Homecoming and Mark setting apart

Aliza had the entire sacrament meeting to speak for her homecoming. She did a great job and expounded many great truths of the gospel. She is a gifted speaker. Her many years of practice and work shows in her ability to testify and teach. 

After church we posed for a picture getting that many people to not be silly in the picture. I am so thankful for the growth, health, and strength of each of these. It is amazing to me that this is our family.  That is the heart and reason of the gospel message these missionaries share. You are a child of God, you are part of an eternal family, and you can create a family of your own to nurture you and them throughout eternity.  

Probably one of the best parts of the weekend were just being together. We had a late night date of ice cream before everyone was pushed to bed so we could be on time Sunday. 

 Mark was also sustained and then ordained to be an elder in the church of Jesus Christ of Latter- Day Saints. I was thankful this worked out so we could have these great men and others be part of that experience. There is power in generations. 

The week before I had taught and a sister shared how I taught thing she had not studied. She also shared how she was raised to care about how we present ourselves at church. Noting that she shined shoes for the men who were attending in her family. I knew my guys shoes were worn and needed some attention. I remembered to buy the necessary products and spent time Saturday night while visiting with the same men who's feet fill these shoes shining and repairing the damage of years of use. 

I appreciate the reminders of past habits from older ward members. It is good to be more intentional and to take some time looking better. That was a surprising compliment Aliza paid of growing up knowing there was town dressing and work dress. That she worked with companions to make these adjustments to being more presentable as they went out to work as missionaries and share the gospel message. 

After church we had a small family gathering on our shady lawn. This is the best time of year to have gatherings as we have abundant shade the bugs are minimal and it is just pleasant to be outside visiting. We appreciate the support and love of our family members. 

And just like that after a quick 5 days she filled Anna's car with her stuff and they headed to Wyoming. 

It was bittersweet to see her go. But what was expected. We are thankful for the time together and grateful the older kids have courage and determination to chart their own courses and live their lives. They are independent and capable. They are doing good things, learning lessons of life, and growing their testimonies and experience. This brings great joy to our hearts. And there is need for them to move on so the younger kids can have space and responsibility to also grow. It's good to be together and its necessary to be apart. We are blessed.