Jaydan and Elder Bolanos on the border of Uruguay and Brazil.

This week there were changes but Jaydan and his comp are staying put. They also have an Italian Missionary living with, Elder Liccoli. So I guess that makes 1 1/2 Italians (the 1/2 is Jaydan) in their house. Jaydan really likes him and thinks he is super cool. They are already great friends. Jaydan had met him in Paysandu (his first zone).

They had Stake Conference that was broad casted. Jaydan said it was pretty different and he still didn't understand much. He is still struggling with the language. He does have faith however that he really will learn it or why would God send him to a place he would need to know Spanish. He works hard and tries not to worry but admitted to getting impatient at times.

A lot of times when the missionaries go to a house the parents will tell the kids to tell the Elders that the parents aren't home. The Elders are aware of that and so they tell the kids to ask the parents when it would be a good time to come back. They did this to one little girl and pretty soon the dad came out and they were able to have a good lesson with him. It was about the plan of salvation which needed to be heard and turned out really good. The spirit was strong and Jaydan did alright with the language.

Elida, the really good lady that they have been teaching, had another appointment with the Elders. They planned on teaching about the 10 commandments but since she asked them why they didn't drink coffee they had a discussion on the Word of Wisdom instead. Jaydan said he did okay but had a few struggles getting through the lesson. He reminded himself that it is through our trials that we learn. (trying to stay positive and real)

Jaydan mentioned that his comp has been getting discouraged a little lately and so Jaydan said he was trying to pull off a "Dr Phil". He tried to help his comp look at the bright side of things. Even though things are hard they should be happy since the Lord is on their side and as they push through their trial and difficulties they will be blessed for their faith and diligence. Jaydan mentioned he tries to remember that himself since he is has a lot of trials and challenges. He knows he will be blessed if he keeps working hard and enduring to the end and not giving up. Having that attitude has helped him to be happy. His attitude has also helped his comp because Jaydan just won't let things that are not in his control get him down. (like people not wanting to listen) Jaydan just tells his comp that if people don't want to listen it isn't the missionaries fault...they simply aren't ready. Then instead of being down he is just excited to go find someone that they can teach. Jaydan loves helping others out and knows that him and his comp are in their companionship to help each other.

Love to all family and friends (including Hollie)

PS A really good talk to look up about "Becoming a Missionary" is by Elder Bednar. It is found in the November 2005 Ensign. Not just good for those preparing for missions but for everyone!