Mr. C Two Years

As I look through these pictures.  I can't believe that it has been almost a week now since we said goodbye.  I feel like I was just posting the photos of this boy saying goodbye to him for two years!

On Wednesday morning of last week, Mr. C was getting in a last few card games with his baby brother, Mr. J while I was running around like a basket case trying to take care of last minute things.

And then, it was time.  Time to load up the luggage that my son would live out of for the next two years as he serves a two year mission for our church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

He submitted his papers several months ago to the leaders of our church, saying he was willing and wanting to serve and then we waited to hear where he would go.  The call came, he opened it, and found out he will be serving in the Chesapeake, Virginia USA mission.

P.S.  Thank goodness for stronger older brothers who can help you carry your big heavy suitcases to the truck!  I love Mr. C's stride in this photo.  He's excited, he's moving forward, he's taking a big step.

Last desire before you leave??  Brick Oven Pizza.  Gotta have some good pizza before one heads off into the unknown.

Is it possible we are standing here taking these photos again??  Why yes, it is because Mr. T isn't in any of these photos.  He's still in the Philippines where he is serving his two year mission!

And so it begins.  The final hugs goodbye.

And then, he's off.  He has his luggage and off he goes!  A few times looking back at us to wave with a huge grin on his face.

One last time looking back.  As the rest of us fall apart as we pile back into the truck and drive away.
I am so proud of my natives.  If I didn't truly know and believe in what they are doing for two years, being representatives of Jesus Christ serving and caring for others, there is no way I'd be able to let them go like this.

But I do.  And as much as it hurts having them gone, it's so worth it, knowing the joy they are bringing to other people all over the world.