Always a trooper

La hermanita has always been a superstar to me. She's had some rocky roads in her life, but has always kept a bright, positive vibe. I knew when she left on her mission that it wouldn't be easy (I've been on a mission, too, and it was one of the hardest things I've ever done), but her letters are always upbeat and usually have some kind of silly story attached.

Case in point:

"So, we are teaching this lady. She is 84 and her name is Orlanda. She is growing on me and is progressing. First, she thinks that the soap operas that she watches are really happening in Santiago. She thinks it is the news. Second, yesterday we had Stake Conference (a regional conference of LDS saints). She came with us. She thought it was long after the two hours. During the final prayer, she tapped my companion and said something along the lines of, ¨when is this going to be over, look! All the people are beginning to fall asleep!¨ Everyone's heads were bowed for the prayer and she thought they were sleeping! It was funny. She is progressing and I hope to see her into the waters of baptism this week or the next."
My sis is having some success in her teaching; she has had another baptism. Go sis!

I'd also like to make a little note here: You may have noticed that La hermanita is growing a little in size. I don't know how it's possible, but even when you're walking around all day every day it just happens (at least it does in South America!). Actually, I do know how it's possible: the people down there are super giving, and when they feed you (which they do), it's yummy food cooked with lard and lots of oil, and usually they give you several large servings, even if you only want one! They did the same thing in Argentina (where I went), and I remember thinking that as soon as I got home from my mission I was never going to eat past the point of fullness ever again! But you know, they're so sweet, and they think they are doing you a favor, so you just can't say no! :)