Saying Good-Bye In Utah

May 27, 2012 Mission Update

We made it to Utah by the skin of our teeth. The last few days were so crazy trying to get everything packed for the mission and get our house packed up and in order. We didn't make it to bed the night before we left. I had to leave about a third of all the things I had planned to take. Just too much weight. I realize now that it will all work out - really no big deal. It was really great to have dinner with our families in Camarillo (thanks Elizabeth,) and to have them come to our setting apart and say goodbye. Our dear home teacher and former Bishop Johnson took us to the airport (thanks Skip). We got there is plenty of time and then of course the flight was delayed due to mechanical problems. At least we finally got to go. We arrived late Friday afternoon, May 25th. Since we didn't have to report to the MTC until Monday we had the opportunity to spend the weekend with our family in Utah.

Lisa Ashton (Bill jr.'s wife) picked us up from the airport and the boys helped us with all the luggage - ugg! We had such a wonderful time with our Utah families, The Bill Ashtons, The Swains and The David Ashtons and Jessa, Wes and our newest great granddaughter Mina. I got to see my sister Carolyn Friday night. It was very nice to catch up with her. On Saturday we had quite the adventure - hiking in the canyon in the rain. After a little moaning and groaning it really was fun and quite beautiful. We warmed up with hot chocolate and soup after. That night we all went to the temple together. It was the highlight of the weekend. We had a great dinner at Lisa and Bill's Sunday after church with everyone. Thanks Jesa for all your help on the i pad and Blog. Hopefully I'll get it figured out. Monday morning Bill jr. took us down to the MTC in his truck. It was so cute to see the kids waving us off. Thanks Rachael and Emily for the beautiful letters and pictures. They are a treasure. Thank you to everyone for making that weekend and send off so great.

We love you all

Elder and Sister Ashton