Travis and I donated blood on Saturday and we met some very nice missionaries.

I had sat down in their uncomfortable chairs and said hi to the young missionary to my right while they inserted the needle. He is from Massachusetts but originally from Puerto Rico. He is serving in a Spanish ward that is not in our stake. He heard our stake had set this up and talked his companion, who had never donated before, to come and help serve in this capacity.

 

As we were talking about New York of all places, he shared with me the fact that his only brother has special needs and he was the only missionary from their family that will be going out to serve. He then related a story about how his mother has been blessed because of him serving a mission. And she wants to enjoy these two years because she will never have them again. This got me thinking. Have I really started to enjoy this time with Ashley away swerving the Lord? No, I have missed her, counted down the months and weeks till she comes home, and waited impatiently for Mondays to roll around so I can chat with her.

This sweet young man, who happens to be going home August 2015, lol, reminded me that this is a special time for us as well. Not only do we have the opportunity to watch our daughter grow and become a better person, but we get to enjoy the Spirit that resides with us while having a missionary out. I need to appreciate that more. I need to enjoy it more as well! That way I can become a better person myself! And I really appreciate this young man for reminding me of this! And when my sweet Ashley comes home, he will be doing the same thing, and he will be right where he belongs! 

 

We also had a chance to visit with Elaine Ashcroft, who is going to the Philippines, Manila Temple mission and she is so excited! Her and her husband had planned on going on a mission and then he passed away. She has been saving up and now is going to live that dream the two of them had so long ago. I am so excited for her! She will be gone for 23 months but will have a great time! She has to report to the Salt Lake Temple for training. How cool would that be? Downtown Salt Lake is one of my favorite places in the world! So many church sites and memories!