"A candle under a bushel does no good"... or something like that. -Brother Tolbert

Hey, Yall!

I almost wasn't able to write, but I stumbled on some extra time so I'll share a little bit about what's going on here in Oak Grove :)

Russell is great! We saw him three times this week :) He is preparing himself for the covenant of baptism and we are (of course) thrilled to be helping him there! He didn't make it to church yesterday because he was locked in his trailer.... hahahaha, I don't want to talk about it.

Sister Kelly and I went on two exchanges! We are halfway through our tour (We call it a tour to make it sound more exciting). I got to work with Sister Garner and Sister Stephens, two wonderful Sisters that I now love.

There were some meetings, I interviewed with President, saw some Christmas lights (still no snow), Star Wars came out (how do I know? people skipped Church for it..) and we went to Golden Corral with Brother Graves and Sister Curry (two people we know individually but had no idea knew each other. Turns out they're the most unlikely best friends. I'll attach a picture of this, the most awkward dinner appointment of my mission).

We had the chance to share Christmas messages with anyone who would listen. I love Christmas. I especially love this year because as a missionary, I don't get all caught up in Santa Claus and shopping. I love all of that stuff, but it has been nice to be able to focus on our Saviour and to be a reminder of Jesus Christ in others' lives. President Uchtdorf in the Christmas Devotional said
"I invite each one of us to find, during this Christmas season, a  moment in the quiet of our souls to acknowledge and offer heartfelt  gratitude to “the Generous One.” Let us consider the  compassionate, beloved, and boundless mercy of our Father in  Heaven."
As we shop for gifts—as we give and receive them may we also take time to quietly contemplate the bountiful gifts God has showered upon us, His children."

Take his invitation! It has been very rewarding for me and I know it will be for you :) Have a blessed Christmas, everyone! I love you ALL!!

Sister Bartsch

A very awkward dinner appointment - and an unlikely friendship!

Sister Kelly and Sister Bartsch

With the Sister Training Leaders from the Coast!