In which I give birth

Hello everyone! A very exciting last week. The work was very slow, but there was enough to take care of anyway. Between Elder Feng's death and transfers, we've been all over the place. 

We can start with my dear companion, Elder Feng. He passed away peacefully yesterday at 11:25AM after we left him at the mission office to head back to the city. He's excited to head back to China for a few months before heading to BYU-I in the spring. Ladies, he's single. Highly recommended. 

For transfer news, Elder Norby decided to have a little fun. He gathered all of the branch missionaries together on Sunday after church and began to describe his Book of Mormon reading the previous night. He started sharing scriptures that he "thought might enlighten us" and "give us direction". For example, he shared with Elders Feng and Yang (both who were heading home) scriptures from Alma about men who died of old age. He told Elder Mourino about those who built ships and sailed across the many waters to get to the Promised Land (also known in this instance as Tasmania). When Elder Norby got to me, he opened to 1 Nephi 17 and "read":

1 And it came to pass that we did again take our journey in the wilderness; and we did travel nearly eastward from that time forth. And we did travel and wade through much affliction in the wilderness; and Elder Blackhurst did bear children in the wilderness. 

So, long story short. I'm training a new Elder from China starting tomorrow and I'm absolutely terrified. It's going to be incredible. 

On an unrelated note, shoutout to my dear cousins Koen and Jarom who built an awesome gingerbread land speeder and are carrying on my legacy. Koen, when I get home, we're building the Death Star. Keep up it. 

Short letter this week, not a lot of content - we're trying to get out of the library quick so I can go stalk my new companion before he finds out I'm training him. Heaven knows I'm going to need all the help I can get. I have faith and trust that this calling was giving to me from God, and I will do my best to serve to my fullest. 

I miss you all tons. I reflect more and more often on the things each and every person I've ever met has taught me in their words and examples and I'm grateful for each and every one of you. I hope I have the chance to pass these things on to my own son, Elder Liu. 

Wish me luck and keep me in your prayers - I'm gonna need it. 

Elder Blackhurst