May 19, 2014-Welcome to Paradise

Hello world! 

Say good bye to North Las Vegas! This week I was transferred to the Paradise zone! It stretches from the Strip all the way to the temple. I'm now serving in the Hacienda ward and it is AWESOME. I love it! It was really sad to leave all of my really great friends up in North, but I am confident that the Lord will look after them and keep the work progressing there. 

My companion is Elder Dunn, who was one of my first Zone Leaders when I started my mission. He's awesome. He loves sports, working hard, and sports! He looks like Jim Carey. True story. I'm learning a lot from him, since this is his last transfer and he's a seasoned veteran. Although in Vegas there's really only one season.... 

So this week was all about getting acquainted to the new area, the new ward, the new responsibilities, and the new companion. I know I'm going to love this ward. They seem really on top of things and very missionary minded. That's a huge help. The first night I was here, we ate dinner at the Second Counselor in the bishopric's home. We had a great time, until he asked me to speak in church that Sunday! Um, hey, I haven't been to church here yet! I don't know anyone! What an initiation, huh? So my first experience with the ward was speaking in front of everyone! I tried to make them laugh, and I think I succeeded. I told them that for all those hoping to serve a mission, I'm living proof that you don't necessarily have to grow a foot or two to do so! Haha it's fun. 

I'm really looking forward to serving here. There are miracles ahead! I've never felt the Spirit so strongly as I have this last week. Don't ever give up on answers to prayers. They're real! They come as you be as obedient as you can. You'll be happy! I love you all! May God bless you!
Elder Norton