Sister Judd gave a beautiful farewell talk in church on August 11, 2013. Her subject was the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Her message was uplifting and inspiring. As her mother, it was one of those special moments where you look at your child and think, wow she is amazing! I know Emily will be a great missionary and I am so happy that she decided to put her personal life on hold for a bit and focus on serving others.
On Sunday evening we had an open house so that Emily's friends could come over and say goodbye. Two wonderful friends of mine, Mia Brooks and Heidi Hunt made this cute cake for the occasion.
On Monday evening, Emily dropped her cell phone into the garbage can. She was ready to put the things of the world aside, and believe me this was not an easy thing for her to do...but it does show just how dedicated she is to being obedient and doing her best. That night we all headed over to the stake center for her to be set apart as a missionary. What a special experience that was. The spirit was so strong. President Thompson asked everyone to go around the room and state one blessing that they would like for Heavenly Father to bless Emily with. Everyones answers were so heartfelt! Then President Thompson laid his hands on her head and set her apart as a full time missionary.
Sister Judd and I flew to Salt Lake City on Tuesday. It was late by the time we got there. We slept at Grandma and Grandpa Judd's house. The next morning we had brunch with several of Emily's friends. It was so nice to see the love and support from them! Then she and I drove to the MTC. It was surreal! They have quite a drop off system there....you pull up along the curb and get out while a missionary gathers your luggage. We had time for one last hug and I was ushered back into my car and off I went.
The tears that fell from my eyes were full of mixed emotions. Tears of joy that my daughter was choosing to do something so wonderful and selfless, knowing that she will learn and grow so much in the next eighteen months. But also tears of sadness because I will miss being able to call her on the phone whenever I want to, and I will miss her smiling face..especially during the holidays when everyone is home. It is wonderful to have a missionary. I feel incredibly blessed!!
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