Gathro Gang,
Mom, this is the first mention I've heard of any surgery. How're you doing? What's the surgery for? And yes, I already sent in my vote, although I don't know anything about the politics going on right now. I just found out yesterday about a huge hurricane that just blew through the Atlantic. Any updates?
I'm still covering the Spanish ward here in town. This transfer they also gave us two English wards and put us in an apartment 2 miles away so that now we're right in the middle of our area. The elders who lived there previously are now in my former apartment which happens to be their area. It was actually the most convenient arrangement. And since the move, we have played tennis every morning in our complex. It's way fun. My companion played tennis in high school and it's my goal to beat him this week. I almost had him this morning...so close :)
This week was terrific! Yeah we had some low points, but looking back and counting my blessings it was actually pretty good. For one, the weather has been gorgeous! This is the reason why so many people put up with the heat, because the winters are perfect. And the members here really are great. We had a trunk or treat activity this weekend and members kept telling us, "If you EVER don't have a dinner, you call us." And they're busy doing missionary work as well. The only challenge so far is being organized to stay on top of the work. I feel like Time and Satan are our biggest enemies. There's never enough time to do everything we want. But we're getting better. Oh, and I told the member at dinner last night that I would let you know, Mom, that they're making sure I'm eating my vegetables. We had a "health fair" this week as well where they gave us shots, so I'm invincible against the flu now.
Thursday night our Spanish ward went to the visitors' center in Mesa and we brought an investigator with us. He and his "wife" (we have to help them get married) are our leading Spanish investigators and are amazing! She had to work but he came with us and loved the Restoration video. He said he felt like it was a "recharge of batteries", aka The Spirit. He and his wife loved church yesterday as well and said that they are definitely coming back next week. Please pray for them!
Missionary work can be frustrating or overwhelming at times, but I know that it brings us sweet joy and happiness. It's a blessing to serve the Lord and help Him bring blessings to God's children. I love you all and pray that you're doing well!

Elder Joshua Gathro