New Area: Ixtepec

TRANSFER DAY! 

I just got to my new area after a total of about 8 hours traveling. My new area is Ixtepec. I forgot what it was like to be in the humidity. It hit me like a brick wall getting off the bus, but I strangely feel at home. My new companion is Elder Villegas from Guatemala. I've known him for about 2 hours and we've it off really good. I don't know if i just get along with everybody or God is blessing me with awesome companions. Maybe a little bit of both. 

It was sad leaving Nochixtlan. 6 months of blood, sweat and tears is hard to leave behind. I tried to get pictures with all of the members and investigators that I came to love so dearly.

And when I say blood I mean it because I got bit by a full grown German shepherd last week. We were walking down the street minding our own business when suddenly this huge dog came up behind a truck running full blast at me. It didn't let out a single bark and before I could say Perro! it clenched on to my foot. Luckily he went for my foot because my shoe protected me. It was still able to get a tooth into my skin on the higher part of my foot. Its bruised up pretty bad but it could have been a lot worst. It held on to me for a few seconds but then let go because its owner saw what was happening and yelled from a distance. First time getting bit by a dog. And it was a German shepherd so I feel pretty cool. 

I am really excited about working here in Ixtepec. The culture in this region of Oaxaca is really cool and I've heard the food is incredible. A lot of fried foods. I can't wait to get working because the people are really loving here and supposedly they always let you in their doors. It's also famous for witchcraft and just weird things that happen in the streets. So it should be fun. 

Love you all! Happy Birthday, Mom! I hope Dad spoils you a bit ;)

-Elder Smith