"Wherefore, how great the importance to make these things known unto the inhabitants of the earth, that they may know that there is no flesh that can dwell in the presence of God, save it be through the merits, and mercy, and grace of the Holy Messiah."

Book of Mormon, 2 Nephi 2:8

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Week One in Guate!!

Familia mia!!!!! 
Como estan ustedes?? Espero que toda esta bien el nuestro hogar. Things are going great here and I'm loving it!! Elder Glenn is the best! He's really really laid back about everything and is super nice and we teach together really really well in English and in Spanish. We have taught I think 2 or 3 in English and 2 in Spanish. He has 3 sisters I think and 2 that served missions (one Italian speaking and one Japanese speaking)   But he's great.  


The food here is pretty good though for the most part. There are some things that are a little gross or weird, but that's when you just add the "green sauce" that they have which is really spicy and it makes everything taste better. I have bonded really well with everyone here I feel like and I'm excited for that because I like being friends with everyone and talking to everyone. I've especially bonded with the Latinos that are here which is great cause I love them, they are all really really great. I think they mostly like me because they think I'm funny and because I can communicate fairly well in Español with them for the most part (if they don't talk too fast!) When I first met them I would tell them all that I was from Guatemala and that I was a unique redheaded Guatemalan or "chapin". After I started saying "soy chapin pelirojo" one of the guys who works in the lobby of Casa de Huespedes (my rooming place) asked me (in spanish of course) if I wanted to know what they called "chapines pelirojos" in Guatemala. He told me that they call them "fosforitos" which means matches or matchsticks. So then I told all of the Latinos that story and now they call me "fosforito" or "Elder chapin fosforito" haha and I love it. It's great. I`ve also been called "Elder Weasley" of course and "Elder Carrot Top" so I've got quite a few nicknames. So it's great here, I love it. 


Anyways- on to respond to your emails! Mom- oh wow sounds like you have a ton to deal with! What was the sisters name that died? I probably didn't know her, but I might remember her. And Sister Beatty!! That's crazy!! I'm really glad she's ok and that Brother Beatty was there to save her! What a guy. I'll keep Sister Henry and Sister Beatty in my prayers and of course you in your calling :) Elder Glenn said his mom would love it if you met her or went to see her when you are in San Diego. I don't know what part he lives in or anything but let me know if you want his info or anything next week. And yeah Elder Rowan is a great guy and fun to have in my district. I still think it's funny that we already met before we came here haha. He and I get along really well and I'm glad to be able to help, but I don't ever really have to help him, he's doing really well in Spanish. My Spanish is ok. Mostly just my accent is what is best and that's not even that good yet. 


We went through the temple today and it was supposed to be in English, but the whole thing was in Spanish haha, but I understood about 80% or maybe a little more. So that was fun. Dad- first of all I just want to say that I love getting letters from you and the advice and counsel that you always give. Our mission president was talking to us about how dads never write and it's usually just the moms, but I'm glad that you write me and that you write good letters. I really do appreciate what you say and am thankful to have such a caring and loving father. I will definitely fast with my fellow norte missionaries on the 5th of September. I'll write it in my planner so I don't forget. And I knew that somebody  had President Steimle as their mission president but I couldn't remember his name so thanks for sending that to me! I'll be sure to talk to President Steimle when I can. And thanks for the advice for living conditions. I'll start preparing myself now and try to be ready and get used to "camping like conditions" I also liked what you said about Alma 7:11! I was thinking kind of the same thing but you put it into words for me so thanks! 


Jack! thanks for your letter buddy! I like getting email from you. Sorry that my phone is a piece of junk, but have fun with football and with your acting! I'm proud that you are folloing in my footsteps and I know that you will be way better than I ever was cause you are awesome! keep up the good work buddy! Kinzie! I hear you're liking seminary and are being a really good influence on the class and a big help to dad. Good job sis! I'm proud of you! I got you a bag today :) I'll send you all something probably at the end of my CCM training. Matt- I don't have much time, but I just want to say that I love you and I know that you are doing a fantastic job in your mission and in your duties as district leader. Keep it up and push yourself for your last couple of months!! I'm really sorry to hear about the bad experience you had with your last companion but don't let it discourage you. You'll be blessed for doing what you're supposed to. I love you buddy. Well everyone, I'm unfortunately out of time, but I love you all very much!!!!!! You are the best and I loved all your letter. I'm doing really great here and I love Guate already. the people and the country and the best ever. Les amo mucho familia y la iglesia es verdadera! Yo se prometo! Love you all!!!!!!   


Con mucho amor, 
Elder Jace Norton

1 comment:

  1. That Jace is such a good boy! Just love that kid. He is going to be one great missionary. I didn't know Matt was made DL! That is awesome. You guys should be so proud of your two sons :) Loved the Elder Weasley comment!!

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