Mixed Feelings!

So, we had a surprise early birthday party for Tony.  This is the Portuguese flag.  We had friends and family over and enjoyed the evening.  These past two weeks I have spent my time keeping busy with getting Tony ready to go and kind of denying he is leaving.  It is Monday morning as I am typing this and the realization has hit (started last night with tears in the privacy of my room) that we say goodbye Wednesday morning.  James has hugged and consoled me and said our little boy is gone forever but a fine young man will return instead.  I love my little boy and even though I will love this young man, I will miss my little boy.  He will be an awesome missionary and the Lord is happy to have him.

 The missionaries have been utilizing Tony for 2 years.  They will miss him.

 Our Elder Etherington went home last weekend.  What a wonderful Mother's Day for his mom!

Movie number 3.  This one is a bit darker than the others - that's my disclaimer for kids under 12. :)

Becca Nae Nae turned 13.  Hard to believe.  She is an amazingly talented young lady and cute as an be!

It looks so natural, doesn't it?

Cute little Jet!

Waiting for Shiloh and Addy to answer Skype

 He's got his Addy on Skype

We set the pool up in early this year.  We set it up May 6.  The kids enjoyed the 78 - 84 degree weather!

ASB Awards assembly at school

 Levi seems so thrilled with his award.  Actually, it is the highest award from ASB.  Overall character and achievement award.

 Marimba players

Jr. Lilac Parade.

 Becca is far right.

 My Happy Mother's Day.  It started with blueberry pancakes and crepes.

Sweet gifts

The kids entertaining themselves while they wait for me to get a picture for Mother's Day

 My sweet kids.  Missing Shiloh, Scott, Addy and Ellie!

 My new picnic table the kids and James built for me.

 My little boy - who will return a fine young man!

 Well, there you have it.  Everything is so bitter sweet.  I love who my children are turning put to be, but I so miss those toddlers!  This next week will be filled with happiness for Tony and serious depression for us.  I remember feeling like Shane might as well have died.  I know, maybe dramatic, but true.  SO... the next time I post, there will be sad pictures of the airport and an empty bed.  But the next one after that will have a letter form him!  Maybe I should just skip the airport. :)