Mission Accomplished.

Brother Jason came home today from serving a 2-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Oregon Eugene Mission. His faithful service has been a blessing to our entire family. I can't believe how much he has grown - spiritually and physically (apparently he has developed some nice, strong biceps!). We were all very happy that he chose to serve a mission, but we're also very happy that he is finally home.

Two years is a long time to not see a member of your family (only weekly emails and phone calls on Christmas and Mother's Day), but I know that his call to serve in Oregon was inspired from on high and that the message he shared and testified of is true. I consider my own experience of serving a mission in Spain to be one of the best and most fulfilling of my life. It might seem like a big sacrifice to leave behind family and friends, school and work for a 1 1/2-2 years, but in reality you receive so much in return that it can hardly qualify as a sacrifice. It is an honor and a privilege to serve. A blessing that I am eternally grateful for.

We were all there to meet Jason as he got off the plane this afternoon (minus Sister Kim who will join us this weekend, and Brother-in-Law Art and the Nephews). It was quite the emotional scene. There was a homemade sign, balloons and bells. It was awesome.

And Jason is now home. Which is even more awesome.

(waiting at the airport)

(Chris was really excited to see his little brother)

(the Missionary returns!)

(hugs for Mom and Dad)

(hugs for the siblings)

Jason and I will be making a road trip up to Utah in a week - so excited to spend more time with my not-so-little-anymore brother!