The Send Off

Wyatt reported to the Joseph Smith Memorial Building at 7:00 a.m. on November 12, 2018 to the Salt Lake City Headquarters Mission. Wyatt reported on his Grandfather Roland's birthday and his dad served in the Salt Lake City South Mission 33 years earlier. The day started meeting the missionary coordinators Brother and Sister Marrott as well as the Elder's he would be spending the week with before being assigned a companion. Another young man was reporting to the same mission that morning with Wyatt as well as a couple that was serving while awaiting their Visas. We were taken to the chapel in the JSMB that was once a ballroom. We attended a devotional with Wyatt before taking some pictures and saying our goodbyes. Spencer cried through the whole devotional. He was not wanting to say goodbye. Everyone struggled through the closing song "God Be With You Till We Meet Again" The song was meant to be a goodbye for the handful of missionary couples leaving the mission, but was really just a horrible way to torment our family. I don't think I will ever be able to sing that song again without reliving the sadness felt that day. Kicking him out of the car at the curb and just ripping the bandaid off probably would have been a better option. Mom was the only solid rock that day as she felt someone had to be strong since everyone else was falling apart, including dad! Mom made everyone wipe the tears and smile as we got some "happy" pictures together and then goodbyes were said. Wyatt gave advice to all his siblings: He told Spencer to be a good boy, keep his room clean and help mom. He told Bradyn he has to be the priesthood holder and be the man of the house when dad isn't home. He told Lexi to stay strong in school, stay away from temptation and talk to mom and dad. Mom told him it was time to swallow his tears and serve the Lord. It was a rough day for all. Spencer couldn't get through dinner without thinking that Wyatt was sad. We are anxiously awaiting the first email on Saturday and the official beginning of Wyatt's Mission Blog.

Sister Fenn, Elder Gatlin, President Fenn

The end of the day Spencer was very sad and worried that Wyatt might be sad too.