Last Big Push For Final Preparations

      With this past week being our final full-week at home, we made one last big push to finish preparing ourselves and our home for our mission departure. In doing that, we both had a pretty busy week, which also included many wonderful blessings.

     On Monday, June 27th at 5:00 pm, we were invited to a special fireside given by the Utah Provo mission president honoring the Prophet Joseph Smith. That night was the 178th year anniversary of the prophet's martyrdom. We watch a video of Elder Pearson giving a talk all about Joseph Smith, including many of his accomplishments, his trails, his blessing and facts of his martyrdom. It was the most spiritually and emotional lecture that I have ever heard on Joseph! I gained more insights and a much greater appreciation for the Prophet Joseph. What an amazing man, so faithful and so focused on his divine appointment to aid in the restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ in the latter days.

Most of the week, I cleaned my whole house and completed several missionary preparation assignments, such as watching many safety videos and packing my belongings. I also was able to spend good quality time with many family members, including my oldest daughter's family visiting from the west coast. I love my family so very, very much. They all are truly my greatest joy and comfort. I am a very blessed mother indeed! As I get closer and closer every day to leave for our mission, I have noticed some very deep feelings that I have been experiencing.

     Surrounding myself with the most precious people in my life lately has caused a heaviness in my heart. I have already had several times of having to hold back tears or wanting to stay just a little longer. I woke up one morning this week feeling quite sad and was trying to comfort myself without any luck. I found an article in the church news about a family that had made a marvelous donation to the church of Hyrum Smith's handwritten copy of Doctrine and Covenants Section 11, which is a well-known section concerning missionary service. 

     I was thrilled to read the article about the donation, which also included eleven photos of the event. I decided to look at only the first few pictures, but then felt impressed to look at them all. It was the last photo of that article that totally comforted my aching heart and re-focused my mindset to this next most important mission and adventure. The last photo showed a close-up of Hyrum's beautiful handwriting and the clearly stated words, "that you are called to preach". Wow, talk about instant comfort and new joy to go and serve. 

I was also able to celebrate America's birthday and remember the many freedoms that are mine. I love America! I was able to share time with five of my children and many of my grandchildren. It was such a wonderful blessing for me to be here in Provo, UT and enjoy a very happy and meaningful July 4th before we leave. My next blog will be coming straight from Ireland. 

My family (5 of my children and their families) at a family reunion

A farewell lunch with our two youngest daughters

Ballon in early mornings light at Provo's July 4th celebration