MTC Drop-off

Well, today was Drew's big day! He entered the MTC at 1 pm, full of smiles, joy, and excitement. We kept asking him if he was getting nervous, but he said only a little bit. This kid is READY to be on his mission! We stuffed the car as full as we could (one car drop-off limit per family). Literally, I was sitting on Ryan's lap, he was squishing Aunt Missy, who was probably squishing grandpa, too. :) My family is the best in the entire world. I am so thankful for the support they show us constantly! I know Drew feels it as well. When we pulled up, we all scrambled out of the car as fast as we could because we knew we would only have a few seconds with Drew. My mom and I took up most of the hugs, but that's okay I think. ;) I think I hugged Drew 4 times before Ryan finally peeled my arms from around his gigantic self. As he walked away, all I kept thinking was, "Wow. There goes one of Heaven's finest, off to fight a valiant battle." He looked so amazing. He turned around only once, and then was off on his merry little way. I still can't believe he's gone. It's exciting and surreal all at the same time. Sure, I've had plenty of breakdowns today (and even in my sleep apparently), but one thing is for certain; I KNOW that Drew is going to the perfect mission for him, a mission that will allow him to fully bloom and grow in the way he was intended to. I know that he is going to use that genuine kindness of his to meet wonderful people to teach and love. Who know's if we'll ever get him back from Ohio! I have a feeling they are going to love him too much to send him back. :) Here's to your best 2 years, bud!

And so it begins...

By request of quite a few people, we have decided to start a missionary blog on behalf of Elder Hatch. This way, more people can keep updated on how he is doing out in the field. So, check back here probably once a week for updates, pictures, stories, and letters from Drew. We are so proud of him and can't wait to hear all of the many wonderful things he will be doing in Ohio! Drew was set apart by his Stake President tonight at 6:30 and is now officially a missionary! It was a beautiful experience, one that will not soon be forgotten. The feeling definitely changed once he was set apart. Isn't that amazing how in a matter of minutes, the spirit of missionary work is alive and well? We will drop him off at the MTC tomorrow at 1 pm. Wish us luck! :) (Here is a picture of Drew to get things started.)

                                       Photo props go to Savannah Skinner. :)