The whole extended family spoke with Elder Ludwig today for Mother's Day. It was kind of a jumbled phone call - with the one and a half second "lag" and with so many of us on the conference call at the same time. He sounded happy and humble and anxious to continue working hard to accomplish the things Heavenly Father sent him to do and the personal goals he's set for himself.
They've met with the Isa family several more times this week and found several other great new investigators as well. They get fewer member referrals in Liniers and do a lot of walking and street contacts, but he loves the area.
Earlier in the day, a family fed Elder Wessman and Drew a delicious Peruvian ceviche for lunch - which Drew loved - and they were enjoying chocolate milk and cookies at the Battista's home while making their phone calls. They were also treated to an asado this week. Drew's enjoying trying new things and said, "Bring it on"! He's been healthy except for the severe headache and nausea which also kept him awake several nights this past week. Prices are on the rise in Argentina, but they splurged on the dulce de leche helado (ice cream) they love yesterday for Elder Wessman's birthday. They ran out of allowance this two-week period but will get their new (increased for inflation) allotment tomorrow.
Many of the people they meet and teach are either Peruvian or Bolivian immigrants. Only those who have lived in Argentina for a length of time speak Castillian Spanish. Drew said his accent and pronunciation is very good (we got to hear him speak a little Spanish) but he still needs to increase his vocabulary. Most of the chapels in BsAs include American style basketball courts which the Elders enjoy using on their P Day along with playing a little futbol.
Drew really enjoyed the time he spent with Elder Curtis on their last "Division" and a friendship was formed. He overcame some personal barriers (i.e. confidence) which he felt were holding him back just a bit, learned a lot about teaching effectively and balancing working hard while still being true to himself and letting others see his inner joy which comes through our Savior and His gospel.
People in the villas he saw with Elder Curtis are basically poor, government-subsidized "squatters" who throw up small brick and wood houses wherever they can find a spot. Liniers is a "laid back", nicer area on the fringes of the Federal District.
He knows the missionaries have a beautiful, true message. They hope that perfect obedience, efforts and trusting in the Lord will help them find many willing to listen and accept His gospel and they will fend off discouragement when many choose not to hear.
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