Our trial of faith

Hello family and friends,

I just wanted to start off by thanking all of our supporters for being by our side and lifting us up when we've needed it the most. It has not been an easy month for Dave and I. We have been overly stressed about the biggest day of our lives, not because of all of the people we will see or the food that will be served.. or even the presents; we have a lot weighing on us right now concerning our letter.

We chose, all the way back in November, to leave our relationship in the hands of the Lord. If things were going to work out between us it would be because Heavenly Father wanted it for us. Dave left for Basic Military Training and I continued preparing for my mission... but, both of us soon felt the promptings of the spirit to prepare for one another, not for the other things we had in mind for ourselves. As soon as I was able to fly out to Texas, I did and the rest is history.

Dave and I experienced a lot of stress as soon as he returned from Tech school. We were bombarded with trial, after trial, after trial. It seemed like we would never get through the hurdles we faced. We worked with our priesthood leaders to get the paperwork sent out for our temple clearance, we began preparing for what we COULD control and then left the rest up to Heavenly Father. The process was extremely slow, frustrating and anxiety ridden, but we remained faithful to the plan that our Father in Heaven had/has for us.

Now we are a week and a half away from what we have been striving for-- still no letter. Yes, more tears, but not a lack of faith in our Fathers plan for us.

Dave and I have both counseled with our priesthood leaders. His bishop and stake president have reminded us to be faithful and patient with the plan Heavenly Father has for us. --we are remaining so

My bishop has counseled me to wait to receive my endowment until after we receive our letter so that all of the pieces of the ultimate plan can fall into place. I have put all of my trust and faith in the words of my priesthood leader and I know that the Lord will see fit to bless both Dave and I for our willingness to be patient, faithful and trusting.

We have received some alternate views concerning how we should proceed with things, but like I said, we have been counseled by our priesthood leaders and ultimately our dear Prophet and Father in Heaven to wait for our letter before we are married and I receive my endowment-- so we are.

We will still follow what the wedding announcement says concerning our reception. Nothing will be changed with the times etc. So if you were already planning on coming, please do. Dave and I need all the support you can give us. If you cannot come we understand.

As soon as Dave and I hear from the first presidency we will let EVERYONE (and their dog) know. We both feel that our time is soon- we just have to remain faithful.

Please call me if you have any questions.

Dave and I love you all so much!
Thanks again for the support and love. Every time I read a supportive email I start bawling-- it's good to hear from those who support our decision to wait for the go-ahead from our prophet to be married.

Love,
Shina