Mothers Day Highlight

Mother's Day Highlight: The phone call from a Missionary Son!

A Dream Come True--Speaking with ALL of my children in one day!

For those who know me, Mother's Day is one of the most difficult days of the year for me. It is actually the entire week of Mother's Day that is difficult, however, as the mother of Missionaries away from home over the past 7 years, Mother's Day has provided a welcome focus and perspective--the call home! I enjoyed talking with Andrew, hearing his voice, and feeling his strength. His friends, Ed, Chris, and Paul came over and were able to talk to him. Ed and Chris had to go sit on Andrew's bed as they spoke! We were able to add Curt, Jeffrey, Grandpa, Grandma, Brent, and we tried, Jenni to the phone calls. (Jenni and Robert got a 10 minute voice mail as we could not hang up the connection) Alison even joined the mix!

May 31, Provo, UT Missionary Training Center Arrival

Andrew spent 3 weeks in Provo and then went to the Missionary Training Center in Lima, Peru for

6 more weeks of training prior to his arrival in the Peru, Trujillo Mission

If a picture speaks a thousand words, let me say, this is a photo of the most Painful Joy a mother can experience. Being so proud of the choices your son is making as you are saying good-bye for 2 years. This what the moment Andrew receved his Missionary Badge and was instructed where to place his luggage before he met us for the final farewell.
Outside the Missionary Training Center... Smiles before the flood of tears.
Andrew ready to go.
Peru-Trujillo Mission here I come.
Just as I was so proud of Andrew on this day, I continue to be proud of him and the choices he is making. The little boy is growing up and finding out for himself who he is and what he believes.
For The Record:
Andrew may be the third son I have sent out as a Missionary--yet it has not become one inch easier to see them go!