Elliot's August 19 email

We got our first email from Elliot today.  He's feeling much better, thankfully.  Here is his email address: elliot.adair@myldsmail.net.  And here is his email of today:

Hey family! I love you all and miss you all but am happy and doing well!

I'm not sure if you got my letter yet, but i did get pretty badly sick the second night of the MTC. I had a viral infection of the intestines that was supposed to last for up to a week, but was better after a few days thanks to a blessing from my companion and a lot of prayer. I wasn't supposed to get back to eating solids for like 7 days, but was able to after like 2.

I've already been thrown into the fire with teaching, but feel like I am doing very well and really think that the missionary training program back home really helped. I've learned a lot of Spanish already and feel overwhelmed a bit but think it's nothing that I can't handle. I've have an awesome companion Elder Phillips, from Draper, UT, who seems very willing to do the hard work necessary to learn a new language. I'm grateful for that and have some really awesome teachers.

The MTC food is admittedly horrible. It's like the Canon Center a BYU, but a bit worse. I'm just trying to eat pretty healthy so that i can stay feeling good. This morning we went to the temple and went to it's cafeteria after, and I enjoyed a $8 breakfast. Definitely the best food I've had out here. But I have been able to sleep well. All the work is tiring, but super rewarding. I am doing well and am just doing my best to be happy.

I have a really cool district and feel way close to them already, like I've known some of them my whole life. I'm grateful for that and for the support they've been and for the fun we've been able to have. We all go out and play soccer for gym, and it's great. I even scored a goal yesterday! So I'm having a good time for sure.

The work is also enjoyable too. I definitely feel the Spirit a lot, and have already practiced teaching a lot. I've also learned how to meet people in Spanish and tell them what I believe. It's slightly daunting, but when I just slow down and let the Spirit in, I have no problem communicating what I need to. It's really incredible out here like that.

I've seen a lot of friends out here from college and stuff, including Elder Peacock today (you can tell his mom he's still alive). That's a lot of fun, but I can't wait to see all the guys from back home come in here. Also please give a thousand thanks to the Sarmiento's for me. It meant a lot to me to be able to spend that last bit with them and I'm super grateful for that. And I'm grateful for all of your support and love! Please pray for me, I know that I could definitely use it. I love you guys and send my love to the ward as well!

Much love!

Elder Elliot Adair