Six Months!!

Hola,

First things first, ¡SEIS MESES!  Ok, now that that's over, no, I really can't believe I've been out for six months.  The time has gone by so fast, and I can't believe I'm 1/4 of the way done.  Looking back, I really can't believe how much has happened during the last six months.  For example, Spanish.  I feel I have come a long way for somebody who knew absolutely no Spanish.  I'm not saying I'm perfect, but I feel like I have a pretty good grasp on it now.  I've also felt my testimony grow so much during my time here.  If this is how I feel after six months, I'm excited to see what other changes come in the coming months.

I have gotten pretty good at packing my suitcases actually.  I just wish I had a bit more room for everything.  I can fit it all, I just have to use my expertice in packology to do it.  Still, things wear out eventually, so I might end up with some more space eventually.  I do find it is easier to fit it all every time as well.  Still, I'm hoping I won't be moving around like this my entire mission.  It could be worse though.  I've heard of missionaries who stay in the same area almost a year.  For example, one of the elders told me he had the same first area as his trainer.  Still, whatever happens I know it is what the Lord has planned.

As far as the weather goes, the rain came back this week.  I had thought we were just about free from it, but it decided to make another pass.  Still, we have had less than during the summer, so hopefully we won't be getting too wet.  It has gotten a bit colder too, but it's not too bad.  I still haven't had the chance to see the stars very well, but I've heard there are places in the mission where you can see them better.  And with the way things have been going for me, I'll probably end up in one of those areas soon.

I'm glad to hear you guys had fun on your trip.  As far as the smoking, there isn't too much more of it here, but you do run into it.  At times you see people smoking something a bit stronger as well.  Still, I haven't had too many problems with it, especially in public areas.  I am sorry to hear that Zack and Nathan aren't planning on serving missions as well.  Ultimately it is their decision, but the only thing I would tell them is that it is worth it.  I don't think I will regret it, but if they don't do it they probably will have some regrets down the road.  Ultimately it is something that I feel really will serve you in your life if you choose to put in the energy.

I think that's it for me this week.  As far as the Christmas box, American candies and sodas are a good idea.  You start to miss things like cream soda in a place like this.  Every once in a while we can get our hands on it though.  Speaking of which, it's pretty funny to watch a Mexican taste root beer for the first time.  I love you, and I'll write you next week.

Love,

Elder Samuel Long