January 19, 2011 Letter

Hey dad,
so this week we had a lot of good times. me and my companion are getting a long so well and we are so alike. President Smedley helps so much also. Sister Smedley calls me every night to help me feel better about things and to just talk. They both are amazing. We had to move our 3 baptisms back a few weeks cause they aren't ready for it yet. We sure need more investigators though. Every night we are super busy but during the day people are at school and we go finding usually. Elder Thompson sure is a big help. He always finds a way to make me laugh. The other night I was talking to Sister Smedley on the phone after a good day and Elder Thompson gets up while I'm talking and starts dancing like he's got something going for him. It was sure funny. Even though he can't dance just like me. 
Up to this point I have lost a lot of weight. I have lost 45 pounds in 3 weeks. Losing more and more everyday. I don't have money to buy new pants to replace the ones that won't even stay up with belts that are too big. It is just another struggle. Not a hard one. 
I am trying everyday to focus on the atonement of Jesus Christ. Everything in this gospel comes from that pivotal  moment in history. He saved each one of us through  that awe inspiring event.  Every hard time that we have, every tear that falls, every pain we feel, every down moment we have, and anything that we are not perfect with in covered by the power of the atonement. Every time  I am homesick I know that Jesus Christ has gone through that. I pray everyday for the strength to push on. And i receive that strength. I am thankful for my amazing family which supports me. For the prayers in my behalf, and every little thought about me. I feel the power of a strong family at home. Thank you all so much! I love you all! I will continue to pray for you daily. 

Love Elder Nordgren