"There are a few things they didn't tell me about this place when I settled in ...."

The title for this post comes from Josh and his quote of John Wayne, applying it to the MTC. "This place is awesome! There aren't words to describe it."

Here is Josh and District 44-D! He says that they have the largest district with 12 missionaries (only 10 are pictured here). On the front row are: Elders Roberts and Campbell, Sisters Burke, Wiseman, Larson and Langston. Back Row: Elder Cavaness, Knaras (Josh's companion), Olson, and Josh (yes, that looks like a faux-hawk he's wearing).

Josh reports that he now prays in Spanish all the time, and it appears that he is improving all the time, but we wonder if those around him are learning enough as one said the one word to describe Josh is "Guapo" .... Josh says learning Spanish is "tough" but it is coming along. His companion (Elder Knaras) took three years of Spanish in High School, so he his helping Josh. He does bear his testimony in Spanish to us as well.

Josh does ask for all of us to keep his companion (Elder Knaras ... the District Leader) in our prayers. Apparently Josh is hoping to see a conversion during his time at the MTC ... Elder Knaras is (gasp!) a Utah fan! Josh is trying to persuade him to leave the dark side for the light.

To help you get a feel of how Josh has changed, let me share this one part of Josh's letter (this part directed to Kiah): Study hard in school and if you ever are at a loss for another incredible book to read you should 'try' and take on Jesus the Christ. It's awsome!"

He has had some great spiritual experiences and is growing so much. He is truly a man of God.

Josh reports that he has lost 6 pounds while at the MTC. While he loves the food, he is running everyday ... now running about 3 miles a day during gym time. He has earned the nickname "Quicksilver!"

He also complains that he doesn't get a nap most days and only is sleeping 8 hours a day (most of the rest of us are jealous!).

Elder Campbell (see the picture above) has a girlfriend who works at the MTC cafeteria ... so he sees her everyday! I wouldn't believe it either if Josh hadn't told me about it.

I could add more (this was a letter worth waiting for!), but will end in the interests of space. All in all, he's doing great, and we're walking on clouds with excitement for him!