God will force no man to Heaven...

Dearest, wonderfullest, most excellent family,

It's 12* outside, but the light of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ keeps me warm!! We have had quite the snow storm the last 30 hours... It started snowing at about 7:00 yesterday morning and snowed all during the day. After sacrament meeting, they sent everyone home because of the winter weather advisory we were under-- well, everyone except those in the choir practice and tithing settlement :)-- When we finally slipped and slided our way home, we got a phone call telling us we were 'grounded' and not a lowed to drive. Fine by me- It's scary driving over snow! Haha, however, a missionary apartment isn't the most entertaining place to spend your time being snowed in. We napped, played a rousing game of Stratego, wrote Christmas cards, ate dinner, and studied. Not too bad-- but I was definitely happy when the 'grounding' was lifted today!

So, Jeff isn't getting baptized on the 24th-- he just couldn't quit smoking in time. I think he's holding onto his cigarettes as an excuse to not get baptized yet. I think he only half wants it-- and like the hymn says, "God will force no man to heaven". He has to want it and work hard to get it. He needs to be truly converted and he just isn't quite there yet.

BUT-- we prayed about a date to extend to the Saunders and the 24th of December is the date Heavenly Father told us to have them work towards. They were excited about that and they are making such HUGE strides as a family. I just know Heavenly Father has big plans in store for them! Marla and Lee told us they hardly fight at all anymore and those sweet little boys now fold their arms, close their eyes, and say "amen" when we pray! The gospel of Jesus Christ truly DOES bless families! They want the blessings and are willing to work for them!

I love this gospel. I love being a missionary. I love my Savior, Jesus Christ. The gospel is true and families are FOREVER! <3

Merry Christmas---12 days :)

Happy Birthday tomorrow, Daddy. LOVE YOU!

Love,
Sister Chelsea LeSueur