April 24: Day One

(This was the letter sent the day she entered the MTC)

FAMILIA!

I have almost zero time but know that I LOVE you and you shouldn't be too sad because I'm not. Chin up, buttercups! Today was great! My companion, Hermana Christensen is from Lehi and is ADORABLE! We were not too busy today so I thought, but I am definitely mentally drained! I've learned a few things of Spanish...mostly just trying to switch my mindset.

Missionary work is great! I was almost discouraged when we got back to the halls--the day was so overwhelming. Then I opened up and talked and chatted and forced myself to be happy. (I also sang the song, "Smile" by Natalie Cole and that helped. Then guess what--I became happy! The moment you feel yourself slipping, DON'T!

Choose to be happy and force yourself, if needs be. There are too many things to be happy about. Momma, no worries, I'll sent another letter tomorrow, our sister mission trainer people told us we can respond to family letters on any day. All email on P-Day.

MUCHAS AMORE!

Love, Love, Love,
Hermana Harkness

Wednesday April 24th: Goodbye!

Hermana Harkness left yesterday (Wednesday, April 24th) to enter the Provo MTC. It was a wonderful experience being able to drop her off. Beforehand we went to lunch at Thankgiving Point's Harvest restaurant. The beautiful missionary ordered a Turkey Avocado Sandwich...her ultimate favorite.

When saying goodbye to Grandpa Long he said, "I'll just text you!" The reality of having to communicate through email hadn't set in yet.

Hermana Harkness was whisked away by her lovely host. Go get em!

We're so excited for her many adventures, as well as the people she will influence (which will be many). As Hermana Harkness left us at the MTC she ran into friends and people she already new. We look forward to hearing from her soon!