WEEK #2 - BRASIL IS AWESOME!

Hello Everyone!

Brasil is awesome! I actually don't really know yet but from what I've seen of Sao Paulo, it seems pretty cool.  Living in the CTM is like living in an aquarium because it still feels like we are just living in American with a bunch of Brasileiros.

When we got here, everyone was telling us how terrible and hard the first week is but I actually enjoyed it.  The first few days were super slow but the rest have flown by.  Sitting in a class for 9 hours a day is pretty boring, but I have an awesome District (group of missionaries) and I like learning Portuguese so it's not that bad.  We are always laughing together about movie quotes or something, which is awesome.  Paying attention during Spanish has definitely payed off, but it is still super hard to talk to Brazilians.  I can carry a conversation better with Spanish speaking Elders, but I can feel the Portuguese improving quickly.  I know the Lord is helping me learn this language because he wants all of His children to hear the Gospel.

The food here is either hit or miss.  They always serve rice and beans though and they are super good.  Also, the guarana (Brazilian soda) is sooo good!  I look forward to physical activity every day. We either play volleyball or basketball and I have a few hoopers in my district.

Yesterday we got to hear from Neil A. Anderson and his wife!! That was an awesome experience.  His witness of Jesus Christ is incredibly powerful.  I really liked what Sister Anderson had to say.  She talked about the Holy Ghost and how privileged we are to have a member of the Godhead with us constantly.  She asked why anyone would take for granted this special gift. No movie, music etc is better than the Spirit of the Lord and the blessing it brings to our lives.

Today we got to go the Sao Paulo Temple.  It was super cool and nice to get out of spiritual prison...ha ha!

Everyone here at the CTM is awesome. I have met so many incredible people with such strong testimonies.  My companion is Elder S. and he is from Colorado.  We don't have much in common but we get along really well.  I realte super well with the other guys in my District so I feel at home.

Anyway, I don't have much time to email so I will try to reply to everyone. Also I can't email pics from the CTM (sad face).  I miss and love you all!  Have a great week!

Happy early anniversary to my parents!! I hope you guys have a great day!

Jacob also added in an email to me that the blessings of being set apart as a missionary for the Lord are so real and he hasn't been homesick and doesn't miss his phone. :)