MTC Day

I'm not going to lie, this was the hardest day in my life.  It's heartbreaking to hug your son and know that you won't see him for two years.

 

Here is Brandon's last meal request... Olive Garden.  He was so nervous that he only ate 5 noodles from his favorite Alfredo dish.  Okay, maybe a few more, but not many.

 

While Brandon is in the MTC, he's going to do family names at the temple.

Brooke will miss her best friend.

 

My three kids.  They will be all grown up in two years.  I wonder where the girls will measure on Brandon when he returns?

Dad holding onto our precious cargo.

 

My favorite picture of the day.

He's going to be a great missionary.  Bolivia, please take good care of him.

Mom trying to hold it together.  Not doing so good.

Since they took down our favorite wall, here's the entrance to the MTC.

This picture makes my heart happy.  Amazingly enough, the Host Elder who opened Brandon's door at the curb dropoff was someone he knew from high school.  As soon as he opened Brandon's door, he exclaimed, "Hestedt!" and they gave each other a big hug.  I felt comforted to know that Brandon instantly had someone there with a connection.  You can see a little relief on his face.  I know it was a blessing from Heavenly Father for BOTH of us.

The Host Elder listing all the missionaries that are currently in the MTC that they both know from school.  (Still waiting to hear how Brandon knows him)

After we were done giving our hugs, this sweet lady came up to Brandon and said, "Elder, we'd better get you out of here while you're still happy and smiling."