When we called the mission office the sister who was there told us that a large number of calls come in each day where the caller speaks Spanish and that she was the only one there who even spoke ‘fractured’ Spanish. As we thought about this we decided that since Mary took a couple of years of Spanish in high school and one year in college that she should take advantage of the tutoring service at the MTC.
So we called Maria’s office and set it all up. The program calls for purchasing a large amount of material from the bookstore…after our 40% discount it still came to over $100…which we did. Maria then appointed Mary a tutor and she will start 3 days a week lessons starting today at 11:00.
I am not going to take lessons because I know that I have absolutely no abilities for learning to hear and speak a foreign language. I will try to learn how to read the Book of Mormon in Spanish and maybe I will be able to pick up some Spanish over the next 18 months or so.
While I am writing I will mention that last night – the 12th – we spoke at the Empty Nesters social about our mission to South Africa. Mary put together an excellent slide show and did most of the narration with me breaking in to add a few comments from time to time. We ran about 10 minutes long but that was OK as most of the people seemed to enjoy seeing and hearing about Africa. However when we were done the rest quickly left.
We’re excited and happy for you and will be looking forward to reading your blog again. Who knows, maybe during your mission we might be able to go out again! Hope to see you before you go.
Why not join us in Fort Lauderdale? It sounds like the President would love to have some seasoned missionaries to work with members and leadership. Of course we would love to have the opportunity to serve with you again. Maybe we could find another Summerfield type restaurant to go to.
We are so excited for your coming!
Yes, I consider my Castellano to be under par since serving a mission to Uruguay and Paraguay ’60-’62. It helped though to serve in the Bountiful Temple assisting with patrons in Spanish sessions just prior to our call here. Every little bit helps. Your Spanish skills are needed!
Sister Steimle…
Mary is having a good time learning Spanish and I am enjoying watching. By the time we get there, she will be quite good and hopefully will continue to study and learn while on our mission.
Thank you for your thoughts and help. We look forward to meeting you when we get to Fort Lauderdale.