San Diego, Missionaries, Trust in the Lord

For my parent's 40th Wedding Anniversary they invited us all to a beach house in San Diego.  They have been planning this trip for about a year.  I had also decided to have all my kids change their schools to traditional schedule which allowed us the opportunity to go to Utah in August for Aspen Grove.  In March my parents were asked to go to the Church Office Building and meet with the Middle East Africa North Area (MEAN Desk.)  There they were asked to serve another mission in the Middle East.  I love that my parents always put the Lord first and said that they were willing to go.  They explained the plans that had been made this summer and it was agreed that they could finish their plans and leave the beginning of September.  I was so grateful that the Lord had made so many plans for us to be able to spend so much time with them before they leave.

On the plane to San Diego.  Samantha and Maddie were buddies throughout the trip.

We were all anxious to hear where they were going to go.  They were told that they would be sent to either Lebanon, Northern Iraq, or back to Jordan.  We were all hoping for Jordan.  When their letter arrived they were called to the Middle East Africa North Area, and the specific location would be decided at the MTC.  I think they are the only missionaries to go to the MTC not knowing where they are going.

John Derek helping Michael.  Such a sweet brother.

1 Nephi 4:7

1 Nephi 4:7 

"7  Nevertheless I went forth, and as I came near unto the house of Laban I beheld a man, and he had fallen to the earth before me, for he was drunken with wine."

• As I read this passage I was reminded of how the Lord takes care of everything. We are looking to buy a new car before I drive out to Utah in less then a month. With only a few weeks before we leave I worry that we won't find exactly what we want/need. So I think that I should spend all my time looking for the right vehicle. But I keep getting this very calm feeling telling me to not worry, to not spend huge amounts of time searching. That the Lord is aware and that He will provide exactly what we need and when we need it. I am so blessed to have such a wonderful Father in Heaven. I feel so blessed to know of His love for me. I put all my faith and trust in Him.

 

Mom and Dad ready for the next adventure.

On the plane.  Everyone is so excited!

John Derek was the brave one and sat by himself most of the trip.  He has a way with people and strangers.  Each flight he made quick friends with the person sitting next to him.  He was brave and strong.  I even had a woman sitting behind me and just observing John Derek tap me on the shoulder and tell me what a great young man he is.  I totally agree.  As Grandpa Dew always says, "He will make a great missionary."