FROM SHELBY

The same day that Jacob sent the email below we were able to skype with him.  The connection was terrible and he could barely hear us.  They provide ear buds at the MTC for all of the missionaries, but Jacob did not seem to think they worked all that great.  He could hear me fine (yes!), Kiernan ok, and no matter what Mike said, Jacob could NOT hear him.  Apparently the earbuds are made by the same company as Alexa, because she can't hear a word Mike says either...much to his annoyance.

All of his roommates were in their room talking to their parents as well, so the boys were all talking at the same time and introducing each other to their families while we spoke.  Jake seems really impressed with the other boys, I think he'll be making some really good friends there.

He hung out on his bunk while chatting with us.

I found the blog of the senior missionary couple that are currently watching over the kids in Jake's mission.  Their time will be over just a few months after Jacob gets there, but for now they are a fantastic resource for seeing how missionary life in the Ukraine works.  Here it is in case you want to check it out : https://dcandsc.blogspot.com/  

I've actually spoken with the husband Dave Caron several times about "mission stuff", so it's likely that when Jacob arrives there he may hear that they know his mom...I'm not sure if he'd find that funny or frustrating. Oh well!  :)