Halfway Day

Today marks one year since Matt officially became Elder Young and entered the MTC.  I'd like to say that it has gone fast, but I would be lying.  For some strange reason,which I have yet to figure out, it seems like he has been gone longer than Rachel (who returns in 2 months and 16 days, just in case anyone was wondering).  Don't know how that's possible, but it feels that way.  I miss him, but I certainly wouldn't wish him to be anywhere else.



So far, Elder Young has had a great experience on his mission and is learning a lot about himself, the gospel, and how to serve others.  I know that he doesn't share some info with me that he knows will freak me out, but I also know that Heavenly Father will protect and guide him.  I may be learning just as much about faith as he is.  When we talked to him on Christmas, we learned that he had been robbed "only once so far."  Perhaps it is more by now, but he may not tell me until he gets home.  He has also been sick a couple of times, but as he wrote me once, "Don't worry, Mom.  The Cipro usually helps me feel better."  Better living through pharmacology, I guess.

He's had some rather primitive living conditions.  This is his
"bathtub" for his first area.  He said it was kind of outside.  Nice.

He says he eats well,  These lovely concoctions are some sausages
that the zone leaders made for them.  Looks like internal organs to me.

Some of the food is more recognizable.

Matt has also gotten to serve in various ways on his mission.  He has used a machete to cut back overgrowth, painted, worked on a farm, and also helped to build a clay brick oven.  He will be pretty resourceful when he gets home.

He has grown to love the Honduran people and the opportunity he has to share the gospel with them.  Of course, there have been frustrations and disappointments as well, but overall, he is happier than he has ever been and will hopefully be willing to come home in another year.

With "an awesome member family"

At one of his first baptisms

No, he has not grown a foot since he left.  Hondurans are
generally quite short.  He sometimes looks like a giant.

His first Christmas away was okay.  Having the Millers here
kinda lessened the loneliness.  Next Christmas, Rachel will be here!

This is what they call a "family picture" in the mission.
It is Matt with his trainer and the first missionary he trained.

He sent this picture with the caption, "Me, ready to go!"

I'm so grateful for the opportunity that both Matt and Rachel have had to serve missions.  Of course, I miss them, achingly so some days, but their missions help them to grow and bring a unique spirit into our home.  You won't read this for another year, Elder Matt, but I love you and miss you and hope that the last half of your mission flies by. . . at least for me.  Return with honor!