We Have Arrived at the MTC!

I think the hardest is behind us...saying goodbye to our sons, daughters, grandchildren, family and friends. We said our goodbyes to Jack, Ty, Havyn and Krew on Sunday. I didn't know how I was going to make it easy on Havyn since earlier she had pronounced "I will cry and cry when Granma and Granpa go to Ghana". It so happened she was enjoying an ice cream cone as she was being buckled into her car seat and I was saying my goodbyes. It's amazing how ice cream seems to make everything OK. She simply kissed me goodbye and took a big bite and life remained good! Krew of course didn't have a clue so that one was much harder for me. He will change so much in 2 years. Mike and Brian stopped by on their way to work Monday morning and we were able to say our goodbyes with simple hugs and a few tears (on my part). I love them both so much.

On our way to Provo we stopped to say goodbye to my wonderful parents. It was hard for me to think I just might not see them again but I know if my mother understood where I was going she would be so very proud and supportive. She always taught me to love and serve the Lord and it will be a joyous reunion when we see them again weather it will be in this life or the next.

James, Marci, and Bowen drove us to the MTC in Provo on Monday. Saying goodbye to them was also extremely difficult. Bowen will tell anyone when asked, that "Ga-ma" and "Pa-Pa" are going to "Ga-na". He will than get a quizzical look on his face and ask "Why?". His sweet Mom simply explains, "because they love Jesus" and that seems to make perfect since to his 2 year-old mind. We said our tearful goodbyes and jumped right into the job of training as full time missionaries.

This experience has been incredible and has kept us very busy! We met for training every day with 16 other couples and single sisters who are preparing to travel to London, Kenya, Mexico City, Italy, Australia, Ethiopia, Arizona Indian Reservations, Manhattan and Boston to just name a few. As we have gotten to know the other couples I realized we have all left beloved family and yes, precious grandchildren to serve the Lord all over the world. There is no moping or looking back. We are all excited and grateful for this amazing opportunity to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with those who are searching for the truth! Dave and I have never felt closer as companions and the spirit has been bearing witness everyday to the truthfulness of the gospel! I know I will always consider our experience at the MTC sacred!