Guest Blog: Ready or not.... by Teach

This is my final post directly from me until I come home from Texas in September 2014. I want the wonderful blogging world to know that I'm excited to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It will be one of the greatest blessings in my life. I was set apart tonight as a missionary which entails that I have to have a companion at all times - thus my mom is sitting in here reading while I"m writing the post. When I sat down in the chair to be set apart as a missionary I whispered to myself, "This is a game changer." Mom and I were just talking about what makes a game changer in our lives. I'd say I've only had about 3 games changers throughout my life. I"m interested to see what you folks would consider to be game changers in your lives.

I'm sorry this post is scatter brained, but mom says that's ok. I'm feeling an intense array of emotions right now as my life moves into a direction that it has never before seen. I don't know how it will all turn out.  No wait... I do. It will be all right. My family will be older and taller when I get back, but they will be here nonetheless. I'm so excited for this opportunity to serve because I know with all my heart that it is the best possible thing I could be doing right now. This is what I want. This is what I will do.

There is an item on my bucket list that says, "Do something that terrifies me." Within the last 8 months I could have easily crossed that off, but I haven't. I plan to cross it off and place the item in the bucket (literally... it's really cute) when I return from my mission. Because I'm terrified, and this will be one of the scariest things I ever do. I take comfort and peace in knowing that the Lord's hand is involved in my life. He loves me with a strength that can't be matched. I will find a fraction of that love for the people I meet in Texas

This is a portion from my farewell talk that I gave on Sunday. This is my final words of advice, encouragement, love and thoughts given to each member of my family. (I used their real names... because that woulda been weird...)


As everyone probably already knows, my family is outstanding. I have to stand here and state the claim on the coolest family in the world. I want to tell my dad thank you for all of the unsolicited fatherly advice. It’s written deep in my heart, Dad.  Mom, you are the most beautiful woman that I know. I’m so grateful every time some one says we look alike because I can’t imagine a greater compliment then to look like you. Bossy and Gamer, you guys are determined to reach your goals. So don’t forget that I’m rooting for you. Taco and Burrito. Stay cool. You guys rock. Gym Rat, you’ve always been one of my heroes and I’ll miss you, scarecrow. Drama Queen, I’m so proud that you’re a teacher and I’m excited to join you in the world of lesson plans someday. Stay strong. Dog Walker, I will miss you so much and I want you to continue to work hard in everything you do, because you’re happiness and reward will come. I promise. Princess, you are such an example to me with your strong heart and strong mind. I’ll miss being your roommate and I want you to send me your boy stories. Prima Donna, you will do a great job in your musical. And all of the other awesome things I will miss when I’m gone. Sing proud.  Crafty, I expect lots of really awesome pictures and crafts that I can use to decorate my life in Texas.  Sport, I’ll miss your hugs and your laugh. Kick butt in sports! Scout, you’re a great student so work hard in school and write me some good letters. Curly, never stop asking questions and do your best in kindergarten. You’ll just love it. And Baby Doll, you’re the cutest, so take care of the house while I’m gone. But don’t worry guys. I’ll be back soon.