We all woke up around 5:30am this morning... Todd and Megan even spent the night with us because we'd put Luke down here last night to play cards together. We stayed up later than we should've because nobody wanted the night to end, so when it really came time to go to bed, Megan and Todd decided to just stay so that they didn't have to move Luke. Dad made smoothies for everyone and we all piled into the Suburban! (Yes, we can still do that with all 8 of us!) Everyone was in a somber mood, but we managed to keep things light on the way to the airport. Check in went so smoothly-- we just walked right up to the desk! The lady there happened to be a member of the church and was so friendly and sweet as she asked where Katelyn was going. She was super excited when we told her because a good friend of hers just got called to the same mission! (A Sister Wright.) This was a sweet little experience and helped us to feel more at ease... Bill dropped us off, parked and met up with us at Security so we could check in just in case there were lines-- which there weren't. We lingered at Security for a long time! And took a lot of pictures! (There were more of us to take them with this time around!) We all got emotional as we said our goodbyes and finally got the courage to let her go. There was another family doing the same thing as they said their goodbyes to their elder. We watched as Katelyn walked off and noticed a sweet, older couple stop and talk to her as she joined the line. We watched as Katelyn started to smile and talk with them the whole way through security! I don't know, but they must've been members of the church-- pretty good chance on a flight to Salt Lake City!! She waved goodbye to us and just like that, she was gone and we turned around and walked the other direction... this is always THE HARDEST thing for me to do!! I know I will see her as we video chat each week, but it's just the finality of not being able to be WITH her!! I know she will be watched over today. I've been praying that she will feel the peace that passeth all understanding! (Me too!) and that she will feel comforted in this new beginning that always causes so many emotions! I know she is really going to do some amazing things-- even if it's only to strengthen her foundation and broaden her testimony of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ-- but I know it will be so much more than this. She will touch so many lives! What important business she gets to do for the next 18 months-- and it will fly by! This has been harder for me this time, but each time I get teary, I feel a peaceful feeling come over me and I know that it's going to be ok despite my reservations and sadness. Katelyn, we all love you so much and know that this is going to be such an amazing experience for you! On the way home, Brooke was influential in talking everyone into going to Krispy Kreme donuts... none for me though... too much sugar for my mood! When we got home, Todd and Megan went home, McKenzie hurried off to work, Brooke stuck around for a couple of hours before she had to go to work, and Bill headed out as well-- leaving me alone in a very quiet home. I am trying to keep busy! I am just grateful for the faith that Katelyn has exercised in going on her mission. I know it was a hard thing for her to do, even though she has wanted to go since she was a little girl. I admire her courage and strength in doing hard things and turning to the Lord for help.
Update: We got the below text via Messenger that Katelyn arrived safely!! Yay!! She's a missionary of few words (to her family at least) today!!
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