Elder Goodale Reports to the MTC

Today Justin reported to the MTC (Missionary Training Center) in Provo, UT, and what a great experience that was. It's amazing the feelings that exist in that place, and it brought back A LOT of good memories for Michelle and I, even though we were both there more than 20 years ago, at the start of our respective missions.

It was a bittersweet experience, but mostly sweet. We are so proud of Justin for the desire he has to serve, and for being ready and willing to embark on this great adventure. Of course, mom and dad were both a wreck; I couldn't even make it three words in to singing the opening hymn "Called To Serve" before crying! :-)

After dropping Justin off, we were all at lunch and Michelle commented, "When Christopher goes in to the MTC, perhaps it won't be as hard as today was, since Christopher will already have been gone (for boot camp, AIT training, etc.) for such a long time already..." My comment was initially misunderstood and brought some surprised laughter; I said, "I don't think we were crying because we will miss him." I further explained myself that we WILL all certainly miss him, but what I meant to say was that it won't be easier because missing him isn't the main reason we were crying. We were crying mostly because we are so happy that Justin has chosen to serve in such a manner, and that he is so ready to do this work! THAT will certainly not change as Christopher (and our other kids) go on missions. We'll still all be wrecks when we drop our kids off at the Missionary Training Center. :-)

Posted here are some pictures from today, and more are posted here on Facebook, or here on Flickr.

We appreciate all your prayers for Justin. And I'm sure he would appreciate letters, too. His mailing address through December 3, 2008 is:
Elder Justin Michael Goodale
MTC Mailbox #270
OK-TUL 1203
2005 N. 900 E.
Provo, UT 84604-1793