It is hard to believe we are on the eve of the beginning of our mission. Tomorrow we check into the Provo Missionary Training Center (MTC) and can hardly wait! We are ready. Our suitcases are packed (sort of) and everything is in order and in good hands to leave behind for the next 12 months. I say we are "sort of" packed because our warmer clothes are in suitcases to take to the MTC, and our Hawaii clothes are in a box. We'll switch them out in 2 weeks when we actually leave for Hawaii.

We've had an amazing weekend with most of our beloved family - no tears, just lots of love and well wishes going around. Last night 6 of our 7 children and spouses met at Macaroni Grill for dinner. How wonderful to relax and enjoy each other's company.

Today, being Fast Sunday, was Molly's blessing day - just one more reason to get together. The blessing by her father, Eric, was beautiful and then we all gathered at Lori and Eric's house for lunch.

At 3:30 we had an appointment with President Blair Kent to set us apart as official missionaries for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Devon and I were given beautiful blessings by President Kent, and he gave all of us good counsel about missions and supporting one another. It was a beautiful meeting. I think even the children could feel how special the moment was.

And of course we had to take photos! Devon's sister, Gwen, and our friend, Carol, left before we thought to get their photo. Not able to be there were Daryn and Stephen's families.

David and Suzie's family

Brad and Jenna's family

Lori and Eric's family

Marianne and Tony's family

Emily

I am left at the end of this wonderful weekend to ponder the many blessings in my life. First is our wonderful family. Their unconditional love and support is such a treasure in our lives. It's wonderful to have family - even better that we really like each other! Being able to go on this mission is as much a miracle as a blessing. We are so grateful I am well enough to take on this adventure. I plan to do everything I can to stay healthy. We are grateful for our testimonies of the reality of our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. We are excited to be part of an effort to spread the message of their unconditional love for each of us.

So hooray for new beginnings and new adventures!