Mexico.

I had such an amazing experience in Tijuana this year. We went again to build homes with Builders without Borders. I was so hesitant to go to Mexico because people tend to dwell on the negative and all I was hearing were things that would make a person nervous. I got a blessing from Logan because I needed some comfort. It was great. I love the priesthood.

We started our trip and stopped in Vegas. The next morning, we got up early and headed to TJ. We got to the border around 2 and sat for an hour or so. We had to get all the trailers through. After Logan did a lot of chatting with the border patrol in spanish, we got through. As soon as we got into TJ, I forgot how much I love the people there. They are so sweet and simple. We got the stake center and unpacked all the donations and got settled.

Sunday was an incredible day. We were able to attend 3 sacrament meetings- one of which was a primary program. It was so sweet to hear all the songs that I was working on as Primary Chorister in my ward all in spanish. It was great. That night, we did a fireside. I had the chance to speak on education. We did a musical number, and people seemed to enjoy it. The spirit was so strong.

Monday we made it to the job site. The first impression I got from the site was one of fear. The home next to the job site was a drug house. Automatically, my thoughts went to those negative things people were telling me back home. I dismissed them as soon as I met the wonderful family we were able to build a house for. They made the whole trip worth it.

The Soel family were the sweetest, kindest people I've ever met. Even though there was a language barrier, it didn't matter. You could tell they really were so grateful and gracious. I became friends with their little ninos. It was so cool. I had so many great experiences.

Towards the end of the trip, the whole thing became worth it when the family were able to move their stuff in (when I say stuff, I mean... the clothes on their back, plus a few blankets, and a mattress.) We were able to furnish the house somewhat with bunkbeds, a couch, fridge, stove, oven, microwave, and some other small things. The spirit that was in that home was incredible. There wasn't a dry eye in the place. I love serving. I love forgetting myself. I love the Soel family. They taught me so much about love and that worldly items are not needed to be happy. It's a choice. I was so grateful for them. Here we come TJ 2011!