Saying good-bye!

Tuesday night June 23 Brandon was set apart as a full-time missionary by President Whimpey. Many friends and family came to share in the advent. Hugs were given, tears were shed and pictures taken. Afterwards we went as a family one last time to Olive Garden.  Brandon had not yet begun to pack but at least had everything in order.  Many friends hung about the house until 1a.m., some stayed the night, and all returned and many more for french toast breakfast at 4:30 a.m. made by good friend Nikki!

 We arrived at the airport 5:45 a.m. and his luggage weighed under 50lbs each! We then waited by the security entry point as did many other missionary families, and also the family of his good friend Jack who departs the same day as Brandon. Little cousin (2yr old) Jaxon entertained us all with his abundance of energy! The moment arrives to say good-bye!  Again many hugs, lots of tears, more hugs and lots of pictures!

We arrived home with one less family member. Brandon's car sits on the street and not in the driveway.  Mom can not get herself to drive it, so she asked Jacob (almost 15) to pull it in.  He was so excited and Mom stood by door as wingman (fearing he would hit the gas pedal instead of brakes and drive thru the garage.) Great job Jacob! And Brandon arrived in SLC by 10:30am, picked up by his Uncle, Aunt and Cousin.  They treated them to Brick Oven Pizza (missionaries eat free :) They dropped them off at the Provo MTC later that afternoon!

My home is with two less sons, one serving in Ghana, West Africa and the other in Ohio, USA.  I've dreamed of sending my sons on missions before they were born.  I taught them to pray, to serve and to love.  We have found much happiness in our home and my sons desire to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ to others so they may have the same joy as we do. I trust the Lord to watch over them as they are in his service.  I also trust that we here at home will find our needs met and comfort as they are gone.

 

 Brother's Hug

Father's Hug

Sister Hug

 Almost like brothers

Almost like siblings

Our little family