Setting apart and starting to serve

When Jena got her call, we were surprised that she was starting on October 14th at the DI.  That meant it was just over a week after receiving her call that she was set apart and started serving a few days later.



Setting apart of a missionary is always a sweet experience--it is extra special when it is your daughter or son---but perhaps a tiny bit sweeter when your daughter is Jena.  She had wanted to serve a mission for a long time.  She had to adjust her thinking to stay at home and serve but she did that as well and was willing to serve as Heavenly Father had set up for her to serve.  We are so grateful that Our Heavenly Father through his prophets and the organization of the Church has provided these unique opportunities for Jena and many others to serve.  It is a bonus that Dais County where we live is part of the pilot program which allows her not only to serve but be a part of a zone and have monthly activities and opportunities together.  The time is perfect for her and again I know that this is the time and the places where she is to serve.  AND SHE LOVES IT!



Pres. Brandt asked everyone in attendance to share words of advice with her and she was reminded to smile, work hard, and serve everyone.  Her blessing was amazing and nor only did almost everyone present have tears in their eyes, even Jena did.  I think it was one of the first times I have ever seen her cry in response to the Spirit.

The smile captures it all.

Everyone who attended her setting apart minus Nana (Karla who was taking in the picture) and
Uncle Mike and Aunt Charon
who headed back to their classes.

Jessica and Elessia headed up to our house when she got off work and we had dinner together to celebrate this special day.

Don't know how to rotate this picture
but here is her cake for the day.

It was fun to celebrate with our family.  We missed having Tosha and Austen there (I know I say it every time something happens but you do miss them more when we are together.)

And then she went to work--