Today is one of those days I wish you could all see for yourselves. It is freezing cold but sunny and blue skies- my favorite kind of day. Russia is beautiful.
Elder Barnes and I just visited Mamaev Koorgan in Volgograd and it was incredible. I have seen it many times from the street, but there was so much more to see! So many statues, monuments and so much history. There is one part with a huge torch that constantly burns with guards and everything. We got to see the changing of the guard and went all the way up to the statue where there are over 34000 people buried! Way cool experience, and we were the only people there because it is in the negatives today and real windy. Loved it though! Pics below!!
We had Zone Conference on Tuesday and had the pleasure of having the Miners with us as well as two of their kids! It was a great day, learned so much. President Miner challenged us to read our Patriarchal Blessings to find our spiritual gifts and when I read mine I had a really cool spiritual experience. All of you that have one of those sacred blessings, read it and study it often!
Thursday we had a District lunch for Christmas. It was a good time with my favorite people and we threw together a delicious Christmas meal.
Woke up Friday morning to open my presents- thanks Mom! But the best gift came Friday night when I was able to call home. It was pretty special to Skype my family, especially with the other Elder Tucker who will be home in 2 days!!
It was tough to say bye but it was exactly what I needed, to see you all and hear your voices. Thanks for being the best ever!!
Saturday was the Branch Christmas party. We threw it together, in not much time and thought it would be a big flop, but it turned out to be a huge hit. We still don't know how, but a bunch of people came and lots of little kids all dressed up. It was a fun night with good food, music, mini talent show, games, etc. We even had a decorated Christmas tree!
We will be spending a couple days in the apartment this weekend due to the New Year's madness. It is supposed to be below -10 this weekend so staying in might be a huge blessing! In Russia, New Years is just like our Christmas with trees and presents and all that good stuff. It is a huge deal to them! Excited to experience it.
Didn't have many teaching opportunities this week, most appointments fell through. But like usual we met some really awesome people on the streets. Just pray for teaching opportunities for us!
That is all, until next week!! Thanks for all the love, prayers and support!!
Much Love,
Elder Tucker
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