January 19, 2012 Email

Dear Mom and Dad,

I moved! Elder Wang, in one fail swoop, became Senior, Trainer, District Leader. He's training a cool Elder from Thailand. I feel sorry for Elder Wang, haha! I moved to Yuanlin, which is still in Zhanghua county, but in Nantou Zone. I took a 14 minute train ride to get here! Its a big change, I'm used to having to travel far distances on move day.

My new companion is Elder Baker, this is his 3rd move call. He's really great, he seems really nice and relaxed, but he also seems to be focused on the work. He was trained here in Yuanlin by my first District Leader, Elder McAllister, so he knows his way around. He's from Idaho Falls, 5 siblings. That's about all I know, I've only been here for an hour. Haha!

It was great to get Emails from some of my old friends, and Richie wrote me. I miss my family and friends, but I really love being a missionary, and I love being in Taiwan with the Taiwanese people.

I do feel better, thank you. Only a little tired, that's what happens on move day. Its funny I use to think that P day was a real blessing, now I think it is inconvenient. I much prefer Sunday, even though Sunday is really stressful for missionaries. I enjoy taking the sacrement, its often a very spiritually uplifting experience for me.

I love the Savior! He loves me, He atoned for me! Because of His atonement, our family can be eternal! I know these things are true because I've recieved personal revelation through the Holy Ghost. Its a great feeling. My big after-mission goal is to endure to the end, because I use to be less active. So I'm trying to live a lifestyle that will prepare me for after the mission.

Dad, the reason I can actually run in the mornings is because I have a goal to start running with you after I get home. It helps me stay focused on how missionary work blesses our family. When we stay indoors to exercise, I have a really embarrassing goal of wanting to be in better shape for my wife's sake. I didn't even want the stupid goal, but every morning, I without fail remember it! Argh! Anyways, its interesting, I often try to make goals that will improve my relationship with you both, or will help me have a good relationship with my wife.

I love you! Have a great week!

-Elder Travis Leatham