Wednesday, April 19, 2006

Elder Whelchel is winging his way to SLC

Its official, he is on his way. We attended his setting apart last night, thank you Jan and Carleton for making that trip. I know it was a late night for you, but it sure meant alot to both James and his parents.

He ended up having to leave some stuff home due to weight restrictions, so we kept home some of the stuff he will need in Taiwan versus Provo. We will mail it to him either at the MTC or directly to Taiwan. I figure if he already has a weight problem its only going to get worse as they give him more stuff in the MTC. We will see.

Oh yeah, wanted to share one thing if time is ever a concern when writing to him. There is a service called dearelder.com that you access through the internet. If you write an email to James (Elder Whelchel) what ever they receive by noon gets delivered hard copy to him that very same day. You can also send care packages through them. Their service to the MTC is free. Check them out.

5 comments:

silleeg said...

Glad that the setting apart went well and that mom and dad were able to make it.

How was James this morning saying goodbye. I know going on a mission is a good thing, but I have felt a little sad today remembering the times I have said goodbye to missionaries. We have been praying for him.

Thanks for the info about writing him. Hope your family is being comforted.

Tracy said...

He seemed abit tense, but no tears. I think he just wanted to be at the MTC, once he gets there he will be fine. He doesn't like to fly!!

Mom and Dad said...

The meeting last night was wonderful! We were very impressed with your Stake President and the way he made the evening so special. We are grateful to be James' grandparents - he is truly and exceptional young man. We love you and Lewis and pray for Heavenly Father's comforting spirit to be with you and the children at this time of separation. Joyful, yet bitter/sweet.

silleeg said...

Tracy, How are your kids doing? Did the whole family go to the setting apart?

Tracy said...

Yes the whole family attended the setting apart. The kids seem fine. We misunderstood Daniel and thought he had said goodbye to James last night and wanted to sleep in, but we had an irritated son this morning when he realized that he had missed James's departure and he hadn't bid him farewell. Caitlin is emotional today and Jonathan won't talk about James at all. I think all will be fine once we get the first letter. Its just too new and fresh.