It's that time of year!

One thing that was fun about Korea is that there are all kinds of celebrations in winter, and two new year celebrations! New Year's Day isn't as big of a thing as it is back home, hence the wild celebration at midnight. But when the Lunar New Year rolls around, it's party time!

In which we attempt to #LightTheWorld

I LOVE the #LightTheWorld campaign! What a great way to celebrate the Christmas season — giving selfless service.

The problem we encountered, though, was that not everyone wants to receive. But we keep trying!

By the way, if you want to learn how to participate in #LightTheWorld, visit mormon.org. There's a ton of great stuff on there!

Flavor of the month

I had almost forgotten that Sis. Bae had done this for me! She was so sweet trying to help me adjust, but I was really happy that the kimchi flavor burned off all the pumpkin spice!

I saved a lot of recipes from my mission. This was not one of them!

Perspective

I was pondering the other day about everything that's been happening in the world, and I tried to put it in a gospel perspective. It isn't easy when you see innocent people hurt or suffering. But if you step back from your limited human perspective and take it to Heavenly Father's longer view, you can feel a sense of peace.

One of my favorite scriptures is this: "Behold and lo, mine eyes are upon you, and the heavens and the earth are in mine hands, and the riches of eternity are mine to give." (D&C 67:2). It's good to remember that every now and then.

I knew them, Horatio

I love General Conference! I love the General Women's Session! I'm so excited for this weekend!!!!

With all your might and zeal

It's encouraging to see so many people helping in Houston.

How can you help? Here are 7 ways. And, as the hymn says, don't forget to pray!

Pearls of Wisdom

I was recently asked what advice I might give to someone who is getting ready to go on a mission. There are lots of good ideas, starting with the basics: pray, study the scriptures, share your testimony. Be obedient. You might also want to consider studying "Preach My Gospel" before you go out so that you're more familiar with it. It's also a good idea to hang out with the missionaries serving in your area; teach with them if you can. Keep the mission rules.

Learn to listen to the Spirit. My mission president says that, "One hundred percent of missionaries are inspired by the Spirit one hundred percent of the time. You just need to learn how to listen."

That's all great advice. But I stand by my suggestion that you get a good, sturdy pair of comfortable shoes. It's even better if they're cute!