Dearly beloved family,

This past week has been quite amazing.  It's been getting chilly here every once in awhile, as always the weather is bipolar and so it varies from day to day.  

Thanks for sending the Christmas tree in a box; it is already up in the apartment, along with 2 other trees that we received in the meantime.  We have lights strung up around the apartment and we are constantly listening to Mo Tab Christmas music.  

There sure is a lot of growth in these wards, in November there were about 8 people who were baptized and confirmed, the majority of that being a family who continues to stay strong.  I am continually amazed at even though these members have very busy lives with work and family, they are always willing to come out with us to teach so that they can share their awesome testimonies.  

As for Lilian, we've had some great lessons with her and she was able to come to church with her boyfriend and daughters, along with some other kids she takes care of.  After church they told us how much they loved the testimonies of the members and how they felt loved and accepted, something not found too often.  As we taught the Word of Wisdom she knew that it was a commandment from God and was willing to live it.  I've seen her change so much in just the little time that we've been teaching her.  

I love missionary work, especially during the holidays.  I hope you all have a great week full of Christmas cheer.

Con un abrazo fuerte,

Elder Cooley