Sept 14, 2009

Well, not a lot happened this week… it’s the start of something new though: we no longer have District Meetings on Monday, instead we just have a full P-Day, and on Tuesdays we’re going to get together for District Meetings. So that’s interesting. But tomorrow we’re going to have Zone Conference, so hopefully that gives a boost to the zone, because right now we’re not doing so hot, and I’m running out of ideas and options of what I can do. Our own area is lacking a bit right now too, because even though we have some cool people, hardly anyone makes it to church. But I’m excited that the mission work is going well in Saratoga, I hope Paige does well in growing the seed of her testimony, and I know with you guys accompanying her, she’ll do great. That’s one thing that I’ve definitely learned here in Paraguay, without a friend who will stay with them after the missionaries are gone, it is soooo tough for young converts to keep going strong, so don’t underestimate the influence the family is having on that young woman!

Yeah, I’m excited though that I’m a grandpa in the mission, but I still don’t know my grandkid’s name haha. I plan on finding out this week though, because I’m pretty sure I have Zone Conference with the zone that Elder Spencer is in right now. But as far as soccer goes, I’m stoked that Cole is doing good. Fútbol is a ton of fun. Today we went to this sweet turf field that’s like the perfect size to play 7 on 7, and its all netted in so we can’t kick the ball out (a must with gringos playing) and it only costs 60 mil an hour, or 12 dollars. So we split that up and everyone paid 5 mil, or a dollar, and it was awesome. With our open P-Days now, we’re planning on going just about every week in the morning early to start off the day with some bonding time and exercise. There’s no way you could find a nice place like that for so cheap in the states.

My shoes are still in the process of getting fixed, supposedly it took him forever to get the soles off… the Paraguayans aren’t used to quality American shoes. But now he’s going to sew on a new sole, so I should have them by the end of the week, if not next P-Day. Anyways, tell the Jessee’s hello for me when they get home, and just so ya’ll know, yesterday was the 19th month mark for me… so I’m getting pretty old. Other than that, there’s no real news… things are going pretty slow, but I’m fighting to keep things going, but man, every day I’m just a more and more tired. Thanks for everything you did Mom and Dad… and siblings… for me before the mission, even if I did take it for granted in the moment. Love you all,

Elder Dennis