Arriving at the Mission Training Center (MTC)

The day had finally arrived . . . Sister Fresh would report to the Provo MTC to begin her mission!!!  

Aimee got ready and packed her bags, we picked up Sherry and Josh, and then headed out. Our first stop was the Super Target in Orem to get her glasses adjusted and purchase a few last minute items. While in Target Aimee used her cell phone for the last time, shed a few of tears, turned it off, and gave it to me. A small sacrifice for many great blessings! 

We then went to Cafe Rio for lunch, at Aimee's request! The chicken tortilla soup was delicious on such a cold day. There was a family sitting across the restaurant with a daughter who was dressed in Sunday clothes with flats . . . another missionary! Aimee went up to talk to her and she was also entering the MTC to prepare to serve in the Norway Oslo Mission. 

At about 12:20 pm we passed the MTC on our way to the Provo Temple to take some last minute pictures. As we looked down the entrance to the MTC we saw a solid line of young missionaries in dark jackets waiting to welcome the incoming missionaries. It was a very impressive and emotional sight. The thought that kept coming to mind was that I am seeing the armies of Helaman! 

Here are some of the pictures we took on the temple grounds:

A reporter for the Daily Universe, BYU's student newspaper, approached Aimee, asked her a few questions, and took a picture of our family. They told us that this was the first week that 18 year old elders and 19 year old sisters were entering the MTC. They also said there were 4,000 missionaries who would be arriving today, the largest group ever!

 There was time for a few last minute words of advice from Dad . . . 

We drove into the MTC and were ushered to parking space #24. When we got out of the car there was a young missionary who was going to Brazil. He asked Aimee three questions . . . 

     Do you have your immunization records? 

     Do you have a cell phone? 

     Do you have any keys in your pocket? 

Her answers were yes, no, and no!!!  

He then took  her luggage and commented that she had less than most elders! We said heartfelt, but quick good-byes and Aimee walked away to begin her new adventure as a missionary. We were happy to see her turn back and wave at us with a big smile on her face! 

We love you Sister Fresh . . . May God be with you until we meet again!