Hello,

Monticello is by far one of my favorite places on the entire planet. I love the people here and the relationships that are being built will last a life time. With my current companion, he is reaching the end of his mission. Actually, I am taking him to Farmington tonight and picking up my brand new companion tomorrow morning. Not sure what his name is, but he's from the MTC! Anyways,
people have often asked Elder Anderson what his favorite thing and take away from the mission was and he said the relationships that he has built. There couldn't be anything more true than this. I've only been out 7 months, and already I can see that the friendships that are built while out here is what makes the work worth it. One of the most rewarding aspects is when we are able to help the people we have made the relationships with to come closer to  Christ. Whether it be member, investigator, less active, whatever they are. It doesn't matter. They are all children of God and need to come closer to His Son. 

Lately the most rewarding family to work with has been the Hallidays. I'm not sure if I have talked about them in the mass email or not because I talk about them to everyone. They are incredible and never cease to amaze me. I write this with the full confidence with knowing that they would be okay with it. Adam and Kim have both had to overcome some addictions in their life. After much travail and due diligence, they have been able to clean up their lives and be sober for the past 27 months. They have both grown up in the church, but have fallen away. The timing must have been perfect because they have never ever let the missionaries in their house before. Something that was said, I'm not sure what, when we first met them led Kim to allow us to come over. 

Ever since meeting with them they have shone with the Light of Christ and have "felt to sing the song of redeeming love". They have "tasted as I have tasted and have seen eye to eye as I have seen". They know of the power of the Atonement and know what it means to apply the Saviors atoning sacrifice in their lives. I think every single one of us can learn something from them. No matter where you're at. Be it a Bishop, a deacon, a beehive, everyday student, it doesn't matter. The principle of recognizing our weaknesses and taking it to the Lord is something we should all continually be doing. 

Kim and Adam have been progressing like no one I've seen before. Every time we leave them a commitment, they keep it. Every time we invite them to step outside of their comfort zone just a little bit, they accept with a willing heart. Being able to help them grow has developed a very very deep love for them and their daughter. Someday, and maybe someday soon, they will go to the temple. A family who has been through the ringer, and have stained their clothes, but have been washed clean. What an amazing family they are.

I love you all so much and hope you can all continue to look for your weaknesses and recognize "your own nothingness, and the greatness of God". I promise as you do happiness and mysteries to your life will unfold before your eyes.

Elder Sandberg