MTC Send Off......

(You can follow Josh's mission experiences at elderjoshmckenna.blogspot.com)

The day finally came.....I couldn't actually even wrap my head around saying goodbye to my first born for two whole years.  What does that even feel like?   That is just too overwhelming to think about or even know how to react to all of that.   This I do know, it came at me like a freight train and even though it was one of the hardest things I've had to do, I also knew it was one of the things I have wanted most for him.   The night before he left, he was set apart as an official missionary.  It was an amazing thing to witness such an immediate change in him.  The things of the world slowly started to slip from his mind and lose their place in his life.   You could see his focus shift and his spirit radiate. His friends came that night to say their final farewell.  He has always been surrounded by good friends and for that we are so grateful.

As we left for Provo the next morning everyone was pretty quiet. We were missing Nick as he was at scout camp.   He was so torn but in the end his scout leader told him he really needed to be there and so Josh and Nick had a special day just to themselves and did some fun things together.  We stopped in Centerville where Grandma had a wonderful lunch (josh's favorite of roast, mashed potatoes, homemade rolls, etc.) and the Hansen side of the family joined us.   It was a wonderful time and Josh truly felt the love of family.   He has had so much support from all of our extended families and also friends and neighbors.  All too soon it was time to make the final hour drive to the MTC.   We stopped at Walmart in Orem because I forgot to buy him an SD card for his camera so while I ran in, the kids took a few last pictures with him because there's no time at the MTC.  It is literally a drive by drop off.

As we arrived at the MTC and pulled into the gates I was overcome with an amazing spirit.  What an incredible and beautiful site.   There were hundreds of missionary standing on the curb waving, smiling, and just waiting to escort the new missionaries into the MTC.  My eyes were filled with tears as I looked at my sweet baby who was extra nervous but yet so excited to serve the Lord.   We got out to unload his bags and give our final hugs and that moment was one I will never forget.   So so hard to unwrap my arms from this amazing boy and just let him go.   But this moment was also my proudest moment with him and also one of the most beautiful memories I have.

I know without a doubt this is where he needs to be and I know that by letting him go, he will learn things I cannot teach him.  He will experience things that will make him grow like nothing at home can.   I also know that he is in the Lord's hands and that He is watching over him.   With that I have tremendous peace and trust the Lord with all my heart.  What better place could my boy be than in the care of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.   For years, I have worried about this sweet boy of mine.....when will he stop puking every time he eats, when will he take his first step, will he survive his first day of kindergarten, will he survive moving to Utah and leaving all his friends behind, will he know how to pass the sacrament for the first time, will he make the golf team, will he be okay driving down the street for the first time by himself, will he know how to treat the girls he takes out on dates, will he choose the right paths in everything he does.....and now I know that he has chosen the right path for him.  I also know that even though I will still worry about my sweet boy, it will be a different kind of worry.  I know the Lord has him and that gives this mom more peace than I have ever felt in raising this little boy of mine that has somehow turned into a man.   I love you little Joshie and will be praying for you constantly.   We will miss your sweet face and the fun loving spirit you bring into this family but we feel honored to be your family and are so proud of you.   You will be an amazing missionary and we feel so blessed to share your journey with you.   Xoxoxox