On December 27, 2010 at 7:30 p.m. we anxiously awaited the return of our son. I could write a novel of a post since that day. Well, the whole journey! I was so excited waiting for him to come down that escalator I feared I would pee my pants, ha ha! NOTHING compares to that first hug, and the bunches after that! He looked so GREAT! I just love the one of him hugging Blythe, it just says it all. His friend Ricky body-slammed-hugged him so hard they both went flying a few feet! ha ha. Steven went into instant RM help mode and had his luggage in no time flat, awesome son-in-law that he is.
We've done a lot of "what did you just say?" He's still mixing Spanish up with English. After the airport we went directly to the Stake President's office for his release. After their long interview, he walked out of the building with us and patted his suit where his missionary tag used to be. He looked pretty choked up. No words needed.
First thing he did when entering the house was walk around -- everywhere, checking things out. I was a little worried when he entered the "Man Cave" -- we'd made a few changes downstairs. Finished the bathroom (finally) and moved his stuff into Blythe's old room (it's bigger). Of course transitioned it to look total Man Cave style. I nervously asked what he thought and he replied "from what I'm used to? this is five-star hotel status!" ha ha ha
After all the hoop-la ended that evening, he sprawled out on our bed like old times and the three of us just talked and talked and talked into the late hours. It was wonderful!
Words can't even properly describe the whole missionary experience, grateful for the experience, sad it's over, glad he's home. Christmas Eve and Christmas were a blast! When we made his favorite requested dinner, Grandma Reid asked if he would bless the dinner in Spanish -- soo cool! Didn't understand much of it, but we sure felt the spirit. And for what Santa brought -- those will be some fun photos I'll have to post when I get time. He was a little surprised by one gift in particular, ha ha ha!
One of my favorite parts of this week was watching him with his dad. A favorite moment that will always tug at my heart. Keith had made a promise to Derek when he was just a little boy, and watching him fulfill that promise --- well, I'm at a loss for words and it brings a tear or two. Too precious to share. I love my family, we're so blessed!
Derek's homecoming talk is this Sunday the 9th at 11:00, LDS Chapel 12232 S. 3200 W., Riverton. We'd love to see you there -- we have awesome family and friends! Thanks for sharing in this journing with us.
