7 Mayo 2001

Dear Family,

How's everything? Going well here. VERY hot, but good. As you know by now, I'm training. It's really different from normal, but I like it. Knowing that he's always looking at me, watching my every move, really helps me to stp out of my comfort zones and do my best, trying to give him the best example I can. He's an awesome guy. His name is Elder Christopher from Cottonwood, California (near Chico.) There are 8 in his family and all but his Dad are members. He's the 2nd, the oldest is the girl of the family who's going to send in her papers in September. He's a few inches taller than me and pretty buff. He's a wrestler. He's also 23 so it's weird having a "kid" older than me. But he's one of the humblest guys I've ever met, he's a really hard worker, he's on fire straight from the MTC and he's willing to do whatever it takes. As for his Spanish, he pronunciates very well, but like normal it's hard for him to converse and understand. But he's been rather blessed - everytime he's done a contact, so far every person has known English, so that makes it easy for him. :)

Today's activity entails eating at the restaurant where Hector and Belkis Pernia, the husband and wife of the family that will be baptized Saturday, work as chef (Hector) and waitress (Belkis). I'm usually not a big fan of doing stuff P-Day but I'm kind of stoked for this one.

Mom, that Power and Glory tape you sent me is a big hit. I just got it returned to me yesterday after 1 month without it. In fact, it's already been used at a missionary farewell and the Stake Relief Society B-Day activity.

As for letters and packages received, I haven't gotten the 2nd card package. But the letters I have received are 27 March, 16 April, and 19 of April. We have interviews with the President in 10 days, so I'll get pouch and packages then. I'm also going to speak with you in less than one week. I'll call you guys like normal a few days in advance.

Well, I don't really have much to say, other than that I love the mission to death and I'm learning soooo much. I love you!

Chao, Nick

P.S. "Fasting in Venezuela is like a near-death experience." - Elder Christopher (his first fast Sunday in Venezuela)

P.P.S. Tell Apryl that I "send her the message." Thanks!