The MTC

Today was the day that we sent out Allyson off on her mission.  It's one of those bittersweet events.

As a good friend said, and I'm paraphrasing, "You teach your kids to do the right things and to make the correct choices, but then when they do (like going on a mission) you miss them incredibly."

We started the day off at home, making sure that she had all that she needed and she was packed well. Cathryn (my daughter-in-law) was such a great help earlier in the week. She helped Ally to her organize her stuff and get it packed. I don't think we could have got all of her stuff in her suitcases without her help.

Once we were sure she had everything, I took a couple of pictures of her in our back yard.

Then it was time to get in the car and make the 38 mile journey to the MTC.  We met Sarah, Cathryn, Julia and Spencer at the Golden Corral in Orem for a so-so lunch.  Then we headed to the MTC and took some pictures of her with the family.

Sarah, mom, Katie, Allyson, dad

Mom and dad with Allyson

Sarah and Katie

Cathryn, Julia, and Spencer

With her little niece Julia.

Time for goodbye hugs starting with Spencer,

Cathryn,

Sarah,

Katie,

all of the sisters,

Mom,

...and finally dad.

Then she's gone...

...without a look back.

We're proud of our Allyson. Coming home I was feeling melancholy.  Happy, yet feeling a loss. It's hard saying goodbye to a daughter for 18 months. I'll miss her tremendously. I love her immensely. She's a great daughter. We're praying for her to do well and to be safe. She's going to be a great missionary!!