February 25, 2008

The work here is going extremely well. One thing I have noticed is the harder I work the happier I am. The happier I am, the more I baptize. I have really tried to put that into my mission, because it's totally true.
I am still serving in Elk Grove with another companion, Elder B. He is from Spring City, Utah (wherever that is?).
We are having a lot of success. Not to say there are not some hard, frustrating moments, but for the most part things have been great. That's totally how the mission is-- it can be a roller coaster, but there isn't a part that doesn't end up being rewarding.
Preston is getting baptized on March 8th. I am doing that baptism and it is exactly my 7th month mark as well. He is such a stud. We teach him every single day and after each time he ask us, "are we doing this again tomorrow?" He's on fire! I love it. He has just been through so much in his life. It's hard for me to even imagine. Our trials we face (at least mine) are so small and insignificant in comparison. I am so grateful that I'm able to work with him. As of right now, we are trying to find him a bed because he sleeps on the floor.
Judy is doing okay. The smoking is really taking a toll on her and it's hard and sad to see. We love her so much. She comes to church and loves it! She loves the Relief Society and our ward has really been great to her. I know she will progress and she will be so blessed for it.
I am doing good. The work is going great. We are keeping really busy. The rain has been coming down pretty bad! That sure hasn't stopped us! I seriously love it out here. It seems like every day I learn something new-- not only in my mission life, but also in life in general. I am so grateful for that. I am so grateful for my parents, sisters and Abby that love and support me and so many friends and family as well.
We get a new mission president in 2 1/2 transfers. It's going to be so hard to see him go.

Love,
Elder S.