So it turns out that Perú doesn't celebrate Christmas quite like the states (I mean, go figure, it's a different country) but I mean, i was seriously scratching my head on this one.
So, they celebrate Navidad in the time IN BETWEEN Christmas Eve and Christmas. Christmas day isn't a huge thing here.
But, like all "wonderful things", thats not all! Oh no, because why would it be?
To start off dinner was at 11:30 last night, so me and my comp went to bed hungry (not gonna wait that long, plus we were tired) but Peruvians celebrate Christmas by launching fireworks and firecrackers.
All.
Night.
I'm un poco loco right now if you can't tell
I went to bed listening to Tab Choir... only way to block out the noise. Even then it took me a long while before I actually got to sleep.
Anyway, what else happened this week?
Goofy interactions:
One woman asked me in broken English (and a lot of Google translate) if my hair color was authentic.
I explained American Christmas traditions and Christmas dinner to a curious family. My comp was very suprised to hear naughty children get coal in their stocking. He was like ¿¡Que!? (Literally just "What!?")
We went and had dinner with a member last night. When she found out I speak English/American she wanted to practice her English. Then, she asked me if she could get recordings of me talking for her English profesor. 3 recordings, each about a different thing and at different speeds. What was really funny was when I had to talk about my home town, I did so at like ×10 speed and the woman and my comps face go blank. Afterwards, he turns to me and goes "now I know how you feel when I talk fast".
The profesor responded and said something along the lines of "wow, incredible. It's super clear and pronounced". The lady now wants me to teach her English.
On the way out of her house I hit my head on the top of her door. It was that short.
HOW IN BLAZES AM I SO STINKING TALL HERE
Spiritual experiences!
We've taught like 2 to 3 lessons a day while I've been here. And, during that time, my comp will turn to me and say "my comp will now explain XYZ". The first time he did this he wanted me to explain the fall of Adam. The only way I knew what he wanted me to teach was I had my PME open beneath me and I saw the word he used.
In either case, I've taught so many principles while I've been here, it's awesome! Truly the highlight of my day.
I do also want to mention that the concepts my comp asks me to teach are ones I'm not really prepared for. I definitely wasn't comfortable with my Spanish enough to teach the fall, and yet somehow I still did. Don del lenguas, for sure. (Gift of tounges)
Oh! I also helped a member build a new roof for her house! That was really cool because I'd never done anything like that before, and she loved the work that we did. I'll include a photo.
I would like to conclude with my testimony.
I know that God lives, and that through him all things are possible. I know that he sees his struggling children and helps them in ways that will help them grow. I know that spiritual gifts are real, and a crucial part of our lives.
I believe and I know that our Savior lived, went through Gethsemane for us, died, and rose the 3rd day triumphant over everything. And because of this, we are a part of an effort that isn't losing, but all ready WON. We've WON, because of Christ. All I'm doing is teaching that they need not fear.
And, you don't have to fear, either. Come unto Christ. Come and see. He will give you rest.
Chau until next week!
- Elder Bahnmiller
1. A family Christmas tradition! Matching PJs!
2. Christmas foosball with a lemon
3. Christmas dinner???
4. Yo guys we finally got garbage trucks! Dunno why this brought me hope seeing this... (and MAYBE a few tears were shed...)
5. Finished roof
6. Me and comp working on said roof
7. A blurry mototaxi (3 wheeled mayhem taxi is more like it)
8. We don't have golden hour here... its more like fire hour
9. Hot chocolate and Panatón! (Sweet bread with mysterious fruit chunks in it. A Gringo favorite!)
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