For 18 years Theo and I have worked hard to ensure our children would one day become capable of taking care of themselves, that they would be able to go out into the world and be contributing members of society. Well, I guess that time has come. Drake is ready to take off the proverbial training wheels and go out into the missionary field. My mama's heart has been very tender this entire year as we have drawn closer to this moment. I am so proud of Drake and his decision to serve.
We drove up to Salt Lake and stayed at Grandma and Grandpa Ross' house on Tuesday night. Drake was supposed to go to the MTC around 1:00. We took our time getting ready in the morning and then we departed for Provo to drop off our son. Many people had advised us that when you arrive at the MTC, there is no dilly dallying. You drop them at the curb, hug, and say goodbye. That is it. Knowing this, we went across the street to the Provo temple first to walk around for a few minutes and to take a couple of pictures. The nervous excitement was palpable. I couldn't look around too much at the other families that were in tears with their missionaries. At about 15 minutes before the time he was supposed to arrive, Drake declared he was ready to go.
We drove across the street and into the continuously moving line of cars of families doing the same thing we were. I managed to hug him one last time and express my love before he hugged his dad and began wheeling away with his escort and his suitcases. It was all I could do to get into the car before the ugly tears started. Drake didn't look back, but walked with confidence and determination to begin his missionary service.
Don't get me wrong, I am so happy Drake is doing this! I am so proud! I wouldn't want him to be doing anything different. I will just miss him a bunch.
And so, it is time to let go.
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