Hi there! (points to anyone who imagined that in Dug's voice)
This week has absolutely flown by. It has been so fast, seriously. I'm fairly sure that yesterday was last Monday, but yesterday was actually Sunday, so yes, a full week has indeed passed by. But yeah, we've been rather busy this week, and by busy I mean we've been contacting like crazy. We had actually run out of investigators (progressing or otherwise), so we had to do quite a bit of contacting to find more people to teach. Well, we found people alright. We found 6 families this week and 21 new investigators, so that was pretty good. Some of them are already progressing very well towards actually coming unto Christ, and some aren't quite as far along, but that's why we're here! To help people come unto Christ. I get the impression that a lot of people still think that the reason I'm out here is just to baptize people, and that isn't it at all. Yes, I am here to baptize people, but that's because baptism is the door to the path to eternal life. We're here to start them on the path and make sure that they have the foundations necessary to remain on that path for this life and after death, too. Sure, it's nice to have a baptism, but it's even nicer to see that person want to follow Christ, and not just for a moment in thier baptism, but for the rest of their lives. We baptize people so that they can have the opportunity to return to live with our Heavenly Father again, and to receive eternal life. Not everyone has the chance to live in God's presence again, but that's why we're out here, to give people that opportunity. Only through baptism by the correct authority do we have the ability to live in God's presence again, and so we're also here to baptize people, knowing that it's a prerequisite for eternal life. So that's our purpose here; to invite people to come unto Christ by helping them understand and receive the restored Gospel of Jesus Christ, which is; faith, repentance, baptism by immersion, reception of the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands, and enduring to the end (that was almost difficult to write in English). It's only an invitation, but we hope and pray with everything that we've got that someone will accept our invitation.
Just wondering, who wrote the little bit of Spanish in the beginning of the letter to me this week? Whoever did, good job for correct conjugations and everything! [It was Madre - with the help of Google Translate.]
I am absolutely loving it out here. Some of you might think that I'm just saying that so that you won't worry about me, but I honestly, 100% am telling the truth when I say that I am loving it here and wouldn't leave here right now for anything. I have a job to do here. Countless people are depending on me to help them see what they've been missing in their lives, to save them from themselves and the world, and to help them remember the blessings that they've received from our Heavenly Father. I have a sacred calling matched only by a handful in the world. I am here saying and doing what the Lord would say and do, because I have been called by God and set apart by those with the authority and priesthood of God to be a representative of Jesus Christ, the Creator of the World, our Savior and Redeemer. My calling is more important to me than anything else right now, and I wouldn't dare think of coming home. What if I did come home now? How many people wouldn't receive the Gospel because I went home? How many people would have been able to be sealed as a family in the temple if I hadn't gone home? How many people could I have helped save from possibly dying because of addictions or leading dangerous lifestyles? The importance of my work here, the Lord's work, is just too great to even toy with the idea of going home.
The investigators that we have now are doing pretty well. We have some getting ready for baptism in the upcoming weeks, including one this week (a 16 year old mom of a 2 year old actually) and a few in the next week. We even found out that some of the people that I thought were members at church were actually investigators that just attended a lot, and now we have lessons with them lined up, so they might be able to get baptized this week (provided they're married)! That'd be really cool, but we'll see how things work out.
I'm getting along with Elder Larrea very well. I'd send you a photo, but I haven't got a photo of us, so you'll have to wait till next week. Sorry! But yeah, we're doing well together. He teaches very well, which I kinda would expect from someone that only has 2 months left. I've also found that I like having more responsibility. More responsibility makes me work harder and makes me more confident, too, which almost sounds backwards, but it's true. Elder Buckland commented that I seemed more confident, and that it was even apparent in my Spanish, so that's cool. Oh, also, there have been questions about how my Spanish is coming, and if we look at the recent surveys taken, it's coming along fantastically. Elder Larrea was kinda showing off my Spanish to investigators for the first couple of days that we were together, and it still comes up in lessons that I've only been on my mission for 4 months but I can speak Spanish rather well. I can basically understand everything, but of course there are still some times when I am mostly completely lost. Almost everyone says that my Spanish is awesome though, so it must be pretty good. I can only really talk fluently during lessons (chuzo, I had to think how to spell lessons because lecciónes is just more natural), but that's probably because I'm rather full of the Spirit at that time, so that helps. But yeah, I'm definitely getting there.
Oh, cool happening, we contacted a SWAT-esque police officer one day. We didn't really mean to, we just noticed that there were rather a lot of these officers standing around, so Elder Larrea asked what happened, then the officer asked who we were. We said that we were missionaries from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (okay, we actually said, "Somos misionarios de la Iglesia de Jesucristo de los Santos de los Últimos Días," but that's just a technicality), and he asked, "¿Cúal es su misión?" I actually almost laughed when he said that, because here's this SWAT guy with his semi-auto rifle (Ruger Mini-14...not that I noticed or anything), Ray Ban sunglasses, and his green barret asking a couple of missionaries "What is your mission?" It just struck me as funny. But anyway, we actually started talking to him for a couple of minutes, and he was actually really interested in us. He found it very interesting that we don't receive any money for our service, and that we actually pay to have the opportunity to spread the Gospel. We left him with a pamphlet and unfortunately didn't get to get his name or address or anything because he got called to go somewhere else, but it was still pretty cool. Also, we still don't know what was going on that caused this gathering of police officers, but that's okay!
Well, time to wrap up. OH. POUCH CAME. FINALLY. A month without pouch is a rather long time. It might have even been a little longer than a month, but either way, I was way happy to get pouch. So, like I said last week, this week I'll be sending out a letter package, and hopefully I'll have the time to write a few letters (there are rather a few to write). Thank you all for writting to me! I absolutely love hearing from you and hearing about what's going on in your lives. Keep up the good work!
Oh, family! Good job with doing all that you're doing! You're doing a great job. Jeffrey, a word of advice: finding a job is in of itself a full-time job. Just a little to think about. Mom, especially to you, congratulations! I am so proud of all that you're doing to lose weight and to finish your education. You are doing and exemplary job at being amazing. Also, Grandma sent me photos of Mother's Day, and I can see the difference already! Good job! Keep up the good work!
I love you all, and I hope that you all keep well and in good spirits. Keep praying and reading the scriptures every day (that's not just to my family or Latter-day Saints, either), and you will be blessed. It's a promise that we have from God, and He doesn't break His promises. I love you, and keep on keeping on! Cuidense!
Love,
Elder Schomburg
Monday, June 13, 2011
Monday, June 6, 2011
Week 18.5
Hello there everyone!
So, here I am, first day of my first companion change, and I'm doing pretty well so far. Elder Huarahuara left yesterday afternoon, so I had to spend the rest of the day with the zone leaders. It was a bit weird sending him off, but it was weirder when I met my new companion and knew that I wouldn't be working with Elder Huarahuara again. Also, I received my new compañero today. His name is Elder Larrea. He was already in our zone, actually, so I kinda know him already. Apparently he's not the most obedient of missionaries right now, but I think that's because he's "trunky" (ready to go home and such). I'll have to make sure that I work hard and be a good example, which I'm sure that I can do. He's from Peru, and he ends his mission the first week of August. Looks like I'm gonna "kill" another missionary ("killing" a missionary is when you are their last companion and send them home). That'll make two in a row. Oh, also, I'm now el compañero mayor, or senior companion. For a long time I thought that I was going to be district leader too, and the zone leaders even said that they wanted me to be district leader, but Elder Buckland is now district leader, which I'm just fine with. I'll take my extra responsibility a little at a time. Oh, and I'm still in La Concordia.
There's one family in particular that you could pray for, if you felt so inclined. They're the Mera Vallejo (Mauricio and Monica) family. They're progressing very well, but they had an interview with President Sloan and he said that he needs to get permission from Elder Nash I believe to baptize them, so extra prayers for them would be good.
I'm very glad to hear that you had the missionaries over for dinner Saturday. I'm sure that they really appreciated that. Also, that's pretty cool that Elder Silva entered the field the same day as I did. But since he's state-side, I have more time, right?
I'm very glad to hear that Jeffrey and Elizabeth are all trying new things. That's pretty darn exciting. Also, no offense to Jeffrey, but it's very odd to think that he's in a choir; moreso that he volunteered to be in the choir. Also, good luck on your campout Elizabeth! I know I'm a bit late, but these things happen.
Also, please don't worry about my stomach issues. I'm doing fine now, and if I didn't have some sort of stomach issues once in awhile, I would be a freak among the North American elders. In the beginning we all have issues, and everyone gains a bit of weight from all the rice that we eat. I don't think you guys understand just how much rice we eat. Unless we make the food ourselves, there's always rice as the main part of the meal. ALWAYS. Also, "stomach problems" and "bicicleta" mean diarrhea. It's just something that happens. I'm really ding okay, don't worry please.
I'm glad to hear that you got another letter package. What was the date of the letters you received? I didn't get to send a package this week because 1) the mail office moved, and I have to find it now (they posted the address, I just have to find the time to find it), and 2) I haven't received pouch for a month now, so I didn't write many letters, only 1. I may have to send letters less frequently, maybe only the weeks that I do receive pouch. That way I'll know what to write. Also, a lot of the time I don't have much time to write letters, even on P-days. Sorry about the inconveniences. Hopefully pouch comes this week. We kinda need it, because we've been out of Books of Mormon and planners for awhile. Also, I miss hearing from all you guys, so it'd be nice to have a little pouch this week. But thus is the life of a missionary, and the work goes on!
Oh, fun story, and a first of the mission! So, Elder Rodriguez and I were on splits, and while we were contacting a lady some dogs came running around the corner of her house. Her door is fairly close to the corner of the house, so I didn't even see the dogs till they were on top of us, and I received my first dog bite from a Jack Russel mutt. It didn't break the skin or anything, but it didn't feel that great, either. I was just fine (and still am), it was just a bit shocking, and I thought I'd relate that story since Jeffrey's always asking if I've been attacked by any dogs yet. So yes, I was attacked by one dog, and I'm grateful it was the Jack Russel that bit me and not the German Sheperd that was with him.
Well, I think that's about all I have to say for this week. I'm sure I'll have more to say next week after I've had a bit to get to know Elder Larrea more and to find out what it means to be senior companion. I was horribly nervous earlier in the week, but eventually I remembered that no matter what I'm called to do, the Lord will help me through it, because for everthing that the Lord commands of me, he has already created the way to accomplish that thing. Also, in Priesthood yesterday we learned more about the Savior, so by the end of yesterday I was ready for anything. I'm still ready, and I'll keep on working hard. Even harder now, seeing as I have more responsibility. I just have to remember that I can do it.
I love you all very much, and I hope you are all doing well. Keep strong, and remember the Lord in all that you do. He will help you all, too. He's promised that he will. I will talk to you all later. Bye!
Love,
Elder Schomburg
P.S. I'm used to the jokes about my feet. People here are always amazed at how big my feet are, and they always tell me that it's impossible to buy shoes here in my size. They've been compared to clown shoes recently (last night actually). Just thought you guys would like an extra little laugh. Bye! Love you all!
So, here I am, first day of my first companion change, and I'm doing pretty well so far. Elder Huarahuara left yesterday afternoon, so I had to spend the rest of the day with the zone leaders. It was a bit weird sending him off, but it was weirder when I met my new companion and knew that I wouldn't be working with Elder Huarahuara again. Also, I received my new compañero today. His name is Elder Larrea. He was already in our zone, actually, so I kinda know him already. Apparently he's not the most obedient of missionaries right now, but I think that's because he's "trunky" (ready to go home and such). I'll have to make sure that I work hard and be a good example, which I'm sure that I can do. He's from Peru, and he ends his mission the first week of August. Looks like I'm gonna "kill" another missionary ("killing" a missionary is when you are their last companion and send them home). That'll make two in a row. Oh, also, I'm now el compañero mayor, or senior companion. For a long time I thought that I was going to be district leader too, and the zone leaders even said that they wanted me to be district leader, but Elder Buckland is now district leader, which I'm just fine with. I'll take my extra responsibility a little at a time. Oh, and I'm still in La Concordia.
There's one family in particular that you could pray for, if you felt so inclined. They're the Mera Vallejo (Mauricio and Monica) family. They're progressing very well, but they had an interview with President Sloan and he said that he needs to get permission from Elder Nash I believe to baptize them, so extra prayers for them would be good.
I'm very glad to hear that you had the missionaries over for dinner Saturday. I'm sure that they really appreciated that. Also, that's pretty cool that Elder Silva entered the field the same day as I did. But since he's state-side, I have more time, right?
I'm very glad to hear that Jeffrey and Elizabeth are all trying new things. That's pretty darn exciting. Also, no offense to Jeffrey, but it's very odd to think that he's in a choir; moreso that he volunteered to be in the choir. Also, good luck on your campout Elizabeth! I know I'm a bit late, but these things happen.
Also, please don't worry about my stomach issues. I'm doing fine now, and if I didn't have some sort of stomach issues once in awhile, I would be a freak among the North American elders. In the beginning we all have issues, and everyone gains a bit of weight from all the rice that we eat. I don't think you guys understand just how much rice we eat. Unless we make the food ourselves, there's always rice as the main part of the meal. ALWAYS. Also, "stomach problems" and "bicicleta" mean diarrhea. It's just something that happens. I'm really ding okay, don't worry please.
I'm glad to hear that you got another letter package. What was the date of the letters you received? I didn't get to send a package this week because 1) the mail office moved, and I have to find it now (they posted the address, I just have to find the time to find it), and 2) I haven't received pouch for a month now, so I didn't write many letters, only 1. I may have to send letters less frequently, maybe only the weeks that I do receive pouch. That way I'll know what to write. Also, a lot of the time I don't have much time to write letters, even on P-days. Sorry about the inconveniences. Hopefully pouch comes this week. We kinda need it, because we've been out of Books of Mormon and planners for awhile. Also, I miss hearing from all you guys, so it'd be nice to have a little pouch this week. But thus is the life of a missionary, and the work goes on!
Oh, fun story, and a first of the mission! So, Elder Rodriguez and I were on splits, and while we were contacting a lady some dogs came running around the corner of her house. Her door is fairly close to the corner of the house, so I didn't even see the dogs till they were on top of us, and I received my first dog bite from a Jack Russel mutt. It didn't break the skin or anything, but it didn't feel that great, either. I was just fine (and still am), it was just a bit shocking, and I thought I'd relate that story since Jeffrey's always asking if I've been attacked by any dogs yet. So yes, I was attacked by one dog, and I'm grateful it was the Jack Russel that bit me and not the German Sheperd that was with him.
Well, I think that's about all I have to say for this week. I'm sure I'll have more to say next week after I've had a bit to get to know Elder Larrea more and to find out what it means to be senior companion. I was horribly nervous earlier in the week, but eventually I remembered that no matter what I'm called to do, the Lord will help me through it, because for everthing that the Lord commands of me, he has already created the way to accomplish that thing. Also, in Priesthood yesterday we learned more about the Savior, so by the end of yesterday I was ready for anything. I'm still ready, and I'll keep on working hard. Even harder now, seeing as I have more responsibility. I just have to remember that I can do it.
I love you all very much, and I hope you are all doing well. Keep strong, and remember the Lord in all that you do. He will help you all, too. He's promised that he will. I will talk to you all later. Bye!
Love,
Elder Schomburg
P.S. I'm used to the jokes about my feet. People here are always amazed at how big my feet are, and they always tell me that it's impossible to buy shoes here in my size. They've been compared to clown shoes recently (last night actually). Just thought you guys would like an extra little laugh. Bye! Love you all!
Monday, May 30, 2011
4 months in
Hello there everyone!
So, here I am, a tad more than 4 months in, and I've realized something; I only have 4 months in my mission. It seems like it's gone by super fast, especially my time in the field, but on the other hand, I have 20 more months. Dang. Well, I'll just keep swimming!
We didn't get to hear from Elder Scott this week because he didn't come. I don't know why he didn't come, but it's okay because Elder Walter F. Gonzalez of the Presidency of the Seventy came, and so did Elder Hooker, also of the Seventy. They did a kinda Q&A type thing, so that was cool. The coolest thing was how they always had an answer for everything almost immediately, and they had at least three scriptural references for each answer. It was really pretty cool. I probably didn't get the full effect of the conference though because I've had some stomach problems this week (they were the worst on Thursday of course), and we had to wake up at 5 that morning to travel to Quito, so I was a bit wiped out. I did realize that I need to study even more so that I can have answers to questions like Elder Gonzalez and Elder Hooker did. That was pretty cool.
So Elder Huarahuara leaves this Sunday. Only 6 more days with him, and then...I don't know what. I really don't know what happens next because changes aren't for another 3 weeks. Also, I don't know who will be the next district leader, if I'll be moved up to senior companion...I just don't know! So this upcoming week will be interesting to say the least. We'll see what happens.
The work here seems to both be picking up and slowing down. A lot of our investigators don't seem to be progressing, but we have several that are progressing pretty well. Also...oh for heaven's sake, how did I forget to talk about baptisms?? Okay, anyway, we had 3 baptisms this week, two for us and one for Elders Buckland and Rodriguez. I'm always amazed at the appreciation that people show for the work that we do. This time it was the parents of Jisela (she's the taller one in the pictures) and Genesis (she's not the taller one) who were appreciative. The dad even gave us, all of us, hugs! That was really amazing to see his gratitude. It was also very nice to baptize them because they've been working with a lot of different missionaries for awhile I guess. The parents are in the process of getting married, so hopefully they'll be baptized next!
Oh yeah, that's a problem here, marriage. Most people are together as a couple, they live together and do everything that a married couple does, but they're not married. Whatmore, they don't want to get married or don't see a need to get married. It's a bit ridiculous sometimes when we meet a couple who have been together for 50 or more years and they're not married, and then they say they need to get to know the other better before they get married. That drives me up the wall, but these things happen. Also, when I get back, I will know all about get married in Ecuador. We arrange a lot of weddings here. Weird, isn't it? But yeah, that's that.
As for whether you should fix up the van or put it out of it's misery, I'd go for the latter, but that's just me. And if you want to know how I'd do it, ask Jeffrey. He probably knows.
Pouch didn't come again this week, so it'll probably come Thursdayish. Hopefully, cause I haven't heard from people or received any important news for going on 3 weeks, maybe more. I don't really remember, but it's been awhile.
I'm glad to hear that everyone is doing well and enjoying summer break. Also, I'm glad I at least look good in photos, because I've definitely put on a few pounds. My pants are definitely a bit tighter, which kinda makes me sad, but there's not a lot I can do about it here. Sigh. I guess I'll have to fix that when I get back, or maybe try to do some sort of ab workouts in the mornings. Oh well, thus is the life of a missionary.
Well, time to go. This time next week I'll be with a different companion (or in a trio temporarily), so that'll be interesting. I'll have to find out what to do for my music, because I've been listening to Elder Huarahuara's (he has it on a USB drive and has a stereo that uses the drive...actually, that's what EVERYBODY has here, missionaries included), and he's gonna be leaving. I'll figure something out. Anyway, I love you all, and thank you for all your support. I'll talk to you later!
Love,
Elder Schomburg
So, here I am, a tad more than 4 months in, and I've realized something; I only have 4 months in my mission. It seems like it's gone by super fast, especially my time in the field, but on the other hand, I have 20 more months. Dang. Well, I'll just keep swimming!
We didn't get to hear from Elder Scott this week because he didn't come. I don't know why he didn't come, but it's okay because Elder Walter F. Gonzalez of the Presidency of the Seventy came, and so did Elder Hooker, also of the Seventy. They did a kinda Q&A type thing, so that was cool. The coolest thing was how they always had an answer for everything almost immediately, and they had at least three scriptural references for each answer. It was really pretty cool. I probably didn't get the full effect of the conference though because I've had some stomach problems this week (they were the worst on Thursday of course), and we had to wake up at 5 that morning to travel to Quito, so I was a bit wiped out. I did realize that I need to study even more so that I can have answers to questions like Elder Gonzalez and Elder Hooker did. That was pretty cool.
So Elder Huarahuara leaves this Sunday. Only 6 more days with him, and then...I don't know what. I really don't know what happens next because changes aren't for another 3 weeks. Also, I don't know who will be the next district leader, if I'll be moved up to senior companion...I just don't know! So this upcoming week will be interesting to say the least. We'll see what happens.
The work here seems to both be picking up and slowing down. A lot of our investigators don't seem to be progressing, but we have several that are progressing pretty well. Also...oh for heaven's sake, how did I forget to talk about baptisms?? Okay, anyway, we had 3 baptisms this week, two for us and one for Elders Buckland and Rodriguez. I'm always amazed at the appreciation that people show for the work that we do. This time it was the parents of Jisela (she's the taller one in the pictures) and Genesis (she's not the taller one) who were appreciative. The dad even gave us, all of us, hugs! That was really amazing to see his gratitude. It was also very nice to baptize them because they've been working with a lot of different missionaries for awhile I guess. The parents are in the process of getting married, so hopefully they'll be baptized next!
Oh yeah, that's a problem here, marriage. Most people are together as a couple, they live together and do everything that a married couple does, but they're not married. Whatmore, they don't want to get married or don't see a need to get married. It's a bit ridiculous sometimes when we meet a couple who have been together for 50 or more years and they're not married, and then they say they need to get to know the other better before they get married. That drives me up the wall, but these things happen. Also, when I get back, I will know all about get married in Ecuador. We arrange a lot of weddings here. Weird, isn't it? But yeah, that's that.
As for whether you should fix up the van or put it out of it's misery, I'd go for the latter, but that's just me. And if you want to know how I'd do it, ask Jeffrey. He probably knows.
Pouch didn't come again this week, so it'll probably come Thursdayish. Hopefully, cause I haven't heard from people or received any important news for going on 3 weeks, maybe more. I don't really remember, but it's been awhile.
I'm glad to hear that everyone is doing well and enjoying summer break. Also, I'm glad I at least look good in photos, because I've definitely put on a few pounds. My pants are definitely a bit tighter, which kinda makes me sad, but there's not a lot I can do about it here. Sigh. I guess I'll have to fix that when I get back, or maybe try to do some sort of ab workouts in the mornings. Oh well, thus is the life of a missionary.
Well, time to go. This time next week I'll be with a different companion (or in a trio temporarily), so that'll be interesting. I'll have to find out what to do for my music, because I've been listening to Elder Huarahuara's (he has it on a USB drive and has a stereo that uses the drive...actually, that's what EVERYBODY has here, missionaries included), and he's gonna be leaving. I'll figure something out. Anyway, I love you all, and thank you for all your support. I'll talk to you later!
Love,
Elder Schomburg
Monday, May 23, 2011
Another update from the field!
Hello all!
So, I found out how to include pictures! Turns out you just have to find a newer computer to use. So here I am, sending pictures in my emails! Hopefully they'll send. Anyway, enjoy! [He did send photos, but blogger doesn't like them. I WILL figure out how to share them.]
This week was pretty good. We had 4 baptizms this week, which was very nice. 1 was a branch baptizm and the other 3 were investigators; Sabino, his wife Vicenta, and Sabino's mom, Santa. They are amazing, and the baptizms were amazing too. Before their baptizms they were a bit timid and nervous (except Sabino, he was just rearing to go), and Santa almost backed out at one point, but they all received their baptizms. Afterwards, they were all so very thankful for what we had done for them. They're the only ones thus far that have thanked me for baptizing them, and I could tell that they really, truly have been converted. It was rather amazing.
I'm glad you're actually getting my mail. I honestly don't remember how many packages I've sent. It's not that I'm sending tons of packages, I just don't have room for stuff like that in my head. I sent another package this Thursday, so hopefully you'll get that one too. Speaking of packages, you told me to say anything that I wanted or need. Well, I don't really need anything, I seem to be doing pretty well. Candy is always welcome (M&Ms, Twizzlers, Skittles), and so are Cliff Bars and peanut butter. I found that I really love Cliff Bars, and peanut butter is amazing on french toast, especially when made into a double-decker pb&j. And I did get the photos you sent. Thanks! I loved them.
Wow. I kinda almost feel like I don't have a lot more to say. OH. On Thursday all the missionaries in the mission are going to Quito. And what could cause such a large gathering of missionaries? It'd have to be something very important, right? Like, an apostle coming or something, right? Well, it just so happens that Elder Scott is going to be in town, and we've all been invited to hear a talk especially for us missionaries! I'm kinda excited about that. It's not every day you get to meet an apostle, after all. It's going to be a long day, because we have to travel to Quito and get there before 3, then we have the talk, and then we might have to travel back the same day. That's at least 7 hours of just traveling. But it'll be so worth it. I can't wait.
It's summer here now. I don't really like summer here so much. I don't know why your weather ticker thing says it's cooler, because it's not. It's hotter, and drier. It doesn't rain anymore, it just gets hot. Also, there are always clouds, as in mostly overcast all the time, which I don't like so much. I like seeing the sky and the sun. But alas, thus is life. I'll get over it. The short time I'm in Quito will be nice.
Now I don't know if I have any more to say, so I'll wrap things up. Sorry for the shortness, but sometimes there just isn't a lot to say. I'm so very proud of all that my siblings are doing. Congratulations on the Outstanding Junior award Jeffrey! Just look at how far you've come. From basically hating school to being outstanding at school and loving it, and really showing what you're capable of doing. Great job. And Elizabeth! I was so sad to hear that your duet and solo didn't get recorded! You'll have to find a way to sing and record yourself again, 'cause I wanna hear! Robby, keep being 8, and give Ember, Bijou, and Catalina a hug for me please. Oh, and what's dad up to these days? Anything special or anything? Okay, well, I'm gonna go now. I love you all very much. Keep staying strong, and keep doing what you're doing. I love you!
Love,
Elder Schomburg
So, I found out how to include pictures! Turns out you just have to find a newer computer to use. So here I am, sending pictures in my emails! Hopefully they'll send. Anyway, enjoy! [He did send photos, but blogger doesn't like them. I WILL figure out how to share them.]
This week was pretty good. We had 4 baptizms this week, which was very nice. 1 was a branch baptizm and the other 3 were investigators; Sabino, his wife Vicenta, and Sabino's mom, Santa. They are amazing, and the baptizms were amazing too. Before their baptizms they were a bit timid and nervous (except Sabino, he was just rearing to go), and Santa almost backed out at one point, but they all received their baptizms. Afterwards, they were all so very thankful for what we had done for them. They're the only ones thus far that have thanked me for baptizing them, and I could tell that they really, truly have been converted. It was rather amazing.
I'm glad you're actually getting my mail. I honestly don't remember how many packages I've sent. It's not that I'm sending tons of packages, I just don't have room for stuff like that in my head. I sent another package this Thursday, so hopefully you'll get that one too. Speaking of packages, you told me to say anything that I wanted or need. Well, I don't really need anything, I seem to be doing pretty well. Candy is always welcome (M&Ms, Twizzlers, Skittles), and so are Cliff Bars and peanut butter. I found that I really love Cliff Bars, and peanut butter is amazing on french toast, especially when made into a double-decker pb&j. And I did get the photos you sent. Thanks! I loved them.
Wow. I kinda almost feel like I don't have a lot more to say. OH. On Thursday all the missionaries in the mission are going to Quito. And what could cause such a large gathering of missionaries? It'd have to be something very important, right? Like, an apostle coming or something, right? Well, it just so happens that Elder Scott is going to be in town, and we've all been invited to hear a talk especially for us missionaries! I'm kinda excited about that. It's not every day you get to meet an apostle, after all. It's going to be a long day, because we have to travel to Quito and get there before 3, then we have the talk, and then we might have to travel back the same day. That's at least 7 hours of just traveling. But it'll be so worth it. I can't wait.
It's summer here now. I don't really like summer here so much. I don't know why your weather ticker thing says it's cooler, because it's not. It's hotter, and drier. It doesn't rain anymore, it just gets hot. Also, there are always clouds, as in mostly overcast all the time, which I don't like so much. I like seeing the sky and the sun. But alas, thus is life. I'll get over it. The short time I'm in Quito will be nice.
Now I don't know if I have any more to say, so I'll wrap things up. Sorry for the shortness, but sometimes there just isn't a lot to say. I'm so very proud of all that my siblings are doing. Congratulations on the Outstanding Junior award Jeffrey! Just look at how far you've come. From basically hating school to being outstanding at school and loving it, and really showing what you're capable of doing. Great job. And Elizabeth! I was so sad to hear that your duet and solo didn't get recorded! You'll have to find a way to sing and record yourself again, 'cause I wanna hear! Robby, keep being 8, and give Ember, Bijou, and Catalina a hug for me please. Oh, and what's dad up to these days? Anything special or anything? Okay, well, I'm gonna go now. I love you all very much. Keep staying strong, and keep doing what you're doing. I love you!
Love,
Elder Schomburg
Monday, May 16, 2011
Semana...uh....casi mes 4....yo creo...
Hello there!
So here I am, writting again because suddenly it's Monday again! The days really do seem to be flying by, which is both good and bad. I am doing very well this day, and as always am pressed for time, so I'll write what I can.
Teaching is going pretty well. We've had some trouble with some of our investigators and the Word of Wisdom, but we're always here to help them out. That's what we're here for, after all. We lost some investigators, and we gained some new ones. We just don't know what will happen with anyone, so we just have to keep on keeping on. I seem to use that phrase a lot. Anyway, yeah. We just have to keep on working, even if there are challenges and such.
EAT THE SOUP. It's good, I promise! Dad and Jeffrey I'm fairly certain will like it. Also, you should send me the recipe so that I know what's in it haha.
Yay Elizabeth!! I'm sure that you sounded amazing with your solo and duet. I'm sure it was great fun to watch you sing, too. You can be a rather animated singer at times, and it's kinda funny.
I am kinda dying of curiosity to find out what the award is that Jeffrey's receiving. But only kinda dying. :)
Oh, before I forget, I finally got pouch again! I got stuff from the beginning of April to about early May I believe. I also got the Easter package from mi familia! Thank you so very much for all that you sent me, and thank you all who sent me letters! I do so enjoy hearing from all of you guys. I'll do my best to write back to you, but some of you might not hear from me for another month or so. I'll do my best though. (Also, madre, if you could let Michelle know that I still haven't received her birthday package to me, and that I'm fairly certain it has been lost, I would appreciate that. Thank you!)
Guinea pig is called cui down here, and I'm fairly certain I'll have it. They don't serve it on the coast or reginons thereabouts, but they do in the sierras and orrient. I'll let you know as soon as I can when I have it.
Mom, I am so very proud of you for all the hard work you've been doing. Starting up college again is quite a big deal, and so is losing 31 pounds! You are doing such a great job, and I know that it's a blessing for trusting in your Heavenly Father and putting your life in his hands. Keep up the good work!
We had our zone conference this past Friday (oh yeah, there's a district meeting for all districts in the zone on Thursdays, and a meeting for leaders on Friday, and once a month a zone conference, so I see a lot of missionaries a lot), and it was very good, as usual. After we were mostly done with the meeting, Presidente Sloan took me aside and told me that I'm doing a fantastic job, and that he's incredibly proud of the work that I'm doing and who I'm becoming. He also said that Elder Huarahuara said that he's learned things from me, which I didn't think was possible, seeing as I'm a greeny and he only has 19 days left in his mission. That kinda shocked and humbled me. I don't know how I'm doing anything exceptionally praiseworthy or anything. All I do is work like I think I should, nothing special or anything. But now I know something for sure; I need to work harder. There's always room for improvement, and I'm sure I can find that room and fill it. I have to, because the people here are counting on me. I've gotta work hard.
Hmm. I don't quite know what else to say. I'm in good health and spirits, and I'm learning new things every day. I absolutely love the mission work, and I couldn't leave early even if you asked me super nice. I'll try to write more next week. Hopefully we'll have some baptisms this upcoming week (as in on Saturday...wow, that was a lot of prepositions). I love all of you so very very much. Thank you all for your prayers. I'm sure that they are helping me out. I'll try to send a letter package this Thursday. Let me know when you get the other two that I've sent (I think I sent two...).
Anyway, cuidase! Les amo!
Love,
Elder Schomburg
So here I am, writting again because suddenly it's Monday again! The days really do seem to be flying by, which is both good and bad. I am doing very well this day, and as always am pressed for time, so I'll write what I can.
Teaching is going pretty well. We've had some trouble with some of our investigators and the Word of Wisdom, but we're always here to help them out. That's what we're here for, after all. We lost some investigators, and we gained some new ones. We just don't know what will happen with anyone, so we just have to keep on keeping on. I seem to use that phrase a lot. Anyway, yeah. We just have to keep on working, even if there are challenges and such.
EAT THE SOUP. It's good, I promise! Dad and Jeffrey I'm fairly certain will like it. Also, you should send me the recipe so that I know what's in it haha.
Yay Elizabeth!! I'm sure that you sounded amazing with your solo and duet. I'm sure it was great fun to watch you sing, too. You can be a rather animated singer at times, and it's kinda funny.
I am kinda dying of curiosity to find out what the award is that Jeffrey's receiving. But only kinda dying. :)
Oh, before I forget, I finally got pouch again! I got stuff from the beginning of April to about early May I believe. I also got the Easter package from mi familia! Thank you so very much for all that you sent me, and thank you all who sent me letters! I do so enjoy hearing from all of you guys. I'll do my best to write back to you, but some of you might not hear from me for another month or so. I'll do my best though. (Also, madre, if you could let Michelle know that I still haven't received her birthday package to me, and that I'm fairly certain it has been lost, I would appreciate that. Thank you!)
Guinea pig is called cui down here, and I'm fairly certain I'll have it. They don't serve it on the coast or reginons thereabouts, but they do in the sierras and orrient. I'll let you know as soon as I can when I have it.
Mom, I am so very proud of you for all the hard work you've been doing. Starting up college again is quite a big deal, and so is losing 31 pounds! You are doing such a great job, and I know that it's a blessing for trusting in your Heavenly Father and putting your life in his hands. Keep up the good work!
We had our zone conference this past Friday (oh yeah, there's a district meeting for all districts in the zone on Thursdays, and a meeting for leaders on Friday, and once a month a zone conference, so I see a lot of missionaries a lot), and it was very good, as usual. After we were mostly done with the meeting, Presidente Sloan took me aside and told me that I'm doing a fantastic job, and that he's incredibly proud of the work that I'm doing and who I'm becoming. He also said that Elder Huarahuara said that he's learned things from me, which I didn't think was possible, seeing as I'm a greeny and he only has 19 days left in his mission. That kinda shocked and humbled me. I don't know how I'm doing anything exceptionally praiseworthy or anything. All I do is work like I think I should, nothing special or anything. But now I know something for sure; I need to work harder. There's always room for improvement, and I'm sure I can find that room and fill it. I have to, because the people here are counting on me. I've gotta work hard.
Hmm. I don't quite know what else to say. I'm in good health and spirits, and I'm learning new things every day. I absolutely love the mission work, and I couldn't leave early even if you asked me super nice. I'll try to write more next week. Hopefully we'll have some baptisms this upcoming week (as in on Saturday...wow, that was a lot of prepositions). I love all of you so very very much. Thank you all for your prayers. I'm sure that they are helping me out. I'll try to send a letter package this Thursday. Let me know when you get the other two that I've sent (I think I sent two...).
Anyway, cuidase! Les amo!
Love,
Elder Schomburg
Monday, May 9, 2011
Well, I survived cambios!
Hello beloved family and friends!
Well, today we got calls for changes (that means that some of us were assigned to a different sector/zone, and some weren't). And I will be in...La Concordia! Yep, no change for me nor Elder Huarahuara. Elder Buckland's compañero, Elder Estrada, was reassigned to a sector in Quito, and he just left a couple of minutes ago. So, yep. I get the heat and humidity of the coast for at least 6 more weeks. I'm okay with that though. There's more work to be finished and started here.
So, I thought I'd tell you about an observation that I made earlier this week during a zone mini-conference; a good missionary is a marvellous thing. I have to specify a missionary as a "good" missionary because a regular missionary is, in my opinion, little more than a 19-21 year old guy. So, why is a good missionary a marvellous thing? Because a good missionary has the power of the Holy Ghost. A good missionary has a special feel about him/her. A good missionary teaches with power, even if he's only practicing teaching. A good missionary has to work hard - ridiculously hard - to be a good missionary. When a missionary tries to be a good missionary, everyone who is around that missionary can feel that difference. People are more drawn to that missionary, and they will want to listen. And why? Because he has the power of the Holy Ghost. He has the authority of God, the priesthood, to do all things to bring about the salvation of man. He has accepted that he has been called of God through a prophet to bring about that salvation, and he understands what that entails. When a missionary has done all of these things, he becomes a good missionary and a marvellous thing. A miracle, really. How else could a 20-something-year-old bring about the salvation of men? Only through being divinely appointed, receiving divine power, working hard, and then working harder. Anyway, those are my two cents.
I have cause to shout praises to the heavens, and I shall do so right now! My little sister is going to be singing a solo and a duet in the upcoming Pops Concert at her high school! Oh yeah, she's also a freshman. I'm pretty much excited beyond belief for that. Elizabeth, you are awesome. Keep up the good work! And there's more! Jeffrey will be receiving an award of some kind at the upcoming award banquet at his high school. How awesome is that? I know that everything that is happening to my family are blessings because they have decided to be disciples of Christ. Keep up the good work family!
I guess I don't really have a lot to write about today (I got to call home yesterday for Mother's Day...oh, by the way, Happy belated Mother's Day to all the mothers who read this blog...no, Happy Mother's Day to ALL mothers!). Sorry about that. We haven't had a lot really happen. I guess times could be called tough since we've been having troubles with our investigators and them not keeping certain commandments, which delays their baptismal dates, but thus is the life of a missionary. We just have to love them more and help them through all things. That's why we're here, after all, to help people.
Food update! There's an amazing soup here called encebollado. It's a milk-based soup (I think...I might just be making that up) with some sort of awesome spices, fish, sometimes shrimp, onions, and yucca (I think), served with tortilla chips that you crunch up and put in the soup. Then you put some mustard in it and some lime juice, and then you have that for breakfast. It's absolutely delicious, and I suggest that everyone try it out (by that I mean try to find a recipe online and then make it). It's special to Ecuador, but I'm thinking it's something that'll stay special to me for longer than my time here. Warning: this soup does not do pretty things to your breath, so have it before you brush your teeth, or have gum handy.
Que mas, que mas...oh, when sending packages, I just wanted to remind you that it cannot be over 4 kilos, it's illegal to put money in the packages, and you should cover the box in religious stickers. So, yeah, just little reminders. I should have a chance to check pouch on Thursday, so I'll see if my 3-week dry spell has just been accumulating somewhere. (Side note: when I say how long it's been since I received packages/letters, it's soley to let those who have sent things know that I haven't received it yet. It's not a pitiful plea for more packages or anything like that. I just like to keep people updated, that's all.)
Well, I don't have a lot more to say. I love all of you very much. Oh, I hope that all that had or will have finals soon do well on them! I can't wait to hear how you did! (*coughcough*) Haha, anyway, I hope all is well with all y'all in the States. Also, you guys are so ridiculously blessed to live in the States. You don't even know. You guys really are in the Promised Land. Okay, Imma go for now. Cuidase!
Well, today we got calls for changes (that means that some of us were assigned to a different sector/zone, and some weren't). And I will be in...La Concordia! Yep, no change for me nor Elder Huarahuara. Elder Buckland's compañero, Elder Estrada, was reassigned to a sector in Quito, and he just left a couple of minutes ago. So, yep. I get the heat and humidity of the coast for at least 6 more weeks. I'm okay with that though. There's more work to be finished and started here.
So, I thought I'd tell you about an observation that I made earlier this week during a zone mini-conference; a good missionary is a marvellous thing. I have to specify a missionary as a "good" missionary because a regular missionary is, in my opinion, little more than a 19-21 year old guy. So, why is a good missionary a marvellous thing? Because a good missionary has the power of the Holy Ghost. A good missionary has a special feel about him/her. A good missionary teaches with power, even if he's only practicing teaching. A good missionary has to work hard - ridiculously hard - to be a good missionary. When a missionary tries to be a good missionary, everyone who is around that missionary can feel that difference. People are more drawn to that missionary, and they will want to listen. And why? Because he has the power of the Holy Ghost. He has the authority of God, the priesthood, to do all things to bring about the salvation of man. He has accepted that he has been called of God through a prophet to bring about that salvation, and he understands what that entails. When a missionary has done all of these things, he becomes a good missionary and a marvellous thing. A miracle, really. How else could a 20-something-year-old bring about the salvation of men? Only through being divinely appointed, receiving divine power, working hard, and then working harder. Anyway, those are my two cents.
I have cause to shout praises to the heavens, and I shall do so right now! My little sister is going to be singing a solo and a duet in the upcoming Pops Concert at her high school! Oh yeah, she's also a freshman. I'm pretty much excited beyond belief for that. Elizabeth, you are awesome. Keep up the good work! And there's more! Jeffrey will be receiving an award of some kind at the upcoming award banquet at his high school. How awesome is that? I know that everything that is happening to my family are blessings because they have decided to be disciples of Christ. Keep up the good work family!
I guess I don't really have a lot to write about today (I got to call home yesterday for Mother's Day...oh, by the way, Happy belated Mother's Day to all the mothers who read this blog...no, Happy Mother's Day to ALL mothers!). Sorry about that. We haven't had a lot really happen. I guess times could be called tough since we've been having troubles with our investigators and them not keeping certain commandments, which delays their baptismal dates, but thus is the life of a missionary. We just have to love them more and help them through all things. That's why we're here, after all, to help people.
Food update! There's an amazing soup here called encebollado. It's a milk-based soup (I think...I might just be making that up) with some sort of awesome spices, fish, sometimes shrimp, onions, and yucca (I think), served with tortilla chips that you crunch up and put in the soup. Then you put some mustard in it and some lime juice, and then you have that for breakfast. It's absolutely delicious, and I suggest that everyone try it out (by that I mean try to find a recipe online and then make it). It's special to Ecuador, but I'm thinking it's something that'll stay special to me for longer than my time here. Warning: this soup does not do pretty things to your breath, so have it before you brush your teeth, or have gum handy.
Que mas, que mas...oh, when sending packages, I just wanted to remind you that it cannot be over 4 kilos, it's illegal to put money in the packages, and you should cover the box in religious stickers. So, yeah, just little reminders. I should have a chance to check pouch on Thursday, so I'll see if my 3-week dry spell has just been accumulating somewhere. (Side note: when I say how long it's been since I received packages/letters, it's soley to let those who have sent things know that I haven't received it yet. It's not a pitiful plea for more packages or anything like that. I just like to keep people updated, that's all.)
Well, I don't have a lot more to say. I love all of you very much. Oh, I hope that all that had or will have finals soon do well on them! I can't wait to hear how you did! (*coughcough*) Haha, anyway, I hope all is well with all y'all in the States. Also, you guys are so ridiculously blessed to live in the States. You don't even know. You guys really are in the Promised Land. Okay, Imma go for now. Cuidase!
From the madre:
Links for your perusal:
http://laylita.com/recipes/2008/03/01/encebollado-de-pescado-or-tuna-soup/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Encebollado
Monday, May 2, 2011
May 2, 2011
Hello there guys!
Sorry about last week. I had to go to Quito to get my censo, which is basically a driver's license thingy that says that I'm allowed to be here. We had to take the long way to Quito since the main route was closed due to mud slides, so I had to spend the night in Quito. Also, I don't know how much time I have here today. Time seems to be something I never have enough of, especially on P-days. Also, I just heard about Bin Laden earlier today from one of my zone leaders. That's pretty big news. I don't really think it means a lot down here, but it might. Oh, I also heard that Ecuador and the US aren't on the greatest of terms, so ALL packages are going to be searched before they get to me. I'm glad to hear that the package that mi madre sent arrived at the offices. It hasn't made it to me yet, but I have been getting a little mail. This past week was a bit slow, but that's okay. I'm finding that I'm getting pretty caught up and lost in the work here. I'd like to appologize if I accidentally neglect any of you because of getting caught up in the work. Also, the Thursday before last I sent another package, so it should be arriving soon I hope. I'll be sending another package this Thursday if I have a chance to. It might be a smaller package because of my lack of time to write letters, but I'll try to see what I can do.
OH, HAPPY NEWS. This Sunday I get to call home!! I'll be calling at around 2 PM my time, which should be 12 PM your time. Be ready!!
Some have wondered where I have internet access. We got to cyber cafes to write. That's basically where everyone who wants to go online goes. Sometimes it's difficult to find room, but it's not too terrible. It does make me appreciate the States much more though. (Oh, also, the US is in fact the best country in the world, though Ecuador is pretty cool too.)
Yesterday was a pretty special day as far as priesthood activities go. I got to participate in 3 blessings. The first was one of comfort that I was just a participant in, one I got to do an annointing, and another I got to give a blessing of healing. It was pretty amazing. That was the first blessing of healing that I'd done in español. I think it went fairly well.
This past week we didn't have any baptisms, and we won't have any this week I don't think, but it hasn't gotten me down. Right now we have 16 investigators with commitments to baptism, and we'll definitely be getting more dates as the week goes on. The work is going very well here. The Santo Domingo zone (that's our zone) is actually famous in the mission because, and I don't mean to sound stuck up, it's just a fact proven by numbers, we're the best in the mission. I feel very blessed to have arrived in this zone very first, though I do wonder about what that means for my future. Also, since I'm entering into my 5th week in the field, Elder Huarahuara has kinda made me acting senior companion. That's gonna be quite a thing. I have to decide who we visit, how we plan, all kinds of stuff. It will be a good learning experience though. Also, we're going to be getting calls about changes very soon (supposedly today), so we'll see what happens there.
I'm very sorry to hear that Atlas passed away. He was a good cat, but I guess he was just tired of holding up the world.
We have lunch at a mamasita's house about 4 days of the week, and the rest of the time we either eat at a restaurant (usually chinese because it's cheap, and it's not chinese like you guys know. You guys have better food all the way around, except fruit. I dunno. Oh, along with this aside is another; I've found that I absolutely love apples now.), or we cook at home. I have never had as much rice in my life, but that's okay. I like rice, especially when I cook it, cause then I can be creative (like rice with sugar and grilled pineapple in it). Oh, also, I had the most declicious drink. It's called jugo de fresa con leche, which basically means strawberry milkshake minus the icecream. If I had a blender (and I've had to refrain from buying one just to make more drinks like this) I'd have it every day. It's delicious.
I was so thrilled to hear about Robby's baptism and Elizabeth's Easter Cantata!! I'm very proud of you, Robby, for making the decision for yourself to be baptized. I hope you had a very good time, and that you continue to build your testimony. Also, good job Elizabeth!! I cannot wait to hear your singing. I'm sure it's lovely.
It's weird to think about snow. That's so far from a possibility here in La Concordia. It might be possible in Quito (the nights are pretty chilly, and the rain is not warm at all), but definitely not here.
Nothing really big happened on Easter. The week of Easter seemed to be bigger than Easter itself. There wasn't really anything special in church, but all the Catholics here went all out for the Santa Semana. But not a lot happened. There were some talks on the Savior, but not much other than that.
Oh, I still have all of my body parts (tonsils included), so no worries. I've been fairly healthy. Since I've been here there have been a few days when I just did not feel good, but in general all is well.
Okay, I should probably go now. I love all of you! I'm very sorry to those who won't get to receive cards from me for awhile longer, but being a servant of the Lord takes up all of my time. I love you all very very much. Keep staying strong, and keep on sending letters (not cards, since they don't seem to make it, and insurance might be a good thing for packages. Also, DO NOT send money in the mail at all. It's actually something that I was supposed to tell you that I don't know if I did. Thank you!), and I'll do my best to respond. I love you all!
Love,
Elder Schomburg
Sorry about last week. I had to go to Quito to get my censo, which is basically a driver's license thingy that says that I'm allowed to be here. We had to take the long way to Quito since the main route was closed due to mud slides, so I had to spend the night in Quito. Also, I don't know how much time I have here today. Time seems to be something I never have enough of, especially on P-days. Also, I just heard about Bin Laden earlier today from one of my zone leaders. That's pretty big news. I don't really think it means a lot down here, but it might. Oh, I also heard that Ecuador and the US aren't on the greatest of terms, so ALL packages are going to be searched before they get to me. I'm glad to hear that the package that mi madre sent arrived at the offices. It hasn't made it to me yet, but I have been getting a little mail. This past week was a bit slow, but that's okay. I'm finding that I'm getting pretty caught up and lost in the work here. I'd like to appologize if I accidentally neglect any of you because of getting caught up in the work. Also, the Thursday before last I sent another package, so it should be arriving soon I hope. I'll be sending another package this Thursday if I have a chance to. It might be a smaller package because of my lack of time to write letters, but I'll try to see what I can do.
OH, HAPPY NEWS. This Sunday I get to call home!! I'll be calling at around 2 PM my time, which should be 12 PM your time. Be ready!!
Some have wondered where I have internet access. We got to cyber cafes to write. That's basically where everyone who wants to go online goes. Sometimes it's difficult to find room, but it's not too terrible. It does make me appreciate the States much more though. (Oh, also, the US is in fact the best country in the world, though Ecuador is pretty cool too.)
Yesterday was a pretty special day as far as priesthood activities go. I got to participate in 3 blessings. The first was one of comfort that I was just a participant in, one I got to do an annointing, and another I got to give a blessing of healing. It was pretty amazing. That was the first blessing of healing that I'd done in español. I think it went fairly well.
This past week we didn't have any baptisms, and we won't have any this week I don't think, but it hasn't gotten me down. Right now we have 16 investigators with commitments to baptism, and we'll definitely be getting more dates as the week goes on. The work is going very well here. The Santo Domingo zone (that's our zone) is actually famous in the mission because, and I don't mean to sound stuck up, it's just a fact proven by numbers, we're the best in the mission. I feel very blessed to have arrived in this zone very first, though I do wonder about what that means for my future. Also, since I'm entering into my 5th week in the field, Elder Huarahuara has kinda made me acting senior companion. That's gonna be quite a thing. I have to decide who we visit, how we plan, all kinds of stuff. It will be a good learning experience though. Also, we're going to be getting calls about changes very soon (supposedly today), so we'll see what happens there.
I'm very sorry to hear that Atlas passed away. He was a good cat, but I guess he was just tired of holding up the world.
We have lunch at a mamasita's house about 4 days of the week, and the rest of the time we either eat at a restaurant (usually chinese because it's cheap, and it's not chinese like you guys know. You guys have better food all the way around, except fruit. I dunno. Oh, along with this aside is another; I've found that I absolutely love apples now.), or we cook at home. I have never had as much rice in my life, but that's okay. I like rice, especially when I cook it, cause then I can be creative (like rice with sugar and grilled pineapple in it). Oh, also, I had the most declicious drink. It's called jugo de fresa con leche, which basically means strawberry milkshake minus the icecream. If I had a blender (and I've had to refrain from buying one just to make more drinks like this) I'd have it every day. It's delicious.
I was so thrilled to hear about Robby's baptism and Elizabeth's Easter Cantata!! I'm very proud of you, Robby, for making the decision for yourself to be baptized. I hope you had a very good time, and that you continue to build your testimony. Also, good job Elizabeth!! I cannot wait to hear your singing. I'm sure it's lovely.
It's weird to think about snow. That's so far from a possibility here in La Concordia. It might be possible in Quito (the nights are pretty chilly, and the rain is not warm at all), but definitely not here.
Nothing really big happened on Easter. The week of Easter seemed to be bigger than Easter itself. There wasn't really anything special in church, but all the Catholics here went all out for the Santa Semana. But not a lot happened. There were some talks on the Savior, but not much other than that.
Oh, I still have all of my body parts (tonsils included), so no worries. I've been fairly healthy. Since I've been here there have been a few days when I just did not feel good, but in general all is well.
Okay, I should probably go now. I love all of you! I'm very sorry to those who won't get to receive cards from me for awhile longer, but being a servant of the Lord takes up all of my time. I love you all very very much. Keep staying strong, and keep on sending letters (not cards, since they don't seem to make it, and insurance might be a good thing for packages. Also, DO NOT send money in the mail at all. It's actually something that I was supposed to tell you that I don't know if I did. Thank you!), and I'll do my best to respond. I love you all!
Love,
Elder Schomburg
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