Ohio - December 23, 2013

Yeah it's crazy, the last time I was home Christmas was just getting wrapped up. Have I really been out that long? I guess so, wow! But yeah, I'm really excited to hear from you.  That's one thing for sure, we teach so much on how the Gospel blesses Family, and I have been blessed with the best Family Ever! It's just not easy being far away form them, but I know that service to the Lord makes those Blessings that much better, so I know I am where I need to be! So how was it that those other Missions let the other boys Skype home, I've been in two different Missions and both of them told us not to Skype home! So yeah, I will be calling, I don't know exactly when right now so I will probably be able to let you know tomorrow or something! That makes sense though, do I ever know what's going on? Yeah, missions are good about changing you into a better guy, but I am still good old Jade, some things you just can't change :) Oh, and the Package, it must not have made it just yet. I did get a package from The Francoms and Aunt Denise, but it will come don't worry!

Sounds like things at home are good, that is so cool to hear about Jens, that stud, he deserves it! Oh man, since when was Mckady all grown up going to Dances! Just because I'm all old doesn't mean everyone else needs to as well! Sounds like lots of fun stuff! I  hope you all have a Very Merry Christmas! I better get some pictures to see everyone! And I hope you are able to get feeling better soon Mom, I love you! Merry Christmas!

Love, Elder Jade Merlin Grover

Ohio - December 9, 2013

Hello there!!!

Things here in Wilmington are going pretty good. It's a little cold and stormy, but I guess that just comes with the time of year.  Just like everything else, Missionary work is a lot easier in the warmer months of the year. But with it Now Being December, the work should go really well, if you know what I mean, people should be more open to what the season is really about, Christ!  I hope that everyone is coming along good, healing up and stuff, and that all the crazy has died down a little. Whatever the circumstances, remember what the season is all about, that our Savior has come, and the burdens that we face, he can heal them, for he knows exactly what we are going though! I guess talking about Burdens, Elder Burden's Middle Name is Allen, it comes from, I think, his Great grandmothers maiden name. Remember, he is from California, and to top that, he went to high school at Fountain Valley, or something, it sounded kind of familiar! So that was cool. I also found another connection, this one to Blanding though, the Glaiser's (spelling may not be right) members here insisted that I tell you they went to school at BYU with Jim Harris and that they were good friends! He sure was excited that I knew who he was talking about! Small world I guess, even out in the sticks of Indiana and Ohio, good old Blanding, Utah makes it's self known! But anyways, I'm doing good.  Thanks for all you do, I Love you Tons! If I need to do something, let me know and I'll just have to send another package home, haha, yeah, I'm sending that home today or tomorrow, whenever I have time!

Love, Elder Jade Merlin Grover

Ohio - December 3, 2013

Hello there,

Hey, sorry that I am a day late on writing you! I'm alive and well, I promise! It is just really hard to get things done here in Wilmington, and Elder Burden was very persistent that he wanted to go to Montgomery, the zone was getting together to do some games and things, so my day was completely messed up and I didn't get anything done. I guess that is the way life goes, so I better just get used to it. There is one thing I've learned a lot about, getting along with others, well at least I have had to really work on my patience! But yeah, I'm doing good! It sounds like things are crazy back there, we just have to stick to our faith in God and constantly improve our hope in Him that through these things that we are to go through we will be strengthened and we well be the better people that we are meant to be!  If we trust in him, he really will take care of us and help us to get through! He loves us and has prepared the way that we truly can become happy, and that is through following the gospel of Jesus Christ. And as we endure to the end we will be able to make it to live with true joy for eternity. Anyways, I hope you don't mind my preaching, sometimes the teacher needs to learn something from what he is saying as well. But I really do love you, and hope that you all have a wonderful season, for the focus is In Christ; He gave us the most important gift, and I am so grateful! And the next best gift was being blessed with such a great Family! I love you much!

Love, Elder Jade Merlin Grover

Ohio - November 25, 2013

Good Morning!

Just so ya'll know, Me and Elder Burden are staying another transfer here in Wilmington, Ohio. But my good Friend, Elder Waite, one of the other Elders in Wilmington, is getting transferred out. They are moving him up to a Zone leader position, he is a good kid and does some good work. Me, I'm still doing a really good job of staying out of leadership, which is probably a really good thing, I don't think I could do it with this new Mission, it is way too focused on numbers, and well, that is pretty much what leaders get to deal with is everyone else's numbers. I am very content with not having those distractions!  I get to focus on loving the people, and saying alive. Yeah, Elder Burden is out of his Meds, so keeping him under control can sometimes take a lot of effort :) but yeah, I'm dong good!

Hang in there Mom, trust in the Lord and he will provide. I know this doesn't go along with anything exactly, but read Alma 26:27, and the whole chapter if you want, it's good! Hopefully I wrote the right scripture, that is my Mission scripture, it gives me strength in the hard times!  Tell Zach I love him and am praying for him to get better fast! Man, sometimes I wonder why we have to go though crazy things, but I guess only God knows! But I do know that everything he lets us go through will help us grow if we trust in him to help us though it! Anyways, I love you all and I know that God has a plan and that we can be together forever, even after this life, for that I am ever so grateful! Stay strong!

Love, Elder Jade Merlin Grover

Ohio - November 18, 2013

Hello Mom!

Things are good out here in the Mid East! I'ts kind of weird, in Indy they said mid West, and here its considered Mid East - it isn't even that far away, but it is most definitely a different kind of people. But I guess I have already been here for a good amount of time, transfers are coming up again next week. I think I'm gong to get shipped out again, haha, not really, but hey you never know. I may get a new companion, he thinks he is going, so that would be fun, I haven't had to show an Elder an area in a long time. Well, I only did that once and I thought I was going to die, but that was after training, I have a little more under my belt now so I might live through it. Time is going fast though, I just hit 10 months - crazy! But, I still can look at it and it seems like it has taken a long time, it just depends how you look at it. One thing for sure, I sure liked the summer months a lot better than now with it getting colder! Oh well, it will always warm up again, right?

Guess what? I just got your Email, perfect timing :) Because I needed to know about what the plan was with the Christmas exchange. I think I might be able to handle that, I don't want to have him feel left out though, but I can do it! If there is anything else I need to do, just tell me and I'll do what I can! Thanks for all you do for me, I love you so very Much!

Love Elder Jade Merlin Grover

Ohio - November 12, 2013

Hello,

Well, I guess the missionary is good! I am most definitely not excited for the cold in these next few months! Today we woke up to head off to a zone meeting, and everything was coated in snow! Not a whole lot, but it froze pretty good and we had to pry into the car and scrape all the ice off - and we were already running late! Numb fingers are so fun right :) But on the bright side, I'm alive right? I lived through the last winter, I'll make it just fine! I was very grateful for the warm birthday gifts! I think I will get good use out of them! I guess talking about Gifts, I better answer your question before I forget :) I think it would be better to leave me out of the Rotation, me being me and a Missionary and not having help to get my Gift it could end up sad. I don't want to get something nice and not be able to give something nice to who I have. But if you want me in there anyway, I will work it out, but I think it would be a good idea take me out this year. So Jens is with Tatiana again? So does that mean I'll get a cool letter from her again, haha, just kidding. But Man, be careful Jens, remember what Girl problems got me into my senior year? Keep your focus where it needs to be, you can't go back and live it again.  And Mckady, the same goes to you, things come and go fast, make sure you are doing what matters most! Anyways, I'm good, the Lord is taking care of me. Yesterday was a holiday, so I couldn't E-mail you then.  We have an awesome investigator working towards baptism the End of this Month, and we are really working on getting New members lessons going with the ward Members for the Converts that have not got them this past year! So, lots to do, busy is Best right! Remember, I love you all and I pray for you often! Love ya, Mom!

Love, Elder Jade Merlin Grover

Ohio - November 4, 2013

Hello back there in Blanding!

I'm doing really good out here, I'm getting to know the area little by little! The people are good here too. I got a surprise on my Birthday, they had me blow out a ton of candles, it was really fun! The home that we were in was crazy and fun, but it still wasn't as good as things are at home! I'm pretty sure it's because I have the best family in the world, so nothing can top that! And again, thanks for the gifts, you guys sure know what I need as I go into the colder months! Man, I am not looking forward to the coldness of the next few months. And Mom, I love the tie, you are so amazing. Now all the sports are all done, what are you going to be able to update me on, haha? More sports will come! Wrestling is next; hey, that's weird, I left during wrestling season, now that is a weird thought. But anyways, I'm glad to hear all is well. With our trust in the Lord we can do anything, right? Again, thanks for all you do for me and the love and trust you have in me! I really do have the Best Family in the world!!!

Love, Elder Jade Merlin Grover

Happy Birthday Elder Grover!!!

October 31, 2013

They did take care of me out here!  I got a big cake with lots of candles to blow out . . . awesome!!!  Thanks so much for the package and gifts!!!

Elder Jade Grover

Ohio - October 28, 2013

How are things in Good old Blanding?

The wheather sure did go from nice to freezing, or at least it feels that way to me! I guess that just comes with the time of year! But, some good News - the package you sent for my Birthday made it safe and sound, I think that it was Friday maybe, you know me, I can't remember anything really well. It's pretty different coming up on my Birthday not at home, and at that, in a brand new place where I am most definitely not homed in yet, but it will come! That's what Missions do to you, once you are comfortable, you get sent away so you can continue to grow! I sure do Miss Connersville, and some things are kinda hard like, Elder Channell told me that one of our last Recent converts has not been doing so well. And you know what, I'm a long ways away and I can't do anything about it, but that's off the point! Things are slow in the New area, but when everything gets used to a new Elder, it will pick up! It's good to hear things are good at home, Football has another Game, that's always great! Stay Warm in the Changing Weather, and don't get sick, it sure catches you off guard! Anyways, I love you Mom!!! Keep going with Faith!

Love, Elder Jade Merlin Grover

Ps. Yeah I think that Dad said in his letter About Erica Burke, Pretty Crazy! but I wasn't fast enough to be remembered but that's okay! Now we are engaged in the Lord's work and there is nothing better than that. 

P.S.S. And again, thank you for the Package, It Sure did make my day! And Tell everyone thanks for their love! I sure do love all of you and am so grateful to have such a wonderful Family!!!

Ohio - October 21, 2013

Mom!!!

Well, now I am 100% kicked out of the Great State Of Indiana! I know it is not all that far from there, but no joke, it is a completely different world out here! I was pretty much on the same level with the Hoosiers, and well, they are not Hoosiers over here! I guess you may want to know where over here is :) Well it took me forever to be able to say it, right (I think that was Elder Burden's fault) but anyways, I am in Wilmington, Ohio.  It is a really good thing that one of the other Missionaries in town served a transfer in my district a few transfers ago, ( Indy Missionaries have to support each other). I Hope I will be able to get use to things fast, but you know with the Lord I can do hard things, right! Well My Companion, Elder Burden, is from Southern California, so that is interesting! But that is not the hard part, I never thought I would have a ADHD Companion, but he is good when he is up on his Medication. I learned Yesterday that it's not good when he doesn't have it! But really, he is a good kid! He had a baptism this last Saturday, so that was cool walking in on, the other set did as well, so the Work is most definitely going on here, so that will be exciting! Man, it is sad that it's coming to the end of the sports season, I can feel it though, it has started getting colder here, Fall is here! It's really going to be weird having My Birthday out here, and being in a new place nobody knows me yet, so it should be fun! Anyways I'm doing good! I hope all goes well, remember I love you!

Love, Elder Jade Merlin Grover

P.S.  My new Address is:

30 Farquhar Ave. Apt #7

Wilmington, OH 45177

Indiana - October 14, 2013

Dear Mom, 

It sounds like a lot has been going on lately! Man, I remember how the last of things go! But guess what, then you get to move on and do bigger and better things, right? And don't worry Mom, Jens may be your last boy to grow up, but you've got a lot of little Grover's with different last names that you will be able to go and watch! And you know what, it won't be near as stressful as watching us, Right? But yeah, I know what you mean, if you remember me, I'm not a real huge fan of change.  But if I learn one thing from being on a Mission, it is that everything changes, and really you can't do anything about it! I guess on that note, Transfers are tomorrow, and well, I guess they thought me and Elder Channell have spent enough time together, I'm getting shipped out! If it is anything like last time I won't go very far! But I didn't realize it was going to be so hard to leave.  I really have been able to find some of my long lost family here, I'm going to miss them! And with that, I guess you should know that I will have to come back out, me and Elder Channell are supposed to come back for the Harsh's Girl, Brianna's, Baptism! This interesting little place has grown on me, haha! No, I'll restate that, the people in this interesting place have grown on me!

I guess on to the week, we had another really great Baptism, Sister Jordan's Testimony is so strong, she was able to take on her fears and follow the savior's example and enter the water! Another very spiritual experience! And I really believe this act is will be the start of a whole bunch of their family who will also come to know the truth! Then just last night we set a baptismal date with brother Harsh's Mom for the 13 of November! So yeah, the work here in Connersville is Booming!  I guess I did my part and don't get to be here for the rest of it! But the joy that came from here will always be with me! I'm Glad to Hear Lucy didn't Slow down! That wouldn't be like her right, she is just so awesome, I love that little Girl! I sure am Grateful for my wonderful family at home and the support you all give me.  I know that's how I have the strength to make it day to day! Keep the Faith, Love you Mom!

Love, Elder Jade Merlin Grover

PS What's your guess where I will be headed? You know how it is, I have no idea where I will be!

Indiana - October 7, 2013

Holy Cow! That wasn't just a Crazy weekend, It sounds like it was a really bad one! It's good to hear that Lucy is doing okay now though, I sure love that little Girl! Tell her that I love her, and am praying for her to get better fast! I Know that God Protected her, and from this He will bring strength for her to heal and growth and strength for the Family as they Go to God for help!  I bet The Grover House nice and Crazy with kids running around, I sure do miss all of them. It's Most definitely a lot calmer here though, Things kinda slowed down a little after our Amazing 3 weeks, but I guess that's what you get when you Baptize all your investigators!  We do Have a Baptism Coming up this week, But she is actually our second councilor in The Bishopric's Mom. And she is pretty much a Member, she has Two callings, or assignments you could say, but she never has been Baptized! She has a phobia with water, but through some recent Events she wants to give it a go!  So, we didn't teach her, well once last Week, but other then that she had us over for dinner a couple time like a Member would do! So lots and Lots Of Miracles Here in Connersville! Conference was great though, the best was Watching it with our recent Converts! On Saturday it was us, The Harsh's, Sandy and Kids at the Church! Very inspirational as well, and it was cool to have the variety of different accents of different people too, this is most defiantly a world wide church, and Growing! But yeah, things are good here! Hold in There at Home, I always have you all in My Prayers! Always be strengthening your testimony and Faith in Christ, as mentioned in several talks in Conference, Through Christ he will help us through the trials we have to overcome! Keep the Faith, I love you much!

Oh, and Thank you so Much for sending the Article that Jens was in! It made Me all Excited for his Efforts and Hard work; You are a stud Man Keep it up! But always Remember To thank the Lord for all he does, it is Him that gives us everything! Again, Thank you Mom for all you do, I love you!

Love, Elder Jade Grover

Indiana - September 30, 2013

Hello, Hello!

Things are going really well here in good old Connersville, Indiana! Do you want to know a funny? You know how I got called to a place with the same name as my horse, that didn't click before coming out, but I realized it a couple times while I have been out.  But Dads letter telling me about their Trip up to the Mountain with the Horses and the Rain, Man those times make the Best Memories! But yeah, I'm in Indy right now, and My horse back at home is named Indy! I just thought I would tell you while I had that thought come to my head. But it is always wonderful to hear about what's happening back at home! Sounds like the sports are holding up well. I got the Pictures of Jens and Mckady, I'm so proud of their hard work! Keep it up, I'm Cheering for you, sorry you can't hear me! But really, Amber has Been Trying to send Me E-mails, yeah, nothing has come through, does the Computer not know she is my sister? Maybe you will have to be the Middle man again - I did get the Track Camp Pictures, that was supper cool! Man, It sounds like Missionary work in Utah is Going Crazy! 4 sets in Blanding, Wow! I guess it will hit us too someday, haha, jk it is. My old area Got another set, but it was a little bigger city than I am in now, but it's still bigger than Blanding, What do they do with such little proselyting areas? I guess I just have to Remember that everything is different in Utah! But, it is increasing here too. I still Can't comprehend more than one set in Blanding, sounds like the members have a lot to do there now! We are hoping to Get another set here someday, just our one set is covering 3 little Cities bigger than Blanding, and we can't ever get out to the other ones because they Took our Full time car away:( but that was really good to, I was finally able to get back on my bike! Anyways, lots and lots to do, and More and more is needed, the work of Salvation is amazing isn't it? Anyways, thanks for all you Do for me, Love you Mom!!! 

Love Elder Jade Grover

P.S. Yeah, I Got last Weeks e-mail with the Pictures and stuff, Just not when I was on last week! And, I wrote this just before I got yours today. I don't always know when We will come on Mondays, Elder Channell likes to fly by the seat of his pants.  He sure is helping me learn a lot though, if you know what I mean. And about Halloween, I don't know what I'm going to do out here with out a big Party, you all will just have to do all the fun stuff for me back at home! And of Course Report:)

Indiana - September 23, 2013

Mom!!!

You would never guess! We had another baptism this week! That makes it three for three, three weeks with three baptisms. The Lord really has blessed this little city of Connersville, one blessing led to another! Two of the baptisms were unplanned surprises! Remember the the miracle with Dustin Harsh and his baptism the other week! What was keeping him was he was waiting until he could do it with his wife; and we had a couple very spiritual meetings just with him, and we kinda joked with him that we could get it done within a day, but at the same time we were serious, and as we left the church he had set up the interview. And we got it all done the next day. The next week Sandy was a scheduled to be baptized, that was really good because it had been scheduled for an earlier date but it wasn't met.  It has been really cool to see the change that has taken place in her over the past few months and after the baptism.  And the baptism this week is connected with the first miracle, when we were talking before Dustin was committed to be baptized we promised him that if he went ahead and got baptized, setting the example, within a year his wife Heather would follow! Two weeks later Heather called us up and said she was ready to be baptized as well! So we got it all set up and her baptism was Friday. They are amazing, the Harsh Family has a lot in store for them in the Church, many great things! God really, really is doing the work, and when we are doing what's right He really does speak through us!! Anyways, I hope all is well at home, remember I love you Mom!!! 

Elder Jade Merlin Grover

Dustin Harsh Baptism

Sandy Baptism

Heather Harsh Baptism

The Harsh Family

Indiana - September 16, 2013

Mom!!!

Things here are going really well, there is a lot happening!  I did get your package, safe and sound last Wednesday!  Thank you for keeping track of me, the Snickers tasted really good :) I thought you might want to know that!  And the letters from dad were really good, he always knows how to pick me up and get me going.  Good old Connersville has really been blessed over the past few weeks, two wonderful new members entered into the fold.  The Ward has only had two baptisms this year and they both happened in the past two weeks. But that's not all, they will have we have a couple more that are really close to join them! Yeah, it is family of Brother Harsh's but they have really been affected by the change that has come over Dustin since he has been baptized. Then the last Baptism, a young lady named Sandy Eberlein, went really well! The ward has really been there for her, and with all she is going though in life it has been a really big blessing for her to have a place where she has support. So things are good!!! It is good to hear we are getting rain back at home, from the dry summer we had! Crazy stuff does come along with the good stuff. But if we are in tune with God we will be protected!  Anyways, I hope all goes well this week, with the activities and everything, you'll have to keep me updated.  Remember I love you! Keep the Faith!

Love, Elder Jade Merlin Grover

Indiana - September 9, 2013

Mom!!!

You know me, I don't ever get in accidents, 100% safe all the time!  So I guess with all the new missionaries out and about there are more getting hurt, huh. Funny, missionaries don't get updated on news stuff about other missionaries very often, just occasionally about how many total missionaries are out, every now and then at big meetings, which are not all the time.  Other than that, we run the work in our own areas and we don't know really anything outside of our District in specifics. The work is increasing, that's for sure, for each little area, it is awesome.  Connersville has a lot of potential baptisms in the next little while. It is pretty crazy for the weeks and weeks of nothing happening, but if we are going to not just die off after these baptisms, we better step up in finding more people to teach! Me and Elder Channell are most definitely not very good in that spectrum. Sometimes I wonder how they trust us, we are probably the funniest missionaries out here! But I guess that's not a bad thing either, it may be what some specific people need!  It sounds like things are staying nice and busy back at home, I love hearing how everyone is doing! As a Missionary and teaching how the gospel will bless families, I can't help but think how blessed I am to have been blessed with such a wonderful family that is strong in the gospel. Always be thankful and stay strong, you don't know how much that can influence everyone around you! Remember to tell them all how much I love each and every one of them and all of you that read this. Love you Mom. 

Love Elder Jade Merlin Grover

Indiana - September 4, 2013

MOM!!! and Family

Well, I will be in the good old Town of Connersville, Indiana from one more transfer. I think that this transfer will be really awesome, I think that will will really be able to pick things up and we will have a lot of success. We do have a lot of people that are really happy that we weren't shipped out, so that is good! We had a really awesome miracle last night - we have been teaching Dustin and Heather Harsh, who have been taught by the missionaries that are in Connersville for about 2 and a half years now, and you know we constantly joke with them, when are you going to be dunked. Well anyways, that past few days things really came to the wires and Dustin decided he needed to get baptized, he couldn't keep waiting around for Heather, he needed to set the example. But he wanted to get it done now and before either of us left, he says that always when he gets close, one of the Missionaries leave and he starts all over again. So we pulled together a surprise Baptism on the Ward! And we have a baptism planed for this next weekend as well (Sandy) if everything works out! They found her just before I came into the area, so we pretty much have been able to teach her everything! Crazy to have them right next to each other after the weeks and weeks of not much happening! But it was really cool, it was Elder Channels First Baptism, and well My second! We are hoping that we can keep the fire! Anyways, I'm doing great, I hope you have a wonderful week, love you Mom!

Love Elder Jade Merlin Grover

Indiana - August 26, 2013

Hello Mom!

Things here are Great!!! Guess what, we got to hear from an apostle yesterday! Yeah, pretty crazy to have two apostles come to your Mission. Of course it wasn't to the very same Mission, it was two different Missions, but you know, I'm in a different Mission than the one I was in back in March. Yeah, I got to take my first trip to the Ohio, Elder Oaks was in Cincinnati calling a new stake president for one of the Cincinnati stakes and wanted to talk to the Missionaries before having to fly out! It was absolutely amazing! We are lead by true Prophets, without a doubt, and this is God's Church restored to the Earth and nothing Can stop the work from Progressing. What a wonderful time to be living, and what a wonderful opportunity To be involved is such a wonderful work. Well, Transfers are next week, so the schedule of things may be a little Messed up, or may yet even be completely different, who knows. But, I think that both me and Elder Channel will be here another transfer, after talking with President a few weeks ago at Zone conference. It sounded like there was something we have yet to accomplish here. But, if that's not so, I'll tell you where I am at next Wednesday. There is much to be done here, that is for sure, and I know with the Lord's help we will find it! It's good to hear about the rain at home; just a little late for summer time, but I guess we cant complain with what we get, right? I know God will bless those who trust in Him. And holy cow, yes time is flying, already fall! But you know, we'll make it, after the cold it always gets warm. Through the dark hard times, Christ's light will always come to warm and comfort us as we trust in Him and the sacrifice He did for us!  Keep the Faith, Love ya Mom!

Love Elder Jade Merlin Grover

Indiana - August 19, 2013

Hello Mom!!! and Family!

Well, it sounds like things here are most definitely not as Crazy as it sounds like things are back at home! I'm not sick, nor so I have blisters on my feet, so I must be doing good! I did have a little bit of a runny nose earlier in the week, but I'm just doing so good nothing can get ahead of me! I guess I better knock on wood, it might catch up with me! The work is going really well though, we are teaching a young lady, and we finally were able to get her out to the church last week for a tour and scripture class, but we still weren't able to get her there on Sunday! She had gotten all ready and everything, but the ride we had for her called before and some guy picked up and told them that she was busy and would not be able to come to Church today! Yeah, the rest of the people in her crazy house and circumstance of living don't like the church very much. We also were teaching a quadriplegic guy, one of the recent converts' sons, but he has been sick lately and we haven't been able to see him lately.  But back when we started teaching him, while his parents were on vacation somewhere, he drove his wheel chair all the way to church, like over 2 miles. Wow!  Very good guy though! The ward is small, but the people are really good people, I hope that we will be able to help them and get the ward up and growing!

I hope that everything goes well with everyone back at home! Make sure Jens gets healthy, we can't have any more of that being sick stuff, he's got some football to play! Keep pushing forward though and stick close to the Lord and He will help provide! If I only learn one thing, that's it, no matter how hard it gets the Lord will always help us through, if we but give it to him. I hope that you can get those feet of Mckady's healed up so she can get out there running with the Grover name! But through it, all remember the most important thing is to make sure we continue to strengthen our faith in Christ all the time and He will bless us and help us through it all! Remember I love you and pray about you all, very often! Love you Mom!

Love, Elder Jade Merlin Grover

Indiana - August 12, 2013

Hello there Mom and Family

 Holy cow is time going Fast? Just a few more days and I'll be out 7 months!  Crazy, before you know it you will have to deal with grouchy old Jade again, along with everyone else :)  But I'm glad that I was missed over the weekend, I sure missed being there! The animals and the fair are just part of me, it would be very hard to get it out of me!  So even if you have a rough year here and there, the memories that are made by the kids make up for it all! So, how is having a big old Senior Football player around? Tell him to remember to have fun in all he does, it goes way too fast.  Then, before you know it you are out a few miles from home trying to talk to people that don't always really like you very much; but there are those that have been prepared and are just waiting, we just have to be obedient and faithful and we will be able to find them and help them on their way to Christ, and his Gospel. Its way exciting, the wave is making it out this way! In our stake they are planing to have two or three sets of Missionaries in every ward, and they are trying really hard to get the members out and involved as much as they possibly can. Things are just going to explode, it's so wonderful. The reason you haven't got any info from the mission may be because they are way too busy with their numbers, I really don't know what they need them all for. Back in the old Mission we only had to report our weekly actual numbers, then we had to report twice a week, then every day, and now they just added reporting all of our Goals too! And when we don't have good enough goals we get  a call asking why, just a little irritating! But that's what our leaders want us to do and they know what's best. I hope that all is well at home, and that all will go well with school and everything coming up! I am doing well; crazy, but I guess that is how life is everywhere, right! Anyways, I hope you have a wonderful day, Love you Mom!!!

Love, Elder Jade M. Grover

Indiana - August 5, 2013

Good Morning from Indy!

Oh, fair week! It's crazy, but it still is something that I looked forward to every year, even if I was a little immature a few of the years! But what can you say, the past is in the past, and we are in the present so lets make the most of it!  And you know I loved working with the animals! I would be right there doing what I did before in a heartbeat! I guess I shouldn't have spoiled you as much as I did though:) Don't worry too much, it will all work out, it may be crazy but you know what, that is how memories are made so just have fun! And, of course pray and God will always be with you all the way through it! I know that with out a doubt!  That right there with patience through the crazy times and lots and lots of prayers, that is how I survive. We sure need to get that whole going off feed thing figured out, it seems like we have a lot of problems with that, don't worry, we'll get her down one day! But it will be great! So I guess I don't know how many animals we have in it this year? Do we have all the grand kids thick in it? You have to remember to send me a few picture so I don't have to feel completely left out, you know! But, you remember to take care of yourself mom, don't let all the stresses be too much, go into it with a smile and all will be good! Remember that I love you, and thanks for all you do for me! I am so grateful to have a wonderful mom like you!  

Love Elder Grover

P.S. I'm doing well, don't worry about me! The work is great!

Indiana - July 29, 2013

Well, I'm alive and well, even if it appears that I'm in the uncharted lands of the Cincinnati Ohio Mission!  The reason you may not have heard from the mission might be because everyone is all loaded down with all the numbers that have to be reported now, haha! Yeah, that's one thing that is for sure, President Porter really likes numbers and data. But he seems like a really good guy; a lot of work will go on with his dedication and motivation, so nothing bad will come from that! My last area, the great city of Richmond, Indiana, got another set of elders this last transfer. For me it was super exciting, but it also was not good at the same time. Here in Connersville we used to have a full time car, and well now we don't. The second set of missionaries in Richmond is going to get it every other week. That's good though too, now I get to get back on my bike! The bad part is that all the plans that we had for this transfer went down the drain, we can't go out to the neighboring towns to work, but o-well we'll do what we've got to do. But the work is pressing on! It is so exciting to hear all about the excitement for people heading out on missions, there is a lot to be done! We don't see a lot of missionaries going out here, well we did in Richmond, but yeah, there is no youth in Connersville, so no-one going with calls out here.  And that's why we are out to help strengthen the ward and help the people here come closer to Christ, and thus the Lord calls more missionaries! Holy cow, already fair time, back to school, where does time go? Then to think that I've already been out 6 months - Crazy! Isn't it still February, and I just got out here! Well, I guess its not cold enough to be February, but that's sounds like what time it should be, right! But it sounds like all is going well at home, I always love to hear how things are! Talking about that, I got Taylor and Brooki's wedding announcement today, just a couple weeks away! Holy cow, we're getting old! Super cool! Well, remember I love you all, and wish the best for you all! Love you Mom!

Love, Elder Grover

P.S. P-days will be Mondays except for transfer weeks and then they will be on Wednesday 

Jade has moved to the Ohio, Cincinnati Mission!!!

Indiana - July 24, 2013

Good Afternoon Family!

Things are good here, most definitely not as crazy as things are over there! It is not even as bad as I thought it would be, I figured that I would be stressing to get all my things together today, but my companion and I are blessed with 6 more weeks here in good old Connersville! The Lord still has some things that He needs us both to do here, so we will keep working as hard as we can, and I hope that the work will really be able to get rolling here! Our investigators and the members of the ward will be happy, at least they said they would be sad to see us leave, but you know that is probably what they say to every missionary. But hey, either way they are stuck with me and Elder Channel for another 6 weeks. I hope that everyone survives the Treck, I so wish that I could go too.  Actually, I did kinda go on one, walking along pulling hand carts in the Bicentennial parade here, they even say that we made it on TV:) But hey, you might could find it, then you could tell everyone your missionary made it on TV! I also heard there is a few shots of us doing service for the celebrations, probably on the Bicentennial site, but I don't know what it is called. Anyways, I'm praying for you all the time! Stay strong and the Lord will be able to help you overcome all that you have to do, even all the crazy stresses that come our way! Keep the Faith and hang in there! I love you Mom!

Oh, and yeah, the mission does cover some of Kentucky as well so you never know, I might make it to Kentucky as well as Connertucky! Thank you for the package, I got it! Also tell Candice and her kids I love them and love the letters that they sent with the stuff!

Love, Elder Jade M. Grover

Indiana - July 15, 2013

Good Morning!

Well Mom, I don't know what we are going to do because you know Elder Grover has a very bad habit of doing things that Jade would do, and does a very good job at messing things up! Yeah, whatever I did last week made it so that my access to submit messages to your Email address has been rejected, it says when they send it back that it has permanent Fatal Errors! I still don't know if you can send me anything, or if you have tried, but before I sent this I hadn't gotten anything! So yeah, I don't know what we are going to do, sorry!!! Well, my old mission in Indy is having transfers this week, but we are having a 7 week transfer, so we won't have it until next week.  Now everything is so much different, I have no idea how this mission is going to handle transfers. You know me, I don't like change, but hey maybe someday you will get to know where in the world I am. Like I said, I have no idea what is going on, but do I ever? haha!  Really, they haven't told us anything!  But my guess is that I will be moved again, I kinda think that he will want to throw me right into the Ohio territory, that's why I didn't get moved very far before. But I do know that I was supposed to come to Connersville, maybe it was because of all the service that we have been doing here and I am one that loves to work like that, so I needed to be the one to do that! And hey, there may be more the Lord was able to do through me that I don't even know. The members here are really amazing, they sure have gone through a lot here! This is a very hard place to raise a family in the church, but they are hanging in there strong! But yeah, I am doing very well. I hope all is well at home, and that you are all able to survive the heat, it sounds like it has been really hot that way! I guess it is supposed to get really hot this week here too, but you know us missionaries, we have short access to news information. But anyways, remember that your missionary out in the Mid West loves you, Mom! I love you all too, I didn't forget about all of you either!

Love, Elder Jade Merlin Grover

Indiana - July 9, 2013

Hello Jesse! I guess I did something to the computer because it won't let me send anything to Mom! Yeah, that's something I would do, I'm real good at messing things up! But if you could get this to her for me that would be great! I don't know what I did, so I don't know if I can receive things from her either, I guess I don't know anything! All is well, I'm doing Great! Just tell Mom the situation and that all is good! Thank you!

Elder Grover

Indiana - July 1, 2013

Hello Mom, and Family!

It all the sudden hit us this morning that we are now in a different mission, kind of a weird thought, but hey not everyone can say they have two missions, yeah yeah JJ did too, but it's still cool. Even with today being the first day in the new mission we are still completely in limbo! You know me, I never have any idea what's going on, but I think there will be a meet and greet the new president sometime this week. I don't think they ever told us an exact day it will be, so I have no idea, I guess I'll meet him someday! Lots and lots of changes up ahead, but hey, that is a mission! Holy cow, once you get used to something, it all gets shaken up! You just have to keep taking that step and live a day at a time, I think I might finally be getting the hang of it, but it's never easy. Sounds like a lot is going on! It is good to hear that Jens is doing good with the Football, tell him to keep it up and enjoy every minute of it, it goes by faster than you ever really can think it will; then all the sudden you are out in the world somewhere. Don't think about that too much though, just have fun. Anyways, talk about going fast, I'm coming up on 6 months, now that is weird, time just seems to want to speed up. That is funny that you have been working on a house too, we just helped a lady move that has been working on a house that is not anywhere close to being done, but we had to move all her stuff out of the house she was in by the end of the month, last month. So it's kinda similar, house work is always fun:) Keep hanging in there, it sounds like things will be busy with the fourth this week, lots and lots of fun. I'll try to update you on the mission stuff, I don't know much of what's going on. It's taking a little less than half of Indiana. If you can find stake lines on the internet, it is the line of the Muncie and Fort Wayne Stake in the Indiana side, and I have absolutely no idea on the Ohio side, but I'm sure we will know soon! I'm doing great! It's good to hear from you, I love you Mom, Love you all!

Love Elder Jade Grover

Indiana - June 24, 2013

Good Morning From the Great State of Indiana!

Even though they are booting me out of the Indiana Mission, I'm still in the state! For now at least, my guess is that when the mission president comes he will mix things up really good! It's kinda weird, today we were told not to email President Collens or to put in our key indicators because we are now considered to be in the Cincinnatti Mission. So yeah, its interesting being in a mission without a president! We still get orders from the Indianapolis mission, so we are still under president Collins, but we are kind of in a limbo period. But guess what? The work still goes on! Of course it does, it's the Lord's work, and it will go on no matter what! Hey, talking about the work, were you all able to go to that leadership broadcast? That was amazing! They usually just have the ward councils go to that, but here President Collins had us tell the wards to invite the whole ward because every member of the ward needs to have that information. If you didn't go, you'll have to look it up and watch it sometime, it is really good! Yeah, yeah, member missionary work is a little harder back in Blanding, but still we all need to be in it. With more and more missionaries, the members really have to step it up and help us out by finding the people for the missionaries to teach. I know there is not a lot of non-members back home, but on those occasions when we should invite someone to learn more about the gospel, we've got to do it! It is way better than knocking on doors, but then again I guess the missionaries in Utah don't do much of that, different lifestyles I guess, luckies. Anyway, there was also a change that they are going to start implementing over the next several months which they announced that really scared me! They are going to be giving us way more technology to be more productive with our time! Yeah, I should have been born years ago, I don't know if I am qualified for all that tech stuff!  But what can I say, the world is going fast, and the Lord is always a long way ahead. Well anyways, now that you heard me go off, how is life at home? Did we make it through the crazy week alright? I'm good here, but holy cow I sweat like crazy out here, I feel like a fat man! Haha, with how much I sweat, I wonder sometimes, but I guess everyone sweats a lot!  But I still am scared, I've gained like 15 pounds since I came out, I'm weighing about 160, that is really weird. But anyways, I hope all is well, I love you all!!! Thank you mom for all you do for me! I love you so much!

Love,

Elder Jade Merlin Grover

Indiana - June 17, 2013

Second week in the new little place of Connersville! Sorry about sending you the wrong spelling of the City, I am pretty sure that it is with the e in the middle, not the o. So if you sent anything, I hope it comes, but it should because the postal code is right. If not, sorry, that is my fault. The work here is starting off a little slower than what I was used to, but I think that it will be speeding up very quickly. I mean, it's got to, they put two quite new missionaries in here that are still on fire right? haha! Yeah, Elder Channell has only been out for one month longer then me! But as a side note, he had got his call at like the same time, but his availability date was sooner so he made it into the earlier transfer. I am actually like a month older then he is, kinda cool!  I hope all is well at home and that the moisture is on the way, it will come, I'm praying for it! Hang in there and stay close to our Lord, and through Him we will make it through anything, I know! haha! I've learned a lot on my mission, and still feel like I don't know enough, so I am still yet to learn a lot more! The work is great, its hard but it is very worthwhile! I hope all the kids are doing well and enjoying the summer! How is Elsie Jo? Anyways, I'm doing well! And Dad, Happy Fathers Day! I hope it was great! Love you all! Love you Mom, take care!

Love, Elder Jade Grover 

Indiana - June 10, 2013

Good Morning from lost in Indiana!!!

Haha, yeah, I'm not lost, completely! But I guess I won't be in the Indianapolis Mission come July, they are booting me out!  Yeah, with getting the call to move areas, I figured that I would be moved somewhere that was staying in the mission like my Trainer was, but they decided to only move me one area away! I didn't even make it out of my district! Elder Walker, my last companion, is still my district leader, yeah, I didn't know what to think! You are probably waiting for me to tell you where I am at, huh? I was thinking that I would have you wait another week, haha, jk! I don't like being lost from the world, I wouldn't do that. I am now in a little place called Connorsville, IN.  Boy oh boy, it is nothing like my good old home of Richmond! Oh well, I guess I will just have to live, even if I am cramped in a smaller apartment. Elder Walker tells me that it is actually a good sized apartment compared to most, but I guess that I was just really spoiled with all my space in Richmond.  My New companion is Elder Channel from Orem, Utah. We were shocked and excited to serve together. We have been on a few exchanges, and we get along really well, but we had no idea that I was coming here. There is a lot of work to be done here, it is a very small ward, I don't know why it is still a ward with how small it is, but that gives it tons of room to grow, right? It's good to hear that JJ and Tamra were able to get the house, I hope it goes well for them! If I could, I would send the moisiture that we are getting here over there! It's not a whole lot, but we need it more, right! Keep hanging in there, we have to do what we have to do to survive, we will make it through. Yeah it is nice and warm here, I sweat a whole lot more out here than I did at home, that is for sure! But, things are really good! It's really good to hear from you, remember that I love you!

Love Elder Jade Merlin Grover,

My address now is,

1216 N. Central Ave. #7 

Connorsville, IN 47331

Indiana - June 3, 2013

Things are really good here. That is so good to hear that Elsie Jo's surgery went well. She sure is a tough little cookie. Tell her that her Uncle Jade loves her very much and is so proud of her. God does answer prayers, I know he was there every step of the way, along with a lot of great grand parents;  I know they had their hands in there, she is such a special little girl, she will do many great things.  Well, this will be my second to last day in good old Richmond, Indiana, I'm being moved out.  I knew that I would for about a week now, but i kept trying to tell myself otherwise.  But I know that I really needed to go, Richmond was becoming my home too much. God knows that I need a restart, He knows way more then we do, that is for sure.  There are lots of people I will miss, I really have grown attached to the ward, I love it. Well, I still don't know exactly what mission I will be in because we don't know where we are going until transfer meeting on Wednesday, but I am most likely to be staying in the good old Indianapolis mission. I think Elder Brinkerhoff  must have pulled some strings, he said last transfer he was going to pull some strings to have me stay in the mission, haha! Yeah, I know that didn't have anything to do with it, but it will keep more of the district from the MTC hear. Anyway, I guess I will tell you next week where I will be serving for the next little wile. It sounds like everyone is nice and busy at home, that's good! I love you Mom! I love the rest of you as well!

Love, 

Elder Jade M. Grover

Indiana - May 28, 2013

Hello Mom and Family!

I hope that everyone had a wonderful Memorial Day weekend! Well, with yesterday being the holiday, the library was closed, so I'm writing today! You hiked Honecker Trail huh? That's a good one, how was it. That sounds way fun, too bad I am on the other side of the country or I would have gone with you. Things are good here though, I really love being able to teach the gospel to others.  Coming out here, I was petrified because I didn't think I could be a teacher, but I have found that when you go into something with the spirit of the Lord with you, you can do anything  I know who really is doing the teaching, but it really has helped me to grow to love teaching and helping others know about the gospel .  It's crazy to look back and see how much I have grown, and it has only been 4 or 5 months! The Lord will help those who are willing to help Him, I know with a surety that He will. I hope everyone is enjoying the first few days of summer! Crazy that everyone is already out of school, when I left it was still in wrestling season! Wow, I guess time really does go fast out here; I better grab a hold or it will pass on by with out knowing it hit me! Haha, I am trying to do my very best, and I love getting to have the opportunity to help God's children in Richmond. Well, next week I will be able to tell you what Mission I will be in, already another transfer up, crazy! If I stay here in Richmond, I will be in the Ohio Mission, but you never know.  I have had the feeling that I will be moving, so who knows, I might stay in the Indiana mission, we'll just have to see!  You will have to tell me about little Elsie Jo, I'm praying for her, she is so sweet, God will be with her. Remember to keep the faith strong. I have to go, but remember that I love you all. I love you Mom!

Love, Elder Jade Merlin Grover

Indiana - May 20, 2013

Hello Mom and Family!

Things in Richmond are going well, nothing bad to complain about! You probably look at the weather here sometimes, so you probably know that it is nice and warm here. It is most definitely going to be a different summer for me, this moisture in the air is way a new thing. But I think right now it feels great, the only problem is some places, like Elder walkers car, can get a little cold this time of year. Kinda funny how people react to temp changes. Whats up with the genes that run in our family, poor Elsie is allergic to nickel and titanium too? I Keep her in my prayers all the time, and I know that God will be with her and bless and protect her every step of the way! Keep close to Him and He will help you! Wow, that is really crazy that school is almost out! Do you know what that means, I have been out of high school for a full year now! Seems like just yesterday, but when you look at it, my world has completely changed and every day brings something new. Yesterday we had a really good talk with the bishop, we were able to have a lot of questions answered about the ward, I hope that we can help it out some. I really have grown to love the ward and am really excited for the work that will be happening in it over the next few years, of course I won't be here that long, but I hope that we can help the Lord strengthen his saints while we are here. That is crazy that you got released.  You weren't in that calling very long were you? Time is going fast, what are you going to do now? I bet it is nice to have a little break. Well, tell everyone I love them.  And always remember how much I love you, Mom! Take care, the Lord is with those that are on His side!

Love, Elder Grover

Indiana - May 13, 2013

Hello Mom and Family

It was so great to hear from everyone! I hope you know that I love you all so very much and am so thankful for your support and prayers in my behalf. I am so thankful for the way I was raised up, my eyes really have been opened to the way life could be without the gospel to help us. I am so grateful for the privilege to be out here and giving that opportunity to people that have not been so blessed. I really know that the gospel will help their lives out so much! For all the many blessings that I have received from it, one of the biggest is the great blessing of a wonderful family that helps and supports each other with love that lasts longer than this life, for eternity. For the example I have received through the years, I will be eternally grateful.  Gods work will roll forth, as we can see in the events of the past few months.

Things here in Richmond are going well, lots and lots of work to do! But like a ranch, I guess the work is never done, so we all just have to keep working hard day by day and much will be accomplished. We just have to keep our shoulder to the wheel and do as the Lord directs.  I don't know what more to say, after talking yesterday, but I'm alive. Haha, of course I am! I love you all and hope you have a wonderful day!

Love,

Elder Jade Merlin Grover

P.S. Keep me updated about Elsie!

Indiana - May 6, 2013

Hello Mom!!! 

Elder Grover is doing very well! I'm still alive, even after we had a blitz with the assistants. I was a little worried about it before, but all went well. I should just know that by now, God will make things work out if you are doing what you are supposed to do, I shouldn't worry. Richmond is doing well.  My companion has a feeling that this ward really needs some less-active work done, so we might try to get a lot of that in, so that will be fun.  In the books here there should be like 500 members, and only like 150 or something come.  John and Melissa and family are doing well, they just moved to a nicer apartment with cheaper rent and I think that will help with their progression.  It was kind of hard for them with Elder Syrett leaving, they really loved us, and getting use to Elder Walker has been a little hard on them, but things still are going well. But really Elder Walker is really great! He has really helped me out in teaching him the area, it was kind of hard to lead someone around after I have been the one following the other around for a few months, I had to learn a lot fast. It kinda' sounds like it's a little bumpy at home, stay strong and keep your heads up. God has a plan, we just need to keep up our hope and faith in the Lord's plan, it is a lot better than the plan we would have for ourselves. If I only learn one thing out here, that would be it. I really have had to strengthen my Hope and Patience in Gods plan for my quality as a missionary.  It dosn't just happen, but with the Lord's blessings I will take my steps in becoming what he wants me to be. I was going to say, at least next spring you won't have to worry about missionary stuff, then I remembered that might be on the list too. But don't worry, that's next year, that's a long ways away! I hope Elsie's stuff goes well, tell me how things went next week or when you can. I hope that everyone is feeling well or well on their way to being well! With Mother's Day, I don't know exactly what is going on, but by what Elder Syrett said, it is most likely going to be a call, not skype. Something like, the mission does not like to take time away from the member's time with their families in the homes, so I probably will give you a call! I hope you have a wonderful week! I love you so much, Mom! You can tell everyone that I love them too, if you want! Haha, jk, love ya.

Love,

Elder Jade Merlin Grover

Indiana - April 29, 2013

Hello Mom!!!

Well, this week was a little crazy with the whole transfer thing, but all is settling down. Pretty crazy that I'm leading a missionary around Richmond that has been out longer than my trainer and me combined, haha! That happens when you get trained by someone that had only been out 4 to 5 months when he started training you. Yeah, my new companion, Elder Walker, has been out for 17 months and is the district leader. So yeah, at first I was a little intimidated, but we got this down and things will go really well this transfer I think. It is really weird to be doing work without Elder Syrett though. It's crazy, they also moved the senior couple, the Alleman's, out and are not putting any back in, so now it's just us and I am the only one that knows the area (well is suppose to know the area:). But yeah, I don't know any more on what is happening with the mission split, only that I am still in one of the zones that will be in the new mission. Elder Syrett was moved to the other side of the state, so he he will most likely be in the Indy mission. I think that next transfer will tell us for sure where everyone will be. Whoever is in the areas of the new mission will be in that mission when the change takes place in July. That is so crazy about Landon,  it just came up without knowing about it before, that is just weird. I hope that they can get it under control, I know that he will be a really great missionary. That is kinda' cool that he will get to be there for Trevor's wedding, but isn't that crazy fast, I didn't know he was that serious. Well, I guess that makes sense, since I am not around. But anyways all is well here with me, the people I am teaching are really being touched by the Lord. Did I tell you about John getting locked up for a few days last week?  He had court and they dropped his case, so he is not having to spend any time or probation, so his baptismal goals are still underway. Just so you know, he was locked up on phony charges, he is not a bad guy just getting off. I hope all is well at home, I have you all in my prayers! I hope things with track are going well and the kids are holding out well. Remember how much I love you Mom, you really are amazing!!! Thanks for all you do!

Love,

Elder Jade Merlin Grover 

Indiana - April 22, 2013

Hello Mom!!! and Family,

Well I'm going to be in Richmond for another 6 months, but having a new companion is going to be really, really weird  I hope he well be a good missionary.  I am not saying Elder Syrett was not, he is really amazing! We really have become really good friends, we just had a few difficult times, but it's not anything different than a little disagreement with a brother or anyone else that you have to spend all your time with. The work here in Richmond is doing very well.  I hope that all our investigators don't take Elder Syrett leaving too hard. They have really grown to love us, as we have grown to love them, but I hope that they are able to know that why we got so close is because we have all been coming closer to God. If they let that be the center goal, then they well be alright. But you know me, I don't like change very much, so this week is a little scary for me, but it is also very exciting. I guess I'll have to update you next week about who I am with. I was very relieved to know that I am not going to have to train; my whole district was telling me I was going to, so yeah, that was a big relief not to have to worry about that. Oh, did I tell you in a letter from one of the sisters from the district at the MTC, Sister Yardley, she started training someone after the first transfer, so she was only half-way trained herself, super amazing. But God knows that that would be too much right now.  But I am really okay with just being able to worry about the people to teach and not having to teach a missionary at the same time, when I don't even know what I am doing. But yeah, sorry for all the crazy talk about transfers, with the transfer call last night that stuff just seems to be on my mind. I hope all is well at home.  That is so cool that JoJo is going to Peru!  Very scary, but very exciting, she will do very well. It is so cool to hear that the missionary fire is continuing to grow in Blanding, exciting times. Just so you know, I really miss being able to be running in track, so I would love to be there, but God has a work for me to do here. I love you all and pray for you every day that God will continue to be with you all in all you do. 

Love, Elder Grover

Indiana - April 15, 2013

Hello Mom!!!

Well. this week was absolutely crazy! But I guess that is how it goes when the work is going well! We had some baptisms this last Saturday!  Most definatly the most amazing experience in my life! You know the family that I have been talking about, the one with 9 kids? Yeah, the oldest, Desirae, was not even going to wait for her parents to have things worked out before she was going to be baptized, so we had it set up that her and her younger Brother Jakob could be baptized. They are the greatest little kids, the spirit is very strong with them. The lord has amazing things in their future in the church, I can feel it. I am so grateful for Gods blessing to let me help them find the path that he has planned for them. We also have found a lot of amazing people, can you believe we had 9 investigators at church, not even counting Dessy and Jakob! Yeah, we sure surprised Elder Bowers our District leader.  Us too, we are way too used to having no investigators at church.  So things are really looking up here in Richmond! I am pretty sure that I will stay here because Elder Syrett has been here for 7 1/2 months. Since he is leaving, he has been going around getting pictures with everyone. It would be way sad to leave this place while the work has picked up so much! I have really come to know what the missionaries mean when they have said they love the people, I truly have come to love those of whom we teach! The Lord is most definitiely picking up his work, not just with missionaries, but he is preparing the people to receive it! It is so exciting to hear how things are at home, I hope all is well and that everyone feels good and is staying strong with the Lord as their guide, that is the only way to do it. I'll tell you next week if I all the sudden have to leave next week, but I pray that I won't, I really love it here, things are hard, but I love it! Remember that I love you, I love you all!

Love, Elder Jade Merlin Grover

Jon and Melissa's 9 great kids

The Gaar Mansion
Yes, we DID knock on this door!!  Oh yeah!!

Jakob and Desirae's baptism

At the baptism with Jon and Melissa