Family,

I can't keep track of time. Sorry I have a short email but I'll write more next week. 

It was a really good week. We didn't as many lessons this week as we usually do but they were awesome lessons. It reminded me of my Little Caesars days. Our motto then was, "Quality over Quantity." Hahaha good times. 

Elder R is freaking hilarious but he has NO idea. I've only seen him smile about 4 times so far which really surprises me because I have said a lot of funny things these last 6 weeks. I'm half way done training him and I'm a proud father/trainer. Elder R is a huge example to me. We are complete opposites when it comes to personalities, but what a blessing. I've learned more about patience from Elder R in these short weeks then I have my whole life. He works hard and doesn't complain. I swear he has ice in his veins. I've yet to make him laugh...I don't know how he's last this long. Challenge accepted. I'm learning so much more Tagalog and Elder R has played a huge role in that. We both work hard and we're having a great time. 

We have 4 elders in my apartment. 3 of us are American and then there's Elder R. The Branch calls us "One Direction," because we're all extremely handsome and these are the most Americans they've ever had at one time. 

The Group in Sta. Cecilia is struggling. The Branch President told me if I don't get more investigators there that he is going to close the group. It killed me when I heard that, If it happens I don't know what I would do. I'm trying my best but sometimes I feel way over my head. I love these people so much and it will break my heart if they close the group because of my weaknesses as a missionary. 

Shout out to my best friend, Jace Merrell. He's currently in the Mexico City, MTC. He will serve in the Iowa, Des Moines Spanish speaking Mission. He has a blog and it would be awesome if y'all follow and keep him in your prayers. A care package wouldn't hurt either;) I know he's going to be great missionary. 

I want my family to know that I love them. Thank you mom for being working the behind the scenes of my blog. I want to thank all the emails, letters, packages that everyone has kindly sent me. I wish I had more time to respond to all of you but I don't. Thank you for your prayers. I know this church is true and I'll be home soon.

Your Valiant Missionary,

Elder Strader