Make the days count

How was everyone’s week?  Have you talked to or seen Elder Hartmann lately?  I really miss him a lot.  I can say he was my best companion so far.  All the time here while I’m in Villa Hidalgo, tons of memories of us two just pop into my mind.  It makes me a bit depressed.  He was so good to me and taught me so many things.  Also, it doesn’t help when people here bring up his name.  There are some points in the day where I am on the verge of crying.  I hide it though and smile all the time.  My companion isn’t a smiler but he appreciates the smile I always have.  It’s hard to hide my feelings but I do it. 

Well now I am a trainer to Elder Montiel who is from Mexico City.  On top of that responsibility I am also a district leader. 

First, I’m a trainer.  My new greenie, Elder Montiel is twenty five years old.  He is obedient to the rules.  He knows a bit of English, about as much Spanish as I knew entering the MTC.  That’s a tad bit difficult.  We can communicate though.  He also participates in the lessons a ton.  Almost too much, but it is good he is trying.  He is also pretty humble.  He is in the middle of three brothers.  His older brother served a mission, and his younger brother entered the field the same day he did, but his brother is in another part of Mexico.  As the trainer, I’m training his with just about everything, from cleaning the house, lessons, scriptures, rules, to not saying he doesn’t like the food at member’s houses.  I also teach his the area, planning, diligence, etc.

As a district leader I have to report to the zone leaders that my district is in the house by nine at night.   Then I have to get reports from the other companionship in my district that work in San Blas every night.  Then after that, I call the zone leaders to give them the report of the district.  Also three or four times a month on Tuesdays, I give the district meetings.  Also when San Blas needs to get an investigator interviewed for baptism, I go interview the investigator.  Let’s just say I have a ton more responsibilities now. 

I haven’t received the Thanksgiving package yet but thank you.

The kids better be good to mom.  Help her out with cleaning.  Do what you can for her before you leave on your mission.  Trust me…  You only have her for a short time and then you grow up.  It’s a bit depressing, thinking that I’m not going to be able to be able to live in the house with her, dad or the kids anymore.  Time flies.  A little quote for a mission but also for life:  “Don’t count the days.  Make the days count.”  Don’t have regrets and remember President Uchtdorf’s talk from general conference.  Love each other and make the days count. 

I’m not sure if you have seen Elder Hartmann yet, but if you have I hope you enjoy the surprise. 

 My Spanish has improved.  I wonder why?  Probably because that is all I can speak to communicate with people besides an American in my district, Elder Longhurst.  I also have an American Zone Leader, Elder Turby.  Elder Turby was actually in my MTC district.  He was also my companion two days.  Haha

We have another investigator names Jessica.  She has a baptism date set for November 24^th.  I believe she will be baptized before Sergio.  It’s just that Sergio isn’t quitting his addiction.  It’s been pretty disappointing with him. 

 Anyway, I love you all a lot.  Please pray for Jessica, Sergio, Antonio, Xochitl (?), and Sandy.  They are our main investigators that we are working with.  Do good, stay strong and make the days count!