Dear Elder Rowley: September 2014

The Efficiency of the MTC

We are an efficient church.

The drop off at the MTC is an efficient process. Why prolong the agony, right?

You drive in, a kind volunteer looks in your vehicle to see if you are dropping off an elder and a sister and then directs you one way or another.

A volunteer on a bright orange parking vest directs you to the curb where a "host" missionary is waiting to help you unload your belongings.

Hugs are exchanged, photos are taken, tears are shed...That's all folks!

He's in the Lord's Hands now.

The Last Days...

We had three days together as a family before Elder Rowley entered the MTC on Wednesday, September 10, 2014. We toured Welfare Square, attended the Salt Lake Temple, visited the Temple grounds, went to the family history library. It was a glorious time!

Wednesday morning Jim gave Jordan a father's blessing and then Jordan gave each family member a blessing. It was probably one of the most sacred and tender moments we have had together as a family. The sweet spirit that wrapped around me as I listened to our son express his love, concern, devotion and the love of our Heavenly Father for each individual in our family was truly beyond words.

Our final meal was a the In-n-Out Burger just a few miles from the MTC. You can never go wrong with a double double and french fries animal style.

Officially a Missionary

On Sunday (September 7) Jordan was made an official missionary of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at our Stake Center. He was set apart by our Stake President Reid Stephan. Standing in were, his dad, Jim Rowley, grandpa, Ralph Rowley, President Shawn Adams, & Jeff Sessions. In attendance were Bishop Jepson (who was so sweetly holding his daughter Charly during the setting apart), Grandma Rowley, David Carter, Kaiser Carter, Rachele Grundhauser, The Adams Family, Ginger, Bryce, Brady, Aubree, & Madi and of course, our family, Preston, Brenden, Ella & I. It was a special blessing and he was glowing!

Farewell Party - Open House

The Friday (September 5) before we left to go to Utah we had an open house. It was so fun to have so many wonderful friends and family come and show their support for him. I told Jordan that I wanted a "no utensils" required meal, so that it was easy to serve and easy to clean up. That meant Blimpie sandwiches, chips & cookies. I didn't keep track of how many people were there, but it was a lot! It was a beautiful evening outside and there was room for the kids to run and play. Thanks to all for making wonderful memories with our family!