Called To Serve -

On Tuesday, Sept. 4th, we had the privelege of having Parker and Tyler get set apart as missionaries for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.  They walked in the Stake Center as regular Parker and Tyler and came out as authorized representatives of their Savior Jesus Christ.  They were given beautiful and powerful blessings by their Stake President through the power of the priesthood.  The Spirit was strong and peace was present in the room.  It was a profound experience.  The Lord knows these two young men.  You could just feel it.  God has a plan and know's each of His children.  That's the motivating power of missionary work.  It's inspiring, uplifting, and when we remember why the twins decided to go on missions it makes it easier to share them as we say goodbye.

Yes, the hearts strings are being pulled and strained but they are playing beautiful heavenly music.  Well, after the airport this morning believe me, their was dissonance.  The hearts of Mom, Dad and brothers are in a full crescendo of Emotion, Joy, Love, Tenderness, Gratitude...
Oh and So much more.

Elder Parker Traasdahl as he heads out with luggage to the Sky Harbor Airport. 6:00 a.m. 9-5-12
 Looks like he's got a good handle on things.

The Drive into Phoenix.   

Here's 'The Last Goodbye' on 'this side' of the security Gate.  We gave quick hugs, expressed our love and the four of us started the long walk back to the car while the new missionaries zipped through security.   As we looked for our vehicle in level 5 parking we spotted the airplane they would fly on from the parking lot.  We wondered how they were feeling.  How awesome to leave on a mission with your twin.  How many people get to do that?

  Their plane was scheduled to depart at 7:40 a.m.  We did pretty good until we got home to a house without the twins.  Honestly, when I say 'we' I really meant, "I".  Yes, the tears randomly burst with no compassion for what it was making my face look like.  Get a grip Mom.
Actually... I think it's going to be hard for a while.

Tissue please?  Oh & a heart monitor.  I didn't know a heart could feel this way.  Double goodbyes!

WE LOVE YOU ELDER PARKER TRAASDAHL &
 WE LOVE YOU ALSO ELDER TYLER TRAASDAHL!!!