Both classes went very well even though I could have spent more time preparing. Teaching is like motherhood - there is always more you could do. But instead of putting more time into getting things set out perfectly, I trust in the Lord to give me the ideas after all I can do in the time I have been given because - I always try to put FAMILY FIRST - and last night I enjoyed a great evening with your father, much more important than getting more things ready for class.

K W had back surgery on Monday so Bob and I went over to their house to deliver milk shakes to cheer them up. The Bishop and MD were there too so we shared with them and had ourselves a little party. Bob seemed so happy with such good friends and so proud of you and the progress BigT is making. We are feeling so blessed to live here learning and growing with people we love and care about in our ward family. We are going over to the Woods Saturday night for 4th of July festivities - left over bratwurst & potato salad, great memories of your special day. Luckily the burn on Karen's arm from helping with the pretzels is fading.

As I was walking with your father this morning the sky was clear for the sunrise over the mountains, almost like a beautiful well-lit sheet of blank art paper ready to be painted upon with the acts of this day. I wondered then what this day would bring. Now that it is 4:00 in the afternoon I can report so far that it has brought strengthened relationships, creative art projects, stronger ties with my husband, Pippin, and you through our writing to each other.

We are gradually reaching toward goals of self-improvement and supporting one another. Our prayers this week since you have been gone have been some of our most fervent ever. I would like to say as in D&C 41:11 that our hearts are pure before the Lord, without guile, but we do live in the world and are sometimes dragged down by it and our own weaknesses. Thanks for helping us aim for the target of living the gospel more fully. May you rest soundly tonight knowing that your faith and efforts preparing to serve in Germany are lifting us with you to a new level of living with the spirit more fully.

Hello to all your new fellow missionaries who also have sacrificed much to become part of this great cause at this amazing time in the history of the world.
Love,
-Mom

Dear Sister Kimberly Rasmussen,

Today dad is for sure getting your stuff to you. I wonder what it has been like doing without the flip flops for so long - sorry!

Dad and I made it out on our Kimberly walk this morning and the sky was just how you like it; very gray almost like it was going to start misting rain any moment. We walk amidst many sprinklers every time and mostly walk around them but today there were very many more sprinklers and I almost never walked around them. Some just mist you, some get drops of water, and some feel like you're getting soaked. Today dad grumbled at one of the soaking ones but it was only a matter of minutes and we were dry again. I am so surprised at how a little uncomfortableness can disappear even though it feels like it will be with you for way too long at the moment. I wonder if that is what repentance is like. We all go through times when sin gets us down a bit, but we keep up our routines and keep our eyes forward. Somehow just the momentum of walking or doing what we are supposed to to helps the effects of sin lift off of us. There is one part of our walk that consistently has a fountain of water spouting up - almost 30 feet due to a broken sprinkler head. This fountain of water is soooooo appealing to Pippin. Every day she lingers there a little longer. Today we made it clear down the hill on Wasatch before we realized she was no where to be seen. Then I got a glimpse of her up by that fountain. We yelled for her. She lifted her head and got out of there quick. Usually she checks to be sure she is with us within less than 20 feet. This time she was so distracted we were 40 yards ahead of her. She scrambled to catch up with us dripping wet due to her frolicking in the irresistible fountain. Fortunately for Pippin, she stayed on the sidewalk the rest of the way and got lots of praise for staying with us.

I don't know why watching Pippin learn to obey always makes me think of the gospel but it does. I am so grateful for the Father's plan and my chance to raise a family in it. By the time we finished our walk the darker misty skies had given way to whiter puffier clouds and the sunlight shining through like spears as the sun made its way up over the mountain peak. Like the sunrise every day I know that the Savior's light can be counted on to shine on me every day I make myself available to it. Night does come and I have to do without its powerful warmth sometimes but even the stars and the moon during the darker periods give me light and hope. May this day bring you new insight and stronger faith as you store up spiritual energy to meet the challenges in the mission field.

Love you TONS!
-Mom

Good Day Kimberly - Sister Rasmussen,

Are you feeling like a real missionary yet? I just turned to the first chapter in Mormon, you know the Book of Mormon where Mormon was just a 10 year old boy and perceived as a sober child who was beginning to be learned somewhat after the manner of the learning of his people, and identified by Ammaron, his predecessor, as one who was quick to observe. I think those who are sober and quick to observe must have the gift of discernment and be able to have the spirit in abundance to interpret the symbols and signs of the Lord's hand and use that insight to teach. You seem to have that gift Sister Rasmussen. We read your letters late last night and were edified together as we read D&C 100 and thought of you and the faith it takes to do what you are doing. I am so glad to hear you are in good company. The people we surround ourselves with have a profound influence on our success don't they??? Poor Moroni. He did not have a solid peer group unless you count all the authors of the Books in the Book of Mormon. I guess he could have draw strength from them as we have been advised to do. Do you think reading the scriptures is a commandment? We are told to seek spiritual and physical nourishment so maybe it doesn't have to be a commandment because like eating we need it to be sustained. I am amazed at how much easier it is to read the scriptures now that you are serving as a full time missionary. As I miss you I am drawn to this source of light, peace, and comfort. It seems that no matter what page I turn to I can find a way to be strengthened, uplifted, and reassured that you are well and this work of building the Kingdom of God is amazing and wonderful. What a privilege to be engaged in so great a cause.

Observing nature and people can also give a sober mind food for thought. We taught a brand new class of summer school children yesterday - MH, Sis-K, K-Baby, and I. For some of the children it was their first day of school ever. What a miracle. What a privilege to witness their faith in us as their teachers and in their parents who had entrusted them to us. Fortunately, half of the class had been to school before so it was only a few who needed to rely on the examples of the other children that participating and following directions would be a good idea. Luckily, mother nature gives a young child so much to marvel at. Our lesson was on rocks and shells, both of which deserve our deepest awe and respect. After all, the earth is made of rock. Even the ocean is on top of bedrock. The mountains are rock and the center of the earth produces new rock. There are different levels of firmness and each rock is subject to erosion but rocks are all around us in some form or another.They are part of our landscape and buildings. They crumble eventually to become dirt and sand.

We are told to build our house upon the rock. I like to think of the rock of our Redeemer as the foundation - the bedrock that everything else is built upon. We are told that winds, rains, storms, will come but our house will stand if it is built upon the rock. I am grateful for my experience as a missionary because each experience with the spirit helped me attain a more sure foundation and with the association of others who built along side me, I was strengthened and continue to be strengthened by their examples of faith. Now that you are having these experiences as the first in our family of a new generation that foundation is being fortified even stronger. Our family, your future children, and generations untold will be drawing from the experiences you write about. Your witness will speak to their souls and help them draw nearer unto the Lord and our house will stand and bless all those who draw near to feel of the spirit that dwells therein.

Thank you for your faithfulness and focus as you study and learn. Like manna to the Israelites we are given nourishment daily as we seek it. I am overwhelmed at the love I feel as I reflect, read, and find bits of spiritual nourishment to sustain me. Now if I can help others in my family learn to seek this delicious fruit and eventually learn to feast upon the word.

Know of our deep love for you even though we have not yet dropped off your flip flops, shorts, and copy of you blessing. We will do it a.s.a.p. so you have them for Thursday. Hugs and kisses across the Internet to you our beautiful daughter. Hello to Sister Hamblin your sweet companion who is a jewel I'm sure!
Love,
Mom

Dear Kimberly,

Happy Monday! Isn't it great to get going fresh after Sunday. We got a great report from the Hunts about all the excitement at the MTC with new mission presidents, visiting general authorities, and even the first presidency. What a pinnacle of priesthood authority gathered all in one sacred spot. You stand on Holy Ground and so do I. What a blessing to have faithful home teachers who bring a love of the gospel and their fellow saints along with a message of truth from the first presidency. Such a simple yet powerful way to reach every member in their own home - as a witness - another testimony along with the spirit that the truths of the gospel are powerful principles and striving to implement in our daily lives will make us stronger and happier. We were so glad to hear that Trevor, Elder Hunt, has seen you a few times. I bet each greeting each missionary you anticipated seeing has been a real joy making your network of support even stronger. That bond you share as missionaries serving at the same time is like a spiritual glue that can bind you together in faith for years to come as you support one another in other phases of life building upon the strengths you grew serving together now.

We took Sunday off, but made it out on our walk this morning. The air was cool and it felt really good to move. I must admit though I get dressed and I am walking, I sometimes keep my eyes closed a bit so it seems like I am still sleeping. We don't talk much during the early part of our walk. It's nice to use the walk to wake up gradually and let the sound of the birds and the refreshing early morning air gently get me going. Pippin got to walk without a leash again until we got close to another dog on a leash. As soon as Bob noticed them he called to her and she came right to him. It was so tempting for her to get into it with that other dog that the leash helped us get past them with only a bit of growling, glaring looks, and no physical contact. Once we had moved past them a few hundred feet she got the leash off and was free to bounce and leap as she enjoys her freedom to explore, sniff, mark, and run. At one point watching her run up a pile of stairs only to turn to the left and jump off a big rock leaping down to us on the sidewalk, Bob commented, "It's like she's on a roller coaster ride or something!" She does seem so happy joining us each morning with such freedom to use her body as it was designed and control her impulses to stay with us.

Big-T too seems receptive to the steering of his parents as he is more willing now considering aligning his will with that of our Father in Heaven. I know your example and that of Wayne is powerful. He received a post card from Elder Alexander stating that his is in the city where Joan of Arc lived and he is teaching a lot. As he watches both of you attempt to do that thing that has been so daunting for so many years, he is beginning to be willing to try to understand the power of the spirit. Meeting with the bishop in the sacred grove of our backyard seemed to be a pleasant experience for him. Your father recognized that this is a window of opportunity in Big-T's life that could not be missed and asked the bishop to contact BT about coming over. Than dad explained to BTwhy getting to know each other now was so important. He would need the strength and guidance of this wonderful bishop to help him stay strong to the desires he has felt in his heart and his commitment to you. The visit went well on both ends we think. They were able to talk and laugh and when I asked BT if it was ever awkward he acted like I was crazy, "... of course not! I am not awkward!" Anyway, again I am so grateful for your example and your love for each of us. May you enjoy your studies and know we think of you constantly and pray for your success!
Love, Mom:)

Dear Kimberly,

Day 3 as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. We are still feeling the blessings flowing from your service. It was truly a thrill and a highlight of the day to read your e-mail and now we will look forward to Thursday almost like Christmas. We are striving each day to follow your example and live more fully our lives as the Savior would have us live.

Dad and I did go walking again this morning and so far Pippin is a regular team member on our early morning walks. She went the entire way without a leash today and followed commands to stay on the sidewalk especially up Wasatch where she is so tempted to run into the street. Whenever I look at Pippin I think of you so thank you for finding her for us. Dad has been so cute with her too and so proud of her for staying with us.

V C and I went visiting teaching last night and of course I got to share with her and our sisters the humbling and spiritual experience of sending you off at the MTC. What a flood of emotions we all felt as we hugged you on your way. I think it is one of those experiences you can't explain you just have to experience. I guess you know that because you sent off Ben and Tanner. You knew what it was like to be on our side. Now we get to love from afar and support you with our love and faith in new ways.

Thank you for loading the dishwasher even the morning you left for the MTC. What a kind and simple gesture of love. You have blessed our home with your tender care so many times without being asked and it has left me with such feelings of gratitude. You know that serving others even in little ways can make a huge difference - like the time I visited the Bountiful Temple open house and was brought to tears by the volunteers who crouched over, in one of those tent tunnels with heaters blowing to keep them warm on a cold February day, to put blue booties over each of my shoes so I could walk through that Holy House of the Lord without bringing in dirt. I could have put on those booties myself but that act of service still humbles me as I think of the Savior washing his disciples feet. Thanks for all the times you cleaned up after all of us that we did not get around to thanking you for.

Thank you for striving to help us clean up on the inside too. Sharing your challenges for each of us has been a big blessing so far. As we miss you and because we love you, we are striving to follow your example and sacrifice that one thing you picked in your honor. I feel my love for your father growing stronger from having gone through the amazing spiritual experiences of this week and from taking time to be with him as he relaxes in the evening. He again went without late night shows and fell asleep around ten so he could more easily waken for our early morning walk.

Our thoughts are filled of you as we walk. Today the early morning breeze was warm and the images of wind from your farewell talk helped me feel it as a warm hug from the Savior. Again, thoughts of being with you in the temple experiencing the Lord's perspective of our place here on earth distinguishing for ourselves the good from the evil flooded my mind. Many are looking for messengers from the Father. I know I am. You are one of those messengers. The prophets in the scriptures are some of those messengers to teach us how to return again into His presence. The house is peaceful as we return from our walk so it's a perfect time to pick up the scriptures and receive a message for the day. Today I turned to 3 Nephi 9 and read of the destruction of the great city of Zarahemla burned because of wickedness. But those who were spared because they were more righteous also were invited to return unto the Lord and repent of their sins and be converted as the Lord said, "...that I ma
y heal you...whosoever will come, him will I receive; and blesses are those who come unto me." The sacrifice he requires is "a broken heart and a contrite spirit." The experiences we shared this week were sacred and holy because of your example showing us what this type of sacrifice feels like. I pray that you and each of us will hold on to the memory of those tender feelings and know the Savior is holding us close as a little child in our sorrow for sin and our humility as we admit before Him that " the serpent beguiled me and I did eat." Please keep praying that we can each be brave enough to acknowledge our weaknesses before the Lord and ask for forgiveness that we may be washed clean and be "baptized with fire and with with Holy Ghost." The blessings you received as you were set apart and as your father gave you a Fathers Blessing were some of the most powerful words I have ever heard spoken and I felt the spirit confirm those words and fill us all with the Holy Ghost that hopefully none present will ever deny nor forget.

Your journey of faith has brought us these powerful blessings. Thank you for showing us first hand how to follow the Savior as you prepare to show even more souls the way to everlasting life and salvation. Your father and I pray for you and that your example and these witnesses of the spirit will be strong enough for your brother to stand on as he picks himself up and strives to reach toward the light. Our family motto stands strengthened and more powerful than ever written above the door to our sacred home, Rasmussens, Together Forever!

Love always,
Mom

Kim's First E-Male in the MTC

Hello Out There!
So......my email isn't working.. Will you check if I left it logged in on my laptop or something? I'll get it figured out..anyway! I love it here! This morning was awesome, my companion is Sister Hamblin! She's so great.. I lOVE my district, we have stellar Elders and teachers.. The food was good last night and we have 6 awesome sisters in our room.. so yes I'm alive and I'm doing well, I wrote a letter last night and I'll send it off today, it doesn't say much, sorry I am flustered with my email not working, so I'm distracted.. I finally dozed off last night after my mind racing for like 20 minutes! Great goodbye we had yesterday huh? I sure miss you guys already, but I'm so stoked to be here and to study the gospel and German, I wouldn't want to be anywhere else! Our branch President Brother Curtis is awesome, I said "und du" first thing i said, and so i guess i already made my one mistake.. oh well! Its a little crazy not being able to go to the temple, so mom and dad and Kasandra, you'd better go for me!! So I'm sorry I'm repeating myself in here and in my letter, but I need flip flops, basketball shorts......and uh your prayers so I guess I'll be hearing from you soon! I love you very much, oh and THURSDAY is our P-Day, not today cause we just got here, so wait til NEXT THURSDAY for an email, wow I sure do love love love you and I miss you very much and I love this gospel and my savior and this missionary program! I'll write asap.. happy Thursday..LOVE, Sister Rasmussen