Kim Hofhiens

OH…hmmm.

I had to make Visa appointments for 5 people, and the woman on the line only spoke Spanish. The call wasn’t cheap either so I had to get it right. But, when she didn’t have the dates I wanted, I panicked! I took the date she offered. Unfortunately that date was the same date asContinue reading “OH…hmmm.”

Éxito

It may sound like a way out – but it really means “success”. This Elder is a success because he memorized 4 scriptures in English. Now, he gets to enjoy the sweet awards of success. English speaking Elders and Sisters memorize 4 scriptures in Spanish to earn the same sweet awards as the Elder picturedContinue reading “Éxito”

Hidden Talents?

it’s a bit crazy, but I am as surprised by my new (lucky) talent as anyone. I have only hosted occasional family gatherings and when I did those, I really only concentrated on the food – not the decorations! In the mission, however, the Office secretary is expected to do many things. Decorating the tablesContinue reading “Hidden Talents?”

STREET SMARTS?

We live in Escazú, San José Costa Rica. Escazú is a suburb of the big city and it is considered one of the nicest areas in the city. On our way to the office we pass this street sign. It is a funny sign. It helps us laugh at ourselves, forgive ourselves for the folliesContinue reading “STREET SMARTS?”

ERRORES

It seems that even though WE try to be very diligent about it, sometimes we fill out the paperwork incorrectly. A visa can’t be awarded if the information is wrong – and we got an Elder’s name AND his nationality wrong. Unfortunately, this type of error can only be corrected at the main Immigration CenterContinue reading “ERRORES”

Blessed to Serve

“Some people go through life feeling like they hit a home run, when in reality they were lucky enough to be born on third base.” This expression is a reality check that provides a humbling perspective of our achievements – and engenders an awareness of the burdens others may carry. Many young men and womenContinue reading “Blessed to Serve”

Semana Santa

This is a week long celebration here in Costa Rica, with parades, special dinners, and sacred assemblies. Elder Hofhiens and I were leaving the office late one night – around 8 pm – and were flagged down by neighbors. A neighborhood parade was taking place up the street in celebration of Jesus the Christ’s entranceContinue reading “Semana Santa”

CONFERENCE!

General Conference in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is held twice a year. People come from all over the world to share messages of faith and hope. Members take time to watch 5 (2hr) conference sessions over one weekend. WE honestly didn’t ask family members to share their conference experiences but theyContinue reading “CONFERENCE!”

Henrietta Boggs

A woman who took part in much of Costa Rican political history, Henrietta Boggs was a fiery, southern lady and a writer. She first came to Costa Rica in 1941 to visit an Aunt and Uncle, but she ended up captivating the young José Figueres – a man who went on to shape Costa RicanContinue reading “Henrietta Boggs”

English in Costa Rica?

“Today, English practice was really hard,” Elder Suarez says as he leans towards me. “Did you know there are 20 words that signify ‘to get’ in English. It’s crazy!” I laugh, feeling his pain. “English is hard work Elder, but this is the best time to learn English. You already have time set aside everyContinue reading “English in Costa Rica?”