The MTC drop-off . . .

The morning before entering the MTC is always a busy one with last minute packing and saying the final good-byes.

He's pumped . . . ready to go!

Getting the tie just right . . .

Spending a few minutes alone with mom

 

 

And then we were off to have lunch at Olive Garden along with about 50 of the other other 751 missionaries who entered the MTC on February 27th.

Elder Harris had the amazing opportunity of entering the MTC on the same day and the same time as his cousin, Elder Harris.  These are the last pictures we took as a family at the temple before the "drop-off".

Elder Harris and Elder Harris  :)

 

Two brothers with their two missionary sons

Our last family photo - for now . . .

McKenzie, Tyler, Elder Harris and Braeden

The Brothers!

And then it was 1:15 p.m. - time to check in . . . so we loaded back in the car and made the journey down the long road to the MTC.

A last shot with dad

He's ready!

And then he was gone . . .

 

Our family got back in the car and started to drive out of the MTC.  With tears streaming down all our faces, our oldest son who recently returned from his mission to Russia said these profound words, "So, this is what it feel like on the other side of this".  That's for all you moms who know.  :)

The Farewell

Elder Harris' farewell was on Sunday, February 24, 2013.  We are so thankful for all the family and friends who came to support him at this incredible event.  He spoke about why he loves being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  Some of his more important points were: (taken from his notes)

1.  It's home to me.  It feels right and I know it's true.  Although it seems like it took me a long time to realize that I truly loved this church, but when I look back, I always realized that I knew it was true.  I just had a couple bumps along the way.

2.  The people.  I love the people of the church because they are always willing to serve and to love.

3.  The Book of Mormon.  I love this book because the stories inside teach us how to live.

4.  Blessings and miracles I've witnessed. 

5.  Opportunities to serve and grow.  Serving a mission, home teaching, and coming closer to friends and family.

Elder Harris with his home teaching partner, Brother Adams

Elder Harris with his family

Saying good-bye to Grandpa and Grandma Harris

and Grandma and Grandpa Hill

the younger baseball buddies . . .