Robert leaves for the MTC

Robert is so excited to finally go to the MTC.  He has been preparing for this for a long time, but he has increased his efforts over the last month as he has been learning Thai with his dad and with MTC instructors.  

Abby came to see Robert's farewell talk.  It was so nice of her to travel from Missouri.  We had a lot of fun with her, but that's for a different post.

Robert with Abby Deru 

Shannen and David Roy (D-Roy)

Monday night, the night before Robert left for the MTC he was set apart as a missionary.  That was such a wonderful and special blessing that was given to him.  Later that night the Roy's came to visit.  It was super nice of them.  They are moving to Pennsylvania so we will miss them, too.

Repeat prom poses

 The next morning at like 5:30 we left for the airport.  Max Sanders was at our house waiting to go with us to take Robert.  He is such a great friend.  Robert is excited but also a little apprehensive about what is about to take place.  He will be leaving for two years, no holds back.   Max goes into the airport with us.

Max and Robert

 It was time to say good-bye.  I never like good-byes.

Mom, Robert and Mark

Max and Robert one last time

Ready to go

Dad is so proud of him.

 When Robert arrived in Salt Lake City, Marissa picked him up at the airport.

   

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She treated him to his favorite food "The Cheesecake Factory".  He ordered all his favorites, Crusted Chicken Romano, Adam's Peanut butter cheese cake!  What a great day - the weather was perfect. 

He looks so happy to be there

Chicken Romano

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 From there they went to the Salt Lake Temple and took some pictures.

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They also went shopping for some last minute items.  Robert fit in perfect with one of the store fronts. .

Where's Robert? 

While there, Robert ran into a good friends.  What a great surprise. That night Robert stayed at Jessica and Tate's place.

The next day the ate lunch at Cafe' Rio - tradition!!!  Marissa got one last photo of Robert alone.  Together Tate, Jessica, Devon and Marissa took Robert to the MTC.  

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One last group hug - I'm sure it was a tight one.  Thanks for Tate taking the photo.

Marissa got one more hug in - they are like twins - I'm sure this is hard for her, but at the same time everyone is so happy for Robert because they all know what it is like.

 .  Off he goes.