IT"S OFFICIAL!!!  He's in the MTC!

Jake was set apart as a missionary last night at our home by our Stake President, Pres. Nielson.  It was a very tender time and Robert, Bob and Alan were all in the circle with Pres. Nielson.  We talked about our missions and how we felt and the Spirit in our home was good.

Today, we dropped him off at the MTC at 1:00.  Bob jumped in our car before we entered the gate and we were guided to a spot at the curb to drop him off.  It really wasn't as bad as we had heard.  There missionaries everywhere, all helping the new guys get their luggage and guide them to where they needed to go.  It was wonderful.  We had a chance to hug and to say a couple of "I love you's" and then he was on his way.  He was a little scared, but he was ready.  I love this picture of him.  It makes my heart feel good.

I really don't know how I feel right now.  I have a mixture of sadness because I'm going to miss the heck out of him, but most of all I feel peace.  I know he's in the right place for him and for all of us, for that matter.  He is leaving our home for two years to serve the Lord.  What more could you want for your son?
I mentioned last night that I feel that it's fitting that he leaves during the Christmas season.  He and I both love Christmas, but for me, it's my only son and I feel kind of like I'm giving him to the Lord. This is going to be one of my favorite Christmas' because having a son serve a mission puts things in to perspective.  I'm reminded what the true meaning of Christmas really is.  
Jake is a pure and tender young man whom I know will return to us having learned the things that will turn him into a man.  He is prepared mentally and physically and emotionally.  He is ready.  The rest of us maybe not so much!
I know Jessi has had a really tough time today, Kayci wants to have free access to the Xbox.  (No, I think she is going to miss him in her own little way!)  Regardless, Jake knows that he is loved, and that all of us are thinking of him and praying for him and we are excited for the countdown to December of 2012!
Until then, I know that he is in God's hands and that is a wonderful place to be.

... and off he goes... Elder Monster Man, I mean, Elder Lynam!

December 13, 2010

What an amazing weekend this has been! Saturday, the 11th, Jessi and Alan got their letter so it's official... we can set a date now! That night was one of the best days of my life. Jessi took out her own endowments and Jake was able to be there. I'll never forget being there with my children... all dressed in white. What a wonderful day! My family was able to be there and so was Bob's along with Alan's sisters and Mom and Grandma Thomas. It was perfect.

The next day was Jake's farewell. He did a great job on his talk. I had no idea what he was speaking on, and I'll be honest, I was a bit nervous. He spoke on overcoming trials, and I was so proud of him. The most wonderful thing about the weekend was how many people came to support him. Besides amazing family who traveled a really long way to be here (Race and Shelly got stuck in a snow storm and had to turn back), friends that have been a part of Jake's life for years came to support him. Robert's family is always so good to be there for my kids; Carolee Tate, Steve and Tara Sansom, his trek Ma and Pa; his young men's leaders, his friends from Layton, and on and on. Jake remarked on how "awesome" it was to have everyone right there, under the same roof. I couldn't have agreed more.




After Sacrament meeting, we had a luncheon at the house. It was packed! There was really, standing room only. I love it like that! It was so fun to visit with everyone! It did catch me a little off guard, though, to have that many people all at the same time. Luckily Sheri took over and got things out and started doing all the things that needed to be done. Thank heaven for family!

Today we spent ironing white shirts... ALOT! Jake would iron one and give it to me to pass the "Mom test"! I'd either fold it and put it in his luggage or give it back to try another attempt. We watched "The Best Two Years" and talked about missionary work... and packed. We packed socks into every corner of luggage and books to make the weight even out. We talked about passports and medication and journal writing and penmanship and thank you notes and any other bit of "mom advice" I may have forgotten in the last 19 years. We bought gym shoes and he paid off his truck, "Mater". and then we packed some more... and I reminded him to brush his teeth every night and morning... and to write home once a week. We found camera chargers and P day clothes (Oh dear...) and then patched the jeans that he "really" likes. We talked about the Book of Mormon and testimonies and the importance of working hard, even if your companion doesn't want to. We talked about faith and the importance of the Spirit in your life... and Q tips. We practiced hanging up nice slacks and laundry... and giving your shoes a chance to dry out. We packed flip flops to wear in the shower at the MTC and a shaving kit, with 3 whole razors! (That'll last him awhile!) We talked about weighing your luggage and mailing stuff home. We made sure all of his clothes are marked with "RJL" and we hugged each other for no reason.

It was a really good day.

December 1, 2010:  THE "TIE ON PARTY" at Young Mens!

Jake had his "tie on party" tonight.  That's where everyone gives him a tie and, hence the name, ties it on him!  He had a great time and he has some really great friends and leaders!  I don't think he'll be bringing all the ties he got out in the field... a few were kind of scarey!  It was a great going away party... and I'm sure we'll find good use for the ties left behind!