Transfers... Boda... Christmas Time

It's transfer time! Laurie is a piece of luggage taking her turn in the back. We tried to do a Chinese fire drill but it didn't work too well. There is something about our hats that the elders really like. It takes us most of the day to get the elders/sisters to where they need to be. But it was fun to have all six of them for lunch to get to know them. We are excited to have them with us in Esteli.

We experienced our first Nica "boda" which means wedding that was followed by an awesome baptism. Juana and Jackson were anxious to get baptized but needed to get married first. It's not uncommon for couples to live together because of their culture and the costs of getting married. According to the law in Nicaragua, couples have to get married civilly prior to leaving the country to get sealed in the temple. Bishops aren't given the authority to marry people so attorneys perform the ceremony. This attorney gave them wonderful counsel. Afterwards, they changed into their whites and had a baptismal service that had a greater significance as they took their first step of their eternal progression. It was a privilege for me to help them take that first step. Their goal is to prepare to go to the temple in a year. Our goal is to work with them to get them there along with the members who introduced them to the gospel and was a catalyst in their conversion. Truly a testimony of the power of members in the conversion process.

We were out visiting less active members and as we were leaving, a group of kids started shouting and waving at us. It's not often they see "gringos" in their barrio. I guess we are somewhat of a novelty. Anyways, they wanted to play... of course I had to stop and play with them. They were anxious to have their picture taken and each one gave me a big "abarzo" before we left. It was a sweet and very tender experience. Oh how we love the children! They embrace life despite the conditions in which they live.

Feliz Navidad! What a special time to be a missionary as we celebrate the birth of our Savior. We have the opportunity every day to testify of Him, His Atonement, and the joy knowing that He died to bring us home. The message of the Savior and His Atonement is truly special and one that we love to share with these sweet people. Most of these people are so focused on their day-to-day survival that they forget or set aside things that are most important. Christmas is so different here. It isn't celebrated like we're accustomed to. Very few have lights on their home and/or a Christmas tree but because of the poverty Santa Claus is virtually non-existent. They have their parties and lots of fireworks but when we talk about Santa Claus coming down the Chimney or stockings hung by the fireplace, they don't have any idea what we are talking about. Most don't know the Christmas Carols as they aren't sung in church and when we sing them with families in their home, they aren't familiar with them. So, we take the Christmas spirit to them! We sing Christmas songs and show a video from Light the World program of the church. They are perfect for a Noche de Hogar. Plus, they provide a great backdrop to teach of the Savior.

We decided to put up a few lights but opted out of a tree. Thanks to those who sent decorations, cards, and treats. That was such a fun, thoughtful surprise and added to our decorations and the Christmas spirit. The Latino missionaries have enjoyed the candy from America.

Hermana Melendrez (left) is returning with honor to her home in Guatemala. She chose Pizza Hut for her last lunch meal with us in Esteli before heading to Managua. She was a great missionary and so fun to work with in the Rosario Branch. She will be missed.