IN REPLY TO A POSTCARD FROM MOM & PAPA ON THEIR VACATION TO SAN FRANCISCO

Dear Mom, (and Papá)

Well, I've got a little sliver of time right now for "lunch" but I wanted to take the opportunity to write you back! Based on the postmarked date it only took two days for your letter to arrive, so hopefully this will come Wednesday or so.

It's so good to hear you and Papá have been able to get away for a while and have 5 minutes peace. I'm sure Calvin won't mind taking care of the younger ones to give you a moment to relax.

One thing I really miss about normal life is the chance to relax on Sundays. It seemed so weird to me at first, to be working every day of the week except Thursday. But I've since come to recognize that I can still feel the same Spirit on Sundays, while busily engaged in the Lord's work.

Having been out almost a year now, and being mostly familiar with the way things work, I'm starting to look at it all in different ways.; I'm beginning to recognize how much happiness and joy can be found in this great work of the Lord. Lots of times it seems we do our work each day so that we can get to the time when we can do the things that "really" make us happy or that are "really" fun.

Today I had somewhat of an epiphany as a cool couple with their new-born baby were following us down to Bothell to the Spanish ward. I found I was stressing out, worrying about how church was going to be; if we'd be early, etc. That's when I realized that such a wonderful thing as their coming to church should be something that brings me joy to see! After all, they were my brothers and sister, and they were doing the things that would bring them joy int his life and fullness of joy in the next. Why wasn't I feeling happy? And then, I did! I was rather surprised the lasting kind of happiness I suddenly felt in that moment. It was very satisfying, and an incredible "break-through" so-to-speak. I know as I continue to look for the promised joy that missionary work brings, I'll have an even greater desire to share it.

Anyway, that was my cool moment for the past couple days :). I love those learning experiences. They always help me to know that the Lord is continually mindful of me and all his children.
The snail mail is really fun for me now. I really had a hard time with it at first, but I'm used to the slower pace now. It was just hard getting used to waiting a week or so before getting a reply. :) But have no worries. At least from this end, you too have become a lot better and following through with the mail process. Not just for you, but the kids too! So don't feel too bad; you're making a lot of progress. :)

That's cool to hear your Red Iguana story. Hey! Recado! That's what it's called! I've had mole a bunch of times and really like it! I remember hearing that it had cocoa in it, like the sauce you put in chuchos, but I could never remember what it was called! Wow, it's amazing to me how different the Guatemalan & the Mexican cultures are! I always assumed they'd be a lot alike, but up to now, it seems the language is the closest thing. And even then there are many differences! Have you ever had posole? We eat that all the time too!

Wpw, you slept in?! 'Till 11:00!?! Jeez! You must have really needed the break! It's good to hear you're making the most of all of it, even if it isn't in Italy.

There are plenty of tiendas all over the areas I've served. There's a taco truck called "Tacos Pihuamos" that makes great tacos de carnitas. I've even gotten a burrito de lengua that was great too! Still haven't done the Ducales thing though. But we get "paid" on Wednesday, so I'll be sure to grab some on P-day.

Hey, how come we (as kids) never heard about all that getting married stuff between you and Papá? All I remember is Papá not getting a ticket, but instead being escorted back to school (or work?) by a policeman after speeding down I-15 from a date with you! But that's okay, I love you anyway!

Con gran amor,

Elder Sean

P.S. Give my love to Brig and Tara, and tell them thanks again for the shirts! Oh, and I liked the "Ord Brothers" Logo. :D