Chance's Email 1/5/09

Familia!
First I wanna say thanks for the amazing letters. I felt the spirit when I read them and I want to be a better person each time I read them. I feel your prayers and they are helping. I don't know what I would do without your support. ok well some news.... I got transferred! I am now in a ward called Huelen (wellen, to the lay gringo) and I have heard bad things about this zone like it's boring or there isn't success or things like that but while talking to my new companion from New Orleans, Elder Mangels, he told me some things that gave me the confirmation that this ward is strong and is full of potential and opportunites. I am sooooooo excited! there is so much work to be done but I am so excited to start! This is where Elder Olsen was before he was my companion, I don't remember a lot of what he said but what I do remember was that it's a great place. My companion seems really down to earth and positive and ready to work. It looks like he is obedient too so I couldn't be happier. A little plus as well, we have lunch everyday with a different member and they serve us for free! Also they wash our clothes for free! How does my ward sound? I just wanted let you guys know that your prayers were answered and the fasts were not in vain. I too was fasting for a little success. Well remember Paola? The sister of Dina and sister in law of Raul? The three of them have continued to come to church since the first time we visited them and they really are members at heart. They just need to work some things out and get married. But Paula has no limitations. She is married although her husband and kids are still in Peru and she is awesome! We decided to focus on her and so the last appointment we had last night was with her, (the last appointment I would have in Vivaceta) and we went and asked her some questions about the restoration and she understood! I haven't told you guys but she is like 50 and it's ridiculously hard for her to understand. She isn't stupid just a little slow but she understood everything and then we put another baptismal date for Feb 1st and she was like Yeah! She had no problem and she is excited and I KNOW she is gonna get baptized, then Dina and Raul will follow with their kids and then Paula will share with her husband and kids. It was a miracle. I was so happy and wanted to stay in Vivaceta to see her baptism but I'm supposed to be here. It was an answer to my prayers and I'm so excited to hear how it goes. Elder Tanner, (my comp in the mtc) is now in my sector! So I will be able to talk to him and share experiences. I am so happy right now and have been so blessed to be a part of this work. I feel so lucky. so many people say, I don't know how you can leave for 2 years and serve a mission, but I think how CAN'T you? It's too amazing to turn down. thanks so much for praying for dina and raul and paula. I know your prayers helped and I know that when they get married they will immediately be baptized. Raul is already participating in activities with the Elders Quorum and Dina and Paula have told me how they feel so great when the go to church and when they don't.. their week is much worse. Dad, I absolutely loved the stories and quotes you sent me. They gave me so much excitement and motivation thanks. I'm gonna try some of your ideas. Well fam I need to head out. I'll let you know how my new area is next week. also I have been recieving those dear elders almost every single week from Grandma Winda and they couldn't mean more to me. Thanks so much Grandma. Anyone else can send me dear elders, it's really easy, and my mail is decreasing so spread the word fam! ha ha. Also Mumsey and Poppy shot me an email that was awesome too. Thanks Mumsey and Poppy. Thanks for all your prayers and love. I love you fam!
elder peterson