Week 41: 1 Step Forward, 2 Steps Back

Hey Everyone!!! 

We had ourselves an interesting week! Like just about every other week in the mission, lots of ups and lots of downs! But sadly, this week there were a few killer disappointments. But first we'll talk about the highlights of the week:

-Monday we hiked to the top of the mountain with the whole zone! (Half only made it half way though). It was supper fun and kind of harder than we thought! But the views were AWESOME—we could see the whole mission and even more! 

-Thursday we had a Mother's Day activity with the ward! Every quorum/organization had to do a number or event. We (us 4 missionaries and the mission leader) did a skit about missionaries in the 80's and the "Dear John" letter came for one of the poor Elders and we acted it out and stuff. Haha, it was hilarious and a big hit. We had like 8 investigators come too!

-Friday we had a work visit and Elder Marcum and I stayed in my area, he is a cool guy from Idaho and is a pilot! Super cool! 

-And of course yesterday I gotta Skype the fam which was awesome. :)))

Well...this week we set another baptismal date for the 20th with our killer investigator, Saul, but...he couldn't come to church yesterday!! In fact...NO ONE DID! No investigators came yesterday, not even our 4 baptismal dates!! They all were out of town, at the cemetery, or doing stuff with their family. It was a little heartbreaking. We have been working really hard and begging to see the fruits of our labors...but then it all got frustrated/interrupted. Sooo...we will have to postpone more dates until the 27th. :( But!!! There is no reason to cry over milk that is already spilled amiright? Just gonna keep moving forward and looking at everything that comes as a blessing instead of a curse, and a way to gain experience and perspective!! Just like Peter says in 1 Peter 4:12-14:

12) "Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:
13) But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.

14) If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified."

Well, there are always trails, but the work goes on!!!!! I love the mission and I love this church! Have a good week everyone. :)

-Elder Hale

Mountain selfie with the Varn Dog. (Elder Varney)

I'm on top of the world!

Anotha one.

Nice!

Elder Cossio brought his Bolivian flag, lol!

Breaking boulders for service this week.

Blue ribbon quality watch tan line.