this is it

Here it is . . . my last e-mail as a full-time missionary. Honestly, reality has been hitting me like a bag of bricks on and off these past couple days. Sometimes it feels like it's all about to end, and other times it just feels like nothing is going to happen . . .I should be staying. There will be a part of me that will be left here in Finland that I cannot bring with me back to America. All this talk of firesides and giving talks is making me wonder if I'll even be able to adequately describe it all. There are so many experiences and so many things that have happened that to try and express them in tongue is close to impossible! Needless to say though, I am excited to see you all again and I pray that I can figure out how to adjust my new life into the world I am about to step in . . .for I truly want to return . . .''another way.''

This past week has kept me busy, something that has helped my mind stay focused. We had 2 splits here in Vaasa, one with the Zone Leaders and another with the elders from Pietarsaari. We also held my final District Meeting and finished it off with a member making us a delicious meal. I like to title all my District Meetings . . .so this last one was called 'Keepin' it Real.' I was inspired to talk about the true 'reality' of things (ie. our callings, teaching, studying, praying, testimonies, etc) I chose this subject because of a talk from the most recent General Conference be the 2nd counselor in the Sunday School Presidency, Elder Richardson. It went really well, in fact, I feel like it was one of the most spiritual district meetings that I've had.

Apart from finishing my last week . . we helped our branch president build a bit of his house. He had to install some huge heavy windows and had to enlist some help. That was quite the adventure. It took 6 of us to just lift one window for a few seconds, haha.

One of my old companions is coming here to Vaasa to fill me spot, Elder Cassity . . .he's going to do great things here . . .I was glad to hear the news.

Well, I best be off. I could go on into crazy detail about everything and more, but,  . . . well . . . I'll see you in a matter of hours anyways! . . . .Gotta have something to talk about!
Thank you all for the amazing help you've provided me in these short 2 years of service. I need it still as I return and try and put my life in order and apply what I've learned here.
I know that Jesus is the Christ. He is REAL. His Atonement is REAL. His love is REAL. This life is REAL . . .a time of service, a time of learning, a time of labor, a time of happiness, a time of preparation for the eternities awaiting us. My mission has been REAL to me. It REALLY feels like my time has come . . like my purpose here has been fulfilled. Now. . . life calls.  I love you and I'll talk to you soon.

signing off, paljon rakkaudella, 
Vanhin Watson