North Carolina Mini Trip

In 2006 Ryan began his two year LDS mission to serve the hispanic people of North Carolina. That was 6 years ago. Since then, one of the families he baptized has a son that has decided to serve a two year mission of his own. So, we planned a trip back to NC to visit with this family and to support this young man as he sets off on the next chapter in his life. Incredibly, Ryan's mission companion, Heath Dewey, who co-taught this family only lives 20 minutes from us and so he and his wife were able to come with us! We took off early Friday and drove down to VA Beach where we stopped for the day/night. We stayed with one of Heath's cousins and her family. They have a daughter that is only 6 days older than Hailey- they had a blast together! They took us to the beach and Ryan and the other guys had endless fun surfing, skin boarding, and whatever else activities they are called on the beach with a board.

(Hailey and Kennedy playing at the beach)

(hanging out at Heath's cousin's house)

On Saturday we drove down to NC and did some site seeing around the areas that Heath and Ryan lived for 6 months together. We finally met up with the Cabreras (the family they converted). We helped set up for Carlos' (the son going on a mission) farewell party at the church and enjoyed some authentic homemade mexican food... Holy Heavens Above- SUCH GOOD FOOD! I've never had such amazing tamales in all my life! yummm.

(pinata!)

On Sunday we went to church with the Cabreras and Ryan and Heath were given the opportunity to speak in church with Carlos. It was emotional and very touching. We spent the afternoon with the family and were able to all bear testimony to the gospel and the spirit that was being felt. It was such an amazing opportunity. I absolutely LOVE seeing how Ryan has changed the lives of others. I was not given the opportunity of serving a mission myself, but I have been given the opportunity to see the blessings that come from serving one, or marrying someone who has. I am SO blessed to have such an amazing husband who was selfless enough to give up two years of his life to serve others and bring the knowledge of the gospel to them. I couldn't be more proud or happy for my husband. And how amazing it was for him to see the rippling effects of his mission taking into effect. 

(us and the Cabreras)

(Cabrera family and their missionaries!)

(Heath, Carlos, and Ryan)

(Ryan and Heath with the current missionaries serving in that area, and Carlos!)

Carlos will now serve in the Salt Lake, Spanish Speaking Mission for 2 years. He will now get to experience the giving end of the conversion process and have personal experience from the receiving end. 

What an amazing weekend. My testimony has truly grown and expanded. The Lord has truly blessed me and my little family. 

(rocking out in the back seat on the way home)