Week 3: Earthquake Sirens

Earthquake damage in the city of Zacatepec

So there is this giant earthquake alarm that goes off whenever the slightest earthquake aftershock goes off, but that's only gone off once since the earthquake. It's scary in Mexico, though, because buildings are made of solid concrete, and not earthquake proof. Whenever there is anything over a 4 quakewise, they have to shut down everything and go in for inspections. Schools get a lot of days off here.

Yes we get to watch conference. It's the only thing on the schedule for Saturday and Sunday. I'll keep you posted on that.

They've only had 2 p-days in 3 weeks.  They are enjoying it.

So, we have tons of Latinos who have moved into our small casa of 8! Now there are 20 people living under one roof. They are SO funny! They are asked to learn English even though most of them are going to Latin America, so we are constantly going for English to Spanish, learning and teaching.They are only here for another week, but I'm happy for them. One of them just got his endowments yesterday. They have such a strong faith, and many of them have sacrificed a lot to be here. Many of them have friends or family that have been killed or died from drugs. They have very strong spirits.

P-day morning 

Elder B had to give an Elder in my casa a blessing last night. It was a powerful experience because he had never given one, but he had previously received a blessing that changed his own life. He was so worried, but when it was time, he gave a powerful blessing of comfort to this Elder. It was a great witness to me, having never given a blessing, so see the power of the Spirit in action. I pray to have that open connection with God often. 

If you want to keep me posted on major political news, that's fine by me! [Note: he may not resemble Jen, but he is definitely her son]. We heard from Elder Brandt's mom that El Presidente is calling Kim Jong Un "Rocket Man" and we were laughing pretty hard. I just like getting updates from home. Whatever seems interesting.

Love you guys, and your testimonies have strengthened me in this time. Love you!

What does your choice of p-day clothing say about you?

This photo was shared with my by the mother of Elder Rice, who is also headed to Cuernavaca with Gabe.

Gabe's MTC Group at the entrance to the Mexico City CCM (MTC)

The following photos were posted by missionaries in the Cuernavaca Mission showing damage there from the 7.1 earthquake that struck Mexico City last week.  Missionaries down there are involved in heavy cleanup efforts.  Gabe will not arrive in Cuernavaca until October 23, but the photos show what the people of his mission are dealing with.

This is right in Cuernavaca

This is the LDS chapel in Zacatepec.