Baptism in a Pool

Once of the first things that Travis and his new companion, Elder K. from Salt Lake City, got to experience together was M.'s baptism.

M. is a truly remarkable young man who was ready and eager to accept the Gospel of Jesus Christ into his life. He was baptized in a backyard swimming pool belonging to one of the Church members there.

Travis was able to Skype with us on Christmas day from the same family's home and enjoyed a delicious barbecue to celebrate the day.

This is where Travis and his companion live. They even decorated a bit for Christmas.

Travis can always be counted on to send home photos of soccer fields and other things he knows we love.

If his shoes are any indication, he's been working very hard these past 18 months!

Travis has really enjoyed training and teaching Elder K. They've had a great time together and seen many miracles.

For the last photo of this post, here are all the missionaries in the Chile Concepción South Mission as of December 2015. I always know to look for Travis in the back row, and there he is--tallest Elder in the middle. Love him so!

Cabrero

For the past three months Elder Woodfield has been serving as a missionary in Cabrero, Chile and its neighboring town of Monte Aquila. This sign says it best. He and his companion have truly been "working machines."

As winter ended in the southern hemisphere Travis and Elder O. (from Brazil) have walked the streets and footpaths of these towns through biting cold, pouring rain, and the blazing afternoon sun of a Chilean spring.

He's served and loved and learned from the beautiful people here.

Of course, being Travis, he sends home numerous photos of food.

He may be a working machine, but every once in a while, on P-days, he and the other missionaries can play a little--be it on a fútbol field, a snowy volcano, or by a waterfall.

Travis turned 20 last month, and like a true adult he spent the day working. He did, however, buy a Chilean apple pie to celebrate with his companion. (Yes, that candle is a Q-tip.)

My mother-heart is comforted to know that he is happy and finding joy in his service and sacrifice.  I am grateful for his personal growth and spiritual journey to truly know God and that he finds simple pleasures along the way.

After twelve weeks together Elder O. has been transferred to a different city and Elder Woodfield will be TRAINING his next companion--a brand new missionary fresh from the Missionary Training Center. On to the next adventure!

Saying Goodbye to Traiguen

After almost six months, Elder Woodfield is leaving Traiguen. Elder F. from Arizona (second from left) was Travis' last companion there.

It is always sad to leave the people you've befriended and loved, but Travis takes with him memories of miracles and faith and much personal growth.

Good-bye Traiguen.