They stayed the night in the mission home. The next day, they were taken to the Restoration Monument. They went up the monument to get a 360 view of Santiago. Pte. Cowan then told them about all the people out there that were waiting to hear the gospel. Dallin said it was a pretty cool experience. He said that it encouraged him to work as hard as he can to help as many people as he can.
The missionaries eventually made their way to their transfer areas. Dallin has been assigned to work in Constanza. Dallin said it's really far from Santiago and is supposedly an area where only trusted missionaries are sent. It doesn't surprise me that Dallin is there. It's the highest eleveation on the island (about 4,200 feet). He says it's definitely cooler and less bugs. He's pretty excited to start there to get acclimated to the humidity without the heat. His trainer is Elder Leemaster from Georgia. There are only 2 companionships in the area (one elder; one hermana). It is only a branch and he is (by default) the 2nd Counselor in the Branch Presidency. He says he still doesn't understand much of anything, which has been frustrating. He finally admitted to receiving a minor concussion due to an accident on the One Wheel before he left. He felt that is what is hindering his ability to memorize vocabulary. However, instead of throwing up his hands and giving up, he asked his companion for a blessing. He said since that time, his ability to memorize and comprehend has improved. I have always admired his faith and his sincere desire to do good. He is working hard and is excited for the hurricane (Dorian) heading his way. Silly boy! Actually, it's probably one of the best things for him. He is a hard worker and loves to serve; what better way to connect with the people than to serve them...even if he can't communicate very well with them. He says he is having to learn how to budget and grocery shop for himself. He says the food is ok. He loves the bread! He says they are crazy drivers and there is a myriad of smells in the street...not all of which are good. He is maintaining a positive attitude even amidst the frustrations of the language and the cultural learning curve. He said he accidentally kissed a young 13 year old girl on the cheek because he wasn't sure if he was supposed to or not. I guess she has a little crush on him and simply presented her cheek for a "beso" greeting. He said he saw everyone else doing it so he bent down and pressed his cheek to hers and blew a kiss. He said it was super awkward and he got teased about it from the other missionaries. At least now he knows he isn't supposed to give "besos". He will just shake everyone's hands, which he says is questionable because of hygiene standards. Oh the adventures he'll experience! We can't wait to hear more about his "mountain" adventures on the island!
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