Laranjeiras

Hey guys,

Well, this email won't be too long, as I talked with you on Christmas and not much has happened since. But, this week has gone well. Back to work! We've been working really hard and doing our best to work with the ward members. As a result, we've one of the biggest teaching groups that I've had since I've been in this area. We have some baptismal dates marked and January should be a good month. We participated in a ward council where the ward made a goal to baptize 12 people in the next 4 months! We hope the ward makes some good changes and starts baptizing. For the year of 2010, the ward only baptized 6 or 7 people, so hopefully the work continues to grow.

This is the last week of the transfer. I'm curious to see what happens. I've been in this area for 3 transfers, but only been with Elder Lewis for 1. I kind of see me staying 1 more transfer to finish training him. I wouldn't mind staying for another transfer. Elder Lewis is fun and I feel like I can continue to help him grow. I'll find out this weekend and let you know in my next email!

Today we're going to get lunch with 2 other Elders. They want to eat turtle and as I haven't had it yet, I might try it out too. Some members say that it's tasty...If I end up eating it, I'll send a report...


Well, it's official. I've been serving for more than a year and a half. I'm excited but really nervous to think that in 6 months I'll be home. I'm still working and have made a goal to try and be the best missionary I've been for my entire mission. I want to end these last 6 months working hard and helping others to come unto Christ.

I know this email isn't long, but I can't think of what else to say. Hope all is going well with you! Have a great week! I loved talking on the phone on Christmas! Miss you!

Love,
Elder Eric C. Stapley