Las Calabazas y Una Monja

We've decorated the sala here at SALI with pumpkins and other such gords. The Peruvians think we're crazy for decorating our place with "calabazas" and I do have to admit that we North Americans have some weird ways about us. The students keep asking us if we plan to eat them and when we tell them no, they become even more confounded by our decorating.

Thanksgiving is tomorrow and the weather here feels like May. Maybe I should be celebrating Cinco de Mayo instead. The missionaries will gather for a "feast" tomorrow that will not include turkey, and I can't say that I'm too disappointed. Though I will be missing my family and mom's mashed potatoes and berry pie.

I've been in Peru for four months now. I really love this place and my Spanish improves little by little. Peru Mission continually amazes me with its holistic approach to the Gospel. Not only is the Gospel going forth, but there are educational, medicinal, and economic development endeavors as well. I am teaching Basic 7 English this month. I have 6 students who are all very bright and fun.

I spent last weekend at the beach with a couple of girls from SALI. It was challenging to talk in Spanish for 6 hours, but with some repetition I was able to communicate. They asked me my views on abortion, and speaking in my broken Spanish, I tried to explain my views and how God works into all of that. Oh, how I pray the Gospel goes forth in spite of my inability to speak the language.

The missionaries had a murder mystery dinner last weekend. I played the part of a bitter old nun who hated men and alcohol. Here's a picture for your viewing pleasure.