Hey Fam

Aug 9, 2010

Glad to hear the whole Alaska trip went well. I'm expecting some good pictures. It sounds like it was a lot of fun. Well I think you probably got more rain this last week than I did. We didn't get any. It was a bit strange. Don't worry though, it was still hot and humid.

Yes Mom, I did get the package with the insoles my last day in the MTC. Thank you so much. It sounds like they were a pain to find, but they work well.

Well, things are going good here in Old Harbour. We have several investigators that are progressing and doing well. Sister Follette, I think I told you a bit about her before, is really cutting down on the smoking. This should be her her last week before she quits for good. She also kicked her man friend out of the house! We met another lady, Sister Kelly in church last Sunday and she is doing well, except for the whole living with a man thing. I hate that problem. It seems like few people actually get married because it is too expensive and too committal. Anyway, we are also teaching a lady named Melissa who was a referral from one of the branch members. She is awesome and very receptive. All three of these sisters and some of their kids were actually at church yesterday! It is so funny because everyone we talk to on the street says, "Ya mon, I'll come to church one of these Sundays," but no one has ever come. I tell you what, when that one Sunday does come around we're going to need a bigger building.

So, Elder Ronhaar and I declared war with the mice in our kitchen this week. We caught 3 with sticky traps. The other night we chased one around the apartment with our machetes until we got it. Don't worry though, there's still more.

Speaking of Machetes, I am getting pretty good with mine. I was studying the story of Ammon, and I realized that missionary success is directly related to one's ability to use a blade, so I've been putting in some practice. This past week we chopped yard for two different sisters in the branch. The other day while street contacting I was able to stop and help an old man chop grass while my companion shared a message. Don't know if it did much good, but it was fun. We did get a return appointment so who knows.

I love the food here. We've only been fed by members a couple of times, but we eat off the street fairly regular. The classic is either jerk chicken or pork with steamed veggie and rice and beans. I love all the fruit especially. So far I've had soursop, guinup, 4 different kinds of mango, banana, and jelly (unripe coconut). A lot of people have fruit trees, so as we go around people just give it to us.

Well, things are going well. I'm working hard and having fun, so it's all good. Love you all lots.
Elder Kartchner