Where in the world ARE we going?

Is it Texas or Brazil?

No, it is actually somewhere that barely made the map!

The day we arrived the woman who oriented us "admonished" us to take a picture in front of the map. Thinking it was just too corny for words, we decided to honor the boys. Thank you Ryan and Brett for your service. You have been my inspiration for surviving the MTC. I have come to understand in the most real way that what you did here and accomplished here is quite remarkable. Don't get me wrong, there are many wonderful things about this experience but they come with many challenges. Thank you for your dedication and your examples.

Last night we attended the weekly fireside and listened to Elder Evans (from the Seventy) and his wife speak. Sister Evans addressed the "seniors" for a moment. (I still think of "them" as seniors--I haven't figured out what I am although we have certainly acted like them--among other things we locked ourselves out of our room twice) She said, "Get ready for the incredible blessings that will be poured out upon your family." I remember the blessings that came so freely when the boys were serving. I am counting on what I know from experience and her promise. I am anxious to see the blessings that will come to you. I pray every day that you will see them and they will be a reality in your lives. I will work tirelessly to ensure that those blessings are yours--I came to serve the Lord because I love Him and you. I am grateful to know that He can and will take better care of you than Dad and I can. It is truly that knowledge that will allow me to board a plane next week for a place that barely made the map. Mom

Yes, it's me. You probably were wondering if Reedo would ever post anything; and yes (although you probably weren't wondering about this) Mom helped me. I know I mentioned this to some of you, but one of the best moments of our mission so far occurred when we were set apart. There is something very special about being a missionary that is spiritually palpable. You boys know what that feels like; it's an amazing thing. When Mom was being set apart, I was overwhelmed by the sweet feeling that she was now a missionary and could experience the strength and comfort that comes with the mantle of a missionary. I have loved most of the MTC (the breakfast food is disgusting and the redundancy of the teaching is driving me a little nuts; "I get it" keeps going through my brain) and have been amazed once again at the power of the spirit in this place. The Lord has a very short time to change and prepare hearts; He does it in a variety of ways through the comfort, power, strength, wisdom and sweetness of the Holy Ghost. It truly is an experience everyone should have at least once. That is why I hope you all look forward to serving a Senior Mission some day. I love you all. Dad