MTC Drop Off Day

As with Houston's three older siblings (Hema who served in Ecuador Guayaquil North Mission 2006-2008, Helam who served in Georgia Atlanta Spanish-speaking 2010-2012, and Hevynn who served in Japan Kobe Mission 2013-2015), MTC Drop Off Day got here sooner than expected.

Houston's buddies came to the house then came along with us to Provo (L to R: Kincaide, Fua, Elder Heimuli, Soakai and Mana). 

Harrison now gets to take over Elder Heimuli's long-held responsibility of escorting the mature women in the family -- what a little gentleman, just like his brother. 

Elder Heimuli bids a fond farewell to his bros at the Provo Temple grounds. They'll see each other in about 3 years!

Some family photos before we head down the hill to the MTC:

Then a few serious missionary poses...

And we're off to the MTC!

We've been in this familiar situation many times before and I must admit it doesn't get any easier. In fact, I think it's getting harder...at least it is for this missionary mom. 

The nice man at the front asks whether we are bringing an elder or a sister, tags our car accordingly, and directs us to the stop. 

Lucky #7 is our stop where a smiling Tongan elder from Oregon, Elder Kofe, becomes Elder Heimuli's Host to welcome him into the MTC.

Sixty quick seconds of pics, hugs and kisses, and Elder Heimuli walked away with a huge smile on his face. See you in two years, Elder!  We love you.

Officially Elder Heimuli

Houston and siblings (L to R: Alyssa, Hevynn, Helam, Hema, Norma, Harrison and Bo) have dinner and a lot of laughs before he gets set apart as a full-time missionary. 

Dad, Mom, Grandpa Murray and Grandma Murray join us for dinner and for Houston's setting apart. 

Walking into the Stake Center to be set apart, Grandma straightens Houston's collar as Grandpa walks in. 

Tuesday night, June 16, 2015, Houston was set apart. The whole family was there along with Bishop Croft. What a special and sacred time it was. The spirit was strong and so were the feelings of love expressed to Elder Heimuli in the meeting with President Woodruff. 

Grandpa Heimuli, Elder Heimuli and Grandma Heimuli

Grandma Murray, Elder Heimuli and Grandpa Murray

Mom, Elder Heimuli and Dad

Hevynns IG post...too cute. 

Farewell

Another very busy weekend.  Houston's last weekend at home.

Friday night the Bolen family came into town and treated us all to an unforgettable night at The Roof Restaurant. It was Norma's 25th birthday, and of course Houston's final Friday night at home before he leaves on his mission. Bo made the awesome decision to propose to Hevynn before Houston left, and what a blessing it was for all of us to be together for such a special occasion. Although Elder Heimuli will miss the wedding, he was happy to be there for the proposal!

See how happy Elder Heimuli looks?!

Sunday was a warm, sunny Sabbath. Bishop said they counted 574 people in attendance to hear Houston speak in church. He did a great job. Hema, Helam, Hevynn and Harrison sang "I Have A Testimony" by Aunty Tina. We had a few hundred of Houston's friends and family over to the house afterward too. 

There was also quite a bit on Twitter and Facebook about Houston's farewell.

He is going to be a great missionary. And we are going to miss him.