Hello everyone,

  So Mom received a phone call, so I will talk more about that haha.

This week has been quite a surprise.  We set Dec 15th for Gracie, 65, to be baptized.  So last tuesday we had to meet with them to sort out everything needed for the baptism: meaning teaching more commandments (which was pretty funny to teach tithing btw, we asked her if she would live the law of tithing and she looked at us like we were crazy and said of course!)  the interview for baptism, and how the baptism will be performed.  It seemed that we had alot of things to do last tuesday, and on top of all that we wanted to set a date for her husband Walter, 58.  He has been coming to church and has been motivating Gracie to investigate this church, we wanted him to prepare for Dec 29th so he has time to give up smoking.  He then said he wanted to be baptized the same day as Gracie and would give up smoking then and there, he had alot of faith and would give up anything to be closer to his wife.  So both of them were baptized last saturday and confirmed yesterday.  Walter is this big guy and they wanted me to baptize him.  Gracie wanted Elder Peters to baptized her.  I'll share a picture.  The baptism was such a spiritual experience, alot of people showed up including Gracie's older sister Willie Mae, who has been a member for I think 20 years, and her good friend Edna Nelson.  Gracie wanted Willie Mae to speak at her baptism, which was very powerful.  Sister Edna Nelson wanted to get my mother's number and Elder Peters' Mom's number to thank them.  So I think thats where the phone call came from.  They wanted me to keep in touch when I'm done with my 2 years, I think I gave my home address.

  Last tuesday Elder Peters and I moved into another apartment which is on the other side of Tuscaloosa.  Its a pretty convienent spot for missionary work, pretty close to members.  Plus it is much better the old one. (it has a much larger water heater).  This is preparation for the many sister missionaries that we will receive over the next year.  (we will have by the end of next summer 138 sister missionaries, and 112 Elders).

  If you want to see more about whats going on in this mission, I would invite you to check out our blog:  alabamamissionupdate.blogspot.com

I must say there are many people in the christmas spirit, there's so many houses with decorations.

Take care yall,

peace love and happiness,

Jacob