May 10, 2010 Hans's 1st Email From Russia!!!!

Hey family. It was nice talking to you all. I know it didn't seem like a long time, but that's just the rule. It sounds like Shane is having a good time, and it sounds like you had a good Birthday week, Dad. Sorry to get McKell's hopes down. She wrote me wondering if there is snow or if I need to wear a hat, but at this point, we don't have to wear our suit coats. When the sun is shining, it is quite nice outside, and in the bus and walking, it even gets hot periodically. Well, since you called, a few interesting things have happened. At church, the Branch President had work at first, and the 1st counselor wasn't there. They are both really good men, but they didn't tell us that they wouldn't be there. So we had to get the sacrament prepared and conduct the meeting. We found this out 5 minutes before the meeting, so we started probably 15 mintues late. All was well though and it was a learning experience. Another interesting thing is many people that speak English naturally want to talk to us. Although they are from Kurgan, they did work and study in the US. We have talked to about 6 people like that in thte past few days, so hopefully they will come to English club so that we can teach them the Gospel. Our ward had 18 people atttend Sunday, and there is probably 4 total priesthood holders, but it is very nice, and we have our own building. I am sick, but I will get well soon, and the Lord will strentgthen me. Always remember the Lord in all your doings. do not take for granted any experience that you could be grateful for. WIth gratitude comes blessings. Well. I love you all. It was nice talking. Bye.