You Have Been Called to Serve...

Mark's littlest brother received his call tonight to serve in the England London South Mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. His parent's home was filled with people that love him, friends and family, to share in this special moment with him. I am so excited for him and for us. He reports to the MTC in England on the 18th of January. Ryan is currently enrolled at the U and rushed with the Sigma Chi fraternity. He is the first in the family to participate in the frat life. He seems to enjoy it very much! We are all excited for him, just a little sad to not see him for the next two years. I don't think his nieces and nephews quite understand how long it really will be. They'll all be so big when he comes back. He is ten years apart from his next sibling, Scott. So, he has been a great uncle to these kids. Pillow fights, teasing, rough housing and so much more. I guess it is paybacks for all of the crap Scott and Mark put him through when he was little (swirlies in the toilet, mean pillow fights, major over the head snuggies). Congrats to Ryan!!!

Mark and I are off to Northern California Thursday for a little get away without the kiddos. We are excited to get away, but I am sad. Sad to leave my boys. They'll be in great hands. My brother and his wife are staying at our home with them. This is the start of a two week vacation for Mark. His work MAKES him take off two consecutive weeks of vacation each year. They deal with so much money, it is a way for the firm to protect themselves from embezzlement. It is great. Usually you feel guilty taking off more that one week - they force you to do two. So, he doesn't go back until November 1st. I am so excited :)