1.14.2011

48 hours ago...

my parents boarded a plane
and flew to a little patch of heaven
where the sky's are sunny and the temperature is in the mid 80's.

And they will call this place home for the next two years.

One minute they were here and the next minute they're not.
Gone.
Thousands of miles away.
It's just crazy how that can happen.

My parents have been called to be presidents of the Dominican Republic MTC.
There's no doubt in my mind that's where they're supposed to be.
(I have a little story about that, perhaps I'll share it with you sometime.)

My parents are good people. Good being an understatement.
They're actually great people.
The kind of people that you'd be fortunate to have in your life.

We spent the past two weeks trying to fit in two years worth of time together
and had several days of good bye.

Goodbye #1:



Goodbye #2:

I can't remember what story my Dad's telling, but whatever it is it looks like a good one.




Goodbye #3: the Provo, UT MTC

All of my brothers and sisters and their kids (8 and older) met my parents at the MTC
to have a special meeting with Elder Holland and Elder Snow.

It was amazing and beautiful.
Love was emanating from Elder Holland. Just emanating.
He was gracious and gentle and caring.
Absoluely the most genuine man I have ever met.

Afterwards we went in a room just to chat and say goodbye.
And my Dad?
Well, he's front and center taking advantage of every last minute to teach.
He's teaching. Always teaching.
Which is good,
because I'm learning. Always learning.


Me and all my siblings


Officially President & Sister


So am I sad that they're gone?
Well, I don't know if sad is quite the right word.
I'll miss them, that's for sure.
But really, they're only a phone call or a skype chat away.
(technology amazes me)

As for my parents?...


Well, I'm pretty sure they'll survive.


I talked to my Mom on the phone yesterday and she said she could see the beach
just right outside her window...
tough life.

And you better believe there is a vacation planning in the works to visit
the blue waters and white sands of the Dominican Republic.


. . . . .

11 comments:

Anonymous said...

Best wishes to your parents! I'm sure they will have lots of fun.

PS. You look a LOT like your Mom!

{Amanda G} said...

I'm totally a fan of your blog and have never commented, but this post compelled me to let you know this made me smile! What an amazing blessing for your whole family! It will be hard not having them, but you will be blessed so much by their service!

And score, you got to see Elder Holland! He's my make-believe dad!

What a cool experience!

amyorr said...

Your parents ARE very sweet people. That is awesome! Too bad you will have to go visit them in an ugly, cold place. Gessh.....the things we do for family.

Tisha and Mark said...

Mark and I are looking for a little getaway before baby #dos...would you guys be down in March??? I am serious! :) That is awesome. I can't wait to serve a mission some day!

The Perry family said...

That's so awesome!! Your parents are gerat people! And that's so cool you got to meet Elder Holland!

Tiffany said...

1. Your parents are adorable.
2. I love JRH.
3. You have some amazing vacations in your future.
4. I'm sorry, I know it still stings.

Angie said...

Um. Yeah for your cute Mom and Dad. I have loved hearing stories as we have talked about their lives. When I grow up I want to be like your Mom. You tell her I said that. I loved your pictures. I want to print them and put them on my mantle. I just might. They represent love, joy in the gospel, sacrifice, more love, the Spirit of missionary work, and just pure goodness. They made me teary... what a surprise. So happy for your parents. I would love their address... I'm serious. Love you and your goodness. I know it won't be easy, but oh so worth the sacrifice. When are we going to visit? P.S. Elder Holland oozes loves and there is nothing like being in his presece. Thanks for the post. Made my day.
xoxoxo

Merilee said...

Your parents really are amazing people. Good luck to them!! I'm quite jealous of where they are right now too.

Chell said...

How awesome for them. So can I tell you how much I hate that work has me blocked from blogger. I can read through my Google reader but when I go to post comments access is denied. So tonight I am playing catch up... I love reading your blog its always good for a smile!!

Jacobson Five said...

Elder Snow was my mission president on temple square.
I just found your blog, my mom recommended I read a particular entry you wrote and I couldn't help but keep reading. It was fun to see a picture of my mission president.
I'm sure your parents will have a wonderful experience.

Heidi said...

You look fantastic in these photos. Baby you are looookin GOOOOOd! keep up the good work