Mission Miracles

Today at church it was Testimony meeting. Evan was doing pretty good for the most part, though Brian did have to take him out at the end. But that meant I got to listen to a few testimonies without distraction. One brother got up to share his testimony, and he and his wife are leaving for Singapore tomorrow. He talked about how serving a mission brings miracles into your life and the lives of your loved ones. Some people may call these things coincidences, but he chooses to call them miracles.

It got me thinking about my brother serving in Madagascar. He comes home in 25 days! When he left he gave all of the siblings "challenges": Me & Nat - Have babies. Phil - Get married. Dani - Be funny. (I guess that last one is subjective.)

We all laughed at these, knowing that he was just getting into missionary mode and we sent him off. I don't know if Brad knew or not, but Brian and I had been trying to start a family for almost a year. It was a long hard year. After my miscarriage I dreaded every month. So when he gave me that challenge, I laughed, but inside I was banking on some kind of blessing from his mission.

Luckily, it worked! I know everything happens in the Lord's time, but I also know that my baby was a blessing from my brother serving a mission. I have wanted to be a mom for a very long time. And even though I sometimes wonder if I'm doing a very good job, I'm still so happy for the opportunity.

So thank you Brad. When you get home I'll not only have a big hug for you, but my son will give you a high five, too.

Day One

Today was THE day.

The beginning of a huge adventure.

One of the hardest for those of us that have to stay behind.

One of the greatest for my brother.

Today we dropped my youngest brother Brad off at the MTC.

It was a long morning waiting for the time when we could take him.

But it was an even longer wait for Brad.

He's ready. So ready.

And we all couldn't be prouder of him.

Of course there were tears, but not from Brad.

He was all smiles.

He's ready. And excited to go.

We'll miss you Brad, but we couldn't be prouder!

Brad's Farewell

Today was my little brother's farewell. He did a great job talking about humility and gave a touching testimony. I'm so proud of him. After the meetings we went back to my parents house for some food, family and fun.

Nat, Brad, Melissa

Brad & Phil

Mom, Brad, Dad

Brad & Dani

Brad & Melissa

We also found out today that Brad's mission is the furthest mission from Salt Lake City before you start coming back around. He leaves in 2 1/2 weeks. I can't believe it!

Called to Serve

Brian and I rushed over to my parent's house tonight to see my little brother Brad open his call. We were all very excited. My sister Nat, who lives in St. George, joined us through Skype, so that's why Brad tends to talk down to the ground for some of the video.

Thanks to Brian for editing this video for me.

Good luck Brad!!! We love you!!!!