December 6, 2010

MOM AND DAD,
Well, here I am again, just been transferred and had a baptism on Saturday. It went real smooth. His name is J and he is a 18 year old guy who was introduced to the church by a member. His family are not members but are very supportive and were touched at his baptism. We are going to try to start teaching his parents this week.
Ankeny is so different from the rest of the mission. This town reminds me of Anthem / Scottsdale mixed together. Its a very new and fast growing town with very wealthy, established people living here. I'm still in culture shock.
My companion is Elder Curtis. He's way solid and is really showing me the ropes of the Zone Leader thing. There is so much more to plan for. We planned for almost 2 days last week to get every thing set up for the transfer and to get out goals established for the zone. Yesterday we had to give a presentation the the Stake Presidency at a missionary coordination meeting. I now have a greater appreciation for Stake Presidents and Bishops. There is so much that goes on behind the curtains to run the church.
All and all every thing is good. The ward is HUGE! and they are very very helpful and engaged in the work. It reminds me of a ward at home or a ward in Salt Lake. The members are awesome, and actually played a prank on me last night for being the new guy, I'll have to tell you another time.
I didn't get your letter last week. Elder Noel should forward it to me soon. I have some things that I was thinking about for Christmas, mainly books. Ill get it to you next week.
I LOVE YOU ALL -Elder Hale
P.S. I can Skype for Christmas, so you will have to get that connected and up and running!!!!!