I'll Be Home For Christmas, If Only In My Dreams

I knew it would be hard to be away for the holidays, but I didn't think it would be THIS hard. Everywhere we go, music is playing and lights are flashing and I wish I could be with the ones I love most. Luckily, I'm in an apartment with 3 other missionaries so that is like a little family and should make it better than being just with one companion. Plus, if I make it through Christmas away from home, I think I can make it through anything. I had a list written of all the things I wanted to talk about but left it at home so I hope I can remember everything because for once, a lot happened in one week. For starters, right before transfer meeting on Tuesday, we were headed out to lunch. I was starving and we got a little lost so Elder Thomas had to make a U turn. He hit a curb and our tire went flat in about 10 seconds. We were with 2 other missionaries and had the hardest time changing the tire. Not because we didn't know how (at least, not ALL of us didn't know how) but because the nuts were on so tight that we stripped the wrench trying to get the thing off. In the end, it all worked out fine.

When we first got to our apartment that night, it was really hard for me. We are right in the middle of the ghetto. After I got settled, I was writing in my journal when on the other side of the wall I heard our neighbor dealing drugs. It kinda freaked me out but I tried to just block it out. A couple hours later, like 8 cop cars showed up and busted them. It was kinda sweet.

We have 1 REAL investigator, whatever that means. Her name is Malicia and we were able to meet with her this week. It was mostly just a "get to know you" type meeting rather than a lesson but it went really well. She is nice and I'm excited about teaching her.

We raked leaves for the Donat's, an elderly couple in the ward. They reminded me so much of Grandma and Grandpa Davis. It was great to be able to help them and it reminded me of raking leaves with Grandma Betty.

Church yesterday was so much fun. There are so many nice people in this ward and I really enjoyed myself. I love the members here already. They were very helpful to Elder Prusse and I and are so willing to help. I'm sorry that this email is so dry. I'll try to put more spice in the others but I'm just not used to having so much to talk about. I love you all and pray for you always. Have a great week.