Facelift

Life is all about change,
I feel like my life has been full of changes this year.
All of them good, but change none the less.
I am a creature of habit by nature so change is always a little stressful
and emotional.

That being said,
I felt like it was time my blog underwent a change as well.
~sigh~
It was a process that took way more time than I wanted...
I think I like it!

Happy Easter weekend!!

The Best Two Years

Today we dropped Elder Paxman off at the Mission Training Center in Provo.

It was a good day.

Yesterday we spent quality family time and went out to dinner at Ruby River, Ben's choice.

We then went to the Stake President's office to see Benjamin set apart as a full time missionary.

It was a wonderful experience for all of us.

He was given a really powerful blessing.

I didn't know what to expect as this is our first missionary, but I really enjoyed our time there.  The Stake President really took time to visit, offer good advice and share insight for Benjamin.

This photo is of my kids before dinner.

 Here we all are after the setting apart.

 We then came home and a really thoughtful friend Julie Nokes brought us homemade dessert.

Chocolate Mint Brownies with Vanilla Ice Cream and Chocolate Covered Strawberries.

It was such a nice thing for her to do and we loved it!

This morning we went to Kneaders for bottomless French Toast.  Delicious!

Then home to finish packing.  I really wanted the packing done a few days ago.  Linc insisted that we just put it all on Bailee's bed and pack on Wednesday morning.  I couldn't figure out his thinking.  But, this morning it all made perfect sense.  Elder Paxman didn't have to report to the MTC until 1:45.  Dad's thinking was that packing this morning would keep us all busy and keep our minds occupied.  It worked!  We really just enjoyed each other, with no time to sit, think, and worry.

Elder Paxman before leaving home.

 Elder Paxman's nerves definitely started increasing the closer we got to Provo.  So did mine for that matter.   Upon arriving we saw the neatest sight.  Hundreds of missionaries lining the curb of the MTC waiting to greet the new incoming missionaries.  To get the full story see Elder Paxman's mission blog.

 We shared some quick hugs and some "I Love Yous" and that was it.

 Then he turned and walked away without looking back.

It has been an emotional day.

I am so glad he has chosen to serve the lord in this way.

I know his life will be blessed as he blesses the lives of those he serves.

The Lord is hastening his work and Elder Paxman gets to be a part of it.