Our time saying our goodbyes to Reilly was difficult but at the same time so amazing. We are a VERY close family and we talk to each other by phone weekly, if not daily. Reilly is the only son and thank goodness for that. I don't want to ever have to say goodbye to a brother again. That being said, it was such an incredible experience watching Reilly gain his own personal testimony of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. It amazes me that a boy of 19 years of age can make such a sacrifice to serve the Lord. He is left behind his family, friends and his whole life to do something he completely believes in. I am not sure I have ever seen someone so prepared for a mission. The last two weeks Reilly was home he set his alarm to wake up at 6:30 am just like he would have to do on his mission. He read every piece of literature he could get his hands on. He read his BofM 6 times in the last year. He did everything he could do to be the best possible missionary he could be. His example strengthened our entire family. His service to the Lord will not only bring his family back home tremendous blessings, but more importantly it will prepare him and bless him throughout his life. We are so excited to have a brother/son who is righteous enough to go on a mission and worthy also. The people of Argentina are so beyond blessed to have him teach and serve them. Lives will be blessed through Reilly's service. I can't wait to hear of his experiences. Here are some pictures of our goodbyes. It was difficult but so rewarding as we knew he was ready, worthy and totally excited!
Reilly and his escort as they enter the MTC.
Reilly was so beyond ready to go and get started. He had at least 10 more minutes until they would have kicked us out, but he said his goodbyes, hugged as all, told us he loved us and said, "See you in two years!" and then smiled!
A very emotional goodbye to Dad. This was the hardest for him.
An equally emotional goodbye to Mom.
Brooklyn hugged him for a very long time. This is her rubbing her fingers up and down his hair. It was very sweet. Her and Reilly have a very special bond.
Reilly and his mom and 2nd Mom Jenny.
The whole family:)
Here he was talking to Wade on the cell phone saying goodbye. Wade couldn't be there because of finals so they said their goodbyes over the phone.
This was the night he was set apart by our Stake President, Pres. Challis. He looks emotional because he was.
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