Skyler leaves for the MTC

The Lord knows us all! He knew to only send me one son, because there is no way I could do this again!! Today was the day we took Skyler to the airport and put him on a flight to Utah where his Cousin, Cole Bell, picked him up and delivered him to his Aunt Debbie who took him to the MTC in Provo. I promised Skyler that I wouldn't cry until he was gone, and I kept my word, but let me just tell you, it was sooooo hard! He was so brave and looked so handsome and grown up. Of course, the Coopers (Janet, Matthew, Sarah and Kristen) got up at that awful hour and were at the airport to say goodbye. That was so nice! When we got home from the airport, I cried myself to sleep, then got a bag packed and drove 11 hrs to my sister, Teresa's, home in So. California. Being home where I knew he wasn't was just too hard! I feel like a third of me is missing and it hurts. Kudos to all you missionary moms who've done this before. What a hard thing this is! But, we're so proud of Skyler and are excited for him! Here are the pictures.

Skyler's setting apart

On Tuesday, June 23rd, Skyler was set apart as a full time missionary by our Stake President Clare F Earl. It was an incredible experience to listen to the blessings and promises that were pronounced and promised not only to him, but to us, his family, also! Juliann and Michael came as well as the Christensen family, Skyler's second family. Mallory, Michael and the twins were in Las Vegas, but they were there in spirit. Afterward, we went to Swensens Ice Cream parlor for a yummy treat.

We are so proud of you son! You are an amazing young man and that will reflect in your life as a missionary.

Skyler's Reporting Out

Skyler speaks in Galena Ward on Sunday June 14th at 11 a.m. He is speaking again at University 1st Ward on June 21st at 1 p.m. We are leaving for Utah on Monday the 22nd and he reports to the MTC that Wednesday. We recently received a letter from the MTC that due to the swine flu outbreak at the MTC, we will have to say our goodbyes as the luggage is being unloaded at the curb. We are no longer able to enter with him and go to the orientation.

5 Week Countdown

So Skyler has 5 weeks left until he reports to the MTC. Crunch time has officially started. He took a trip to Utah last week and picked up his mission suits, he's got his luggage, he's got white shirts and ties. Basically he's ready to go. The realization has finally hit him and he's starting to get nervous but we know that the Lord will provide all things and he knows that if he has faith, he'll be just fine.
He enjoys going to the temple, so if anyone wants to go before he leaves, just let us know and he'd love to do a session with you.

"And whoso receiveth you, there I will be also, for I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up." Doctrine and Covenants 84:88, Skyler's new favorite scripture. He is so excited to be able to serve a mission for the Lord and to share his gospel. We know he'll do great and have a wonderful time.

First Temple Trip

Skyler went through the temple for the first time on Thursday! He was so excited and had an amazing time! He was surrounded by his family and people he loves and can't wait to go back! He's going to Utah on Tuesday and is already planning to do 2 sessions while he's there!

Thank you to Bishop and Sister McCombs, Gordon and Debora Christensen and Brother and Sister Cooper for going through the temple with Skyler.

Skyler's mission acceptance letter is in the mail! (after he drops by wal mart & picks up a shake from Carls Jr.)