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.
