Hey there family! So some shocking news from Louisiana. I am getting transferred! And I didn't even see it comin. We got the call last night at 6 while we were at a baseball game. Pretty much this whole zone is getting transferred. We have about 5 go homes and then about 1 person from from each companionship getting transferred. They are shutting down a few areas due to all the missionaries going home this transfer. There are about 20 missionaries going home tomorrow. Pretty crazy! I am really sad to leave this area because I have grown to love all of these people and all the missionaries. I am especially sad because Frances Prettyman (our investigator) is getting baptized this Saturday. She passed her interview and everything. She was very sad to hear I was getting transferred as well. We also have another investigator R. L. who came to church for the second time and is going to be getting baptized in the next 2 weeks probably. It is sad because I was here when we found them both. I met R. through tracting while on exchanges and then Frances was a member referral. It is okay though. If for some reason I get transferred close I am going to for sure go to the Baptisms! A ton of members have been very sad about me getting transferred. Especially Sister Burch and the Sanders family. I love both of those families so much. I am going up there tonight to say goodbye to them both. But on the bright side I get to see a new area!
This week has been one of the best weeks to end this transfer. It started off by having some incredible lessons with our investigators Frances and R. Then Wednesday we went on a Split exchange Elder Brimhall and I. He went to Leesville and I went to Deridder with Elder Olsen and Elder Simmons. Elder Olsen and I started off our missions together down in NOLA and the Elder Simmons came in to my district down in Houma. I love both of these missionaries!! Then to top it off the Hansens (The awesome family that lived in Gonzales) lives up there in Derridder so we met up with them and spent most of the day with them! They took us out to dinner and it was soo good. Then after we went with the Youth to play Disc Golf. It was so much fun then after we went back to the Hansens and just talked. I truly love that family. I promised them I would come back and visit them and go golfing with Brother Hansen. It was probably the best exchange thus far.
Then we came home on Thursday to a busy day of missionary work. We found a new investigator that is Solid! I give him a month or 2 and he will be baptized. Then that night we went to Zach and Cameron Sanders high school Baseball game. It was their championship game for their Region. They have won the past 6 years in a row and they won again. They are ranked number 1 in the whole state! We have been going to their games to support them and help them decide to go on a mission. Thru it all we have gained their trust and they really like us. I am going over there tonight to tell them goodbye. I know for sure one of them is going on a mission. I just need to talk to the other one and help him a little more. I really believe I was called to this area for those 2 boys. They are like my brothers. I just hope they have been able to see that a mission is so worth it and they can have a ton of fun while doing it. They are the best examples to me of living your faith. Everyone else in that school knows exactly how they stand when it come to their morals. All my nieces and nephews do what they do. Live your religion. Don't be afraid of it and think you may not be cool if you do. These two boys are both in the Student Council, most popular, most athletic, and just the best kids.
Then the rest of the week went on. We had a Stake service project on Saturday. All of the missionaries came down. I loved that part! It was a ton of fun. Even though it rained the whole entire day. We had a good time cleaning up a cemetery. Then Sunday we had 2 investigators come and a less-active we have really been working with for 2 transfers for her first time in awhile. It was a great Sunday full of a lot of hard work. One thing is for sure that I know without a doubt in my mind I have left this place better then when I have found it. I have for sure worked the very hardest as well. It has been the best. I just love everyone here. Then after church we went to the Whites home. They are the ones who sent you that picture. I love that family! They introduced me to Candied Jalapenos. I will have to find some and let you all taste one. I have really come to love spicy food since being here. It is great!
Then on Monday we did some service again. We went to Goodwill and helped out there then we went to Sister Williams house and helped dig a ditch.. I almost got bit by a Water Moccasin. It was a freaky looking Snake. I still hate snakes! Then that night we went by and taught R. L. That is when he said he wants to join our church. I know it is going to happen sooner than later. After we went to Zach and Camerons first state playoff game. They destroyed! It was a ton of fun then after we went and had the interview for Frances to be baptized. It was a great night. Then today we have had volleyball and then Bro Green cooked us up some Gumbo. Best Gumbo of my mission so far. And now we are just emailing. It was a great week!
Well that about wraps up the week. I am doing great. It sounds like you all are doing great as well. Mom that is so crazy you got my trunky papers (Flight itinerary!) I am looking forward to that day. Hey we only have 1 more P-Day until mother’s day!! I am looking forward to seeing you all. I miss you all a lot and am excited to just talk. Hey I hit 21 months this past week. Pretty crazy. Don't worry I am not trunking out, but I am for sure getting excited!! Well mom and dad be safe on your trip! The pictures look amazing! I want to go there one day. Family I love you all! Keep up the good work! Thank you for all of the prayers. You are the best! Love you!
Elder Smith
ps How did Jen do in the Boston??
pss I went in for just an MRI on Friday. I haven't found out any results yet. I don't know how long it is going to be especially because I am now getting transferred. Who knows we will see!
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