Ethan's farewell

August 30th was Ethan's farewell.  He did a great job with his talk.  I had been pretty good at holding my emotions in during this time preparing for his departure to Gilbert.  However, at church I had the meltdown.  I just remember looking at him sitting on the stand at the beginning of the Sacrament and then the emotions just came to the surface.  It took me forever to gain my composure.  The realization set in that I wouldn't see him for a couple years.  True, I want my son to go on a mission and I've taught him this throughout his life.  But, when it comes to the moment of it actually happening, my heart just broke.  I know this was the best choice Ethan could have made.

 

 

 

 

Jake turns 13

This was Jake's 13th birthday.  I know he went to Lagoon during the day while I was off doing the Utah Half Triathlon.  I missed going with the family.  I, unfortunately, had signed up months ago for that race.  All the Lagoon fun is with Nichole's blog.  But, I loved this picture of these 3 cute kids.  Just hanging out together and making dinner and a cake.  Ethan spent half the day with Jake.  Brad was there the whole time with Jake

 

Ethan goes to the Temple for the first time

On Tuesday, August 18th, Ethan went to the Timpanogos Temple.  This was his first time going into the main part of the temple other than going there to do baptisms for the dead.  I got to go through and be an "escort" for him.  We went to the 12:30 session, so we were done about 3:00 where Lexi was waiting for Ethan afterwards.  Sitting through the session with Ethan, knowing the importance and significance of temple work, really was a neat feeling.  The gospel of Jesus Christ allows us to live together forever as a family.  If we keep the commandments, we don't have to spend eternity alone.  We can have those closest and dearest to us by our side.  Isn't that cool.  Today was a great step toward realizing that optimal goal.  It felt good to be there with my son of whom I have hopefully had a good influence over these last 19 years.  It was wonderful having my dad there as well who escorted me through the temple the first time I went.  I got my endowments out in the Washington, DC Temple.  I remember Donald being there and my parents.  Ethan definitely looks happy in the pictures, of course, maybe it was the sun shining brightly into our eyes at the hottest and brightest time of the day.  Even with the sunshine, I just felt a warm and happy glow coming from Ethan.  It was neat to see him try and wear the temple robes and clothing for the first time.  And then, of course, to stand in the Celestial Room with him, Nichole and my parents.  It was a sweet feeling.  I'm so glad I was able to be a part of this special day for Ethan.  He is a great son!