This is it!

"A missionary: a person who leaves their family for a while so others can be with their families forever"

As of tonight I will officially be a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints! It's so crazy to think that this day is finally here. I've been waiting for this for a long time. There is nothing else I would rather be doing in my life right now than to be serving the Lord.

Tomorrow I will get on a plane and fly to Utah. I will go to the Missionary Training Center in Provo for six weeks. If my Visa comes, then I'll go to Brazil. If my Visa doesn't come by then, I will be temporarily relocated to another area for missionary service until it comes. Though it's extremely frustrating to wait for a Visa, I know Heavenly Father has a plan for me on this mission. I am serving Him and He is taking care of me. Whatever happens, happens. He's in control. I'll go where He wants me to go!

I'm excited, nervous, terrified, anxious, and everything all at once. I can't wait to get to get to the Missionary Training Center! I'm excited to feel of that special spirit there and to be surrounded by so many other missionaries, who are sacrificing 18-24 months of their lives just like me. I'm looking forward to going to Brazil and experiencing a brand new culture and people. I'm nervous about learning the language but I know I am not in this alone. The Lord will help me every step of the way. I'm anxious to leave my family. I am going to miss them so much! Though I know there are so many blessings in store for them as I make this sacrifice to serve. 

I know this church and the gospel of Jesus Christ is true. Why would I give up 18 months of my life to share something that isn't true? I believe it with my heart and soul.

I love you all! Thank you for the love and encouragement. It's so good to know of all the support I have back at home. I can't wait to get to work!!!!

My family will be posting my weekly letters to this blog for everyone to read. You can find my address and my email under "Write me!". I would love to hear from all of you!