Paydays & Remembering 9-11-01

 He posed, just like Bridger did in pics he has shown Elder Johnson

 Ready to ride...

 This is the Honduras jersey he sent for Stetson.  And the sunset is amazing!

Yesterday was a wonderful day.  My dad calls them paydays.  Here's why.  I love Mondays  Emails from our missionary are always so welcome.  It always fills my cup if you will to know that he is safe, well and happy.  This particular day was a bonus.  Bridger's last companion is from California but will be attending school here at LDS Business College.  So, Bridger sent his phone number and I called him yesterday.  He was as excited to see us as we were him.  He knew all about each of us and called everyone by name.  We already feel like he is part of our family.  Funny thing Bridger told him about Zoie, and especially the scooter.  So, we took a few pics with him on the scooter and he took it for a ride.  He also came bearing gifts, letters from our boy, a jersey for Stetson, wallet for Caleb a sweet knife for his dad and a bracelet made from coconut shells for me.  I truly felt like we witnessed another tender mercy of a loving Father in Heaven that has assured me how happy he is as he is serving.  Elder Johnson told us how much he loves Bridger and what an awesome missionary he is and how he can't wait for him to return.  I totally agree.  Welcome to the family Elder Jake Johnson, you already feel like one of our own.

Then also how can we ever forget where we were when the tragedies of 9-11-01 happened.  I remember watching the Today show and seeing the 2nd tower hit.  Wayne was in Chicago and doing work in the temple and had not seen what was going on.  As I was talking to him, more news was coming in.  I remember dropping to my knees and praying.  That is all I knew how to do.  That all these people who were affected by these terrible things would be protected and held in His arms.  What a different world we now live in.  So many things have happened and changed.  Each September 11th flags are placed to remind us of the sacrifices of so many who make us safe and who very innocently left their homes to go to a regular day at work, or wherever only to never be "normal" again.  I know I view things much differently now, too.  I was the driver today as Caleb and Wayne put up the flags on their route.  I was touched that Caleb didn't even say one compliant as he diligently went out and did his duty.  I think the events of that day have touched and affected all of our lives.  May we never forget...