Time with Family- Saying Goodbye
Each of our five children, their spouses and our grandchildren came out to Utah so we could spend some time together before we left for our three-year mission. I am grateful to them for their sacrifice of time and money to be together.
It was wonderful to be with everyone. Being a parent and grandparent helps me to understand the love of our Heavenly Father for each of us - His children. I hope that each member of my family understands how precious they are to me and Mark. Each one is unique and amazing.
Here are the names of our grandchildren: The Anderson Family: Mark, Caleb, Tyler, Luke, Lily, and Grace. The Black Family: Andrew, Isaac, Lydia, and Matthew. The Boswell Family: Hailey, Margaret, and Clayton. The Quinn Family: Odessa and Hank. The Francis Family: Elaine and Samuel. We love them and will miss them. We look forward to them visiting us in Santa Rosa, California.
While our children were growing up our family motto was “Quinns Don’t Quit.” We have recently changed it for the extended family to “Quinns Don’t Quit the Covenant Path.” I want my grandchildren to know that staying on the covenant path has brought me great joy and I know it will do the same for them. This path by its very definition is one that signifies a relationship with our Savior as He walks with us. I believe what it says in Philippians 4:13; “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” I am deeply grateful for the covenants I have made at baptism and in the House of the Lord that guide and strengthen me as I strive to become more like our Savior, Jesus Christ.
While in Utah, Katie and Dave blessed sweet little Grace on Sunday June 18, 2023. We were delighted we could all be together for this.
Our children also put together a wonderful farewell party for us as Sugar House Park in Salt Lake City, where we could visit with family and friends before leaving for our mission. It was wonderful to see people we haven’t seen in a while!
We spent some time with our mothers who both live in the Salt Lake area. They are both elderly. Mark’s mother Joan is almost 94 and Elaine’s mother Daryl is almost 90. It was a tender time saying goodbye to them.
We had a teary group hug as Mark and I were dropped off at the Missionary Training Center (MTC) on Wednesday June 21st at 12:45 pm.
Thank you for your support in reading my weekly post/letter! Elaine
