Joyful Reunion

Jeff served his mission in Christchurch, New Zealand from 1978 to 1980. This week we had the opportunity to spend time with two of his fellow former missionaries, Dave Swinney and Keith Adam. Keith and his family were visiting from Australia.Elder Swinney, Elder Jarvie, and Elder Adam

It reminded us of the encounter in Alma, Chapter 17, which reads, "....Alma did rejoice exceedingly to see his brethren; and what added more to his joy, they were still his brethren in the Lord; yea, and they had waxed strong in the knowledge of the truth; for they were men of a sound understanding and they had searched the scriptures diligently, that they might know the word of God."


Dave Swinney, Keith Adam, Litia Adam, Gaylene Adam, Lisa and Jeff
The Adam Family

My Nephew Graham

I just got this great picture from my 16 year old nephew Graham-- Thanks Graham--that made my day--I hope to come up and see a water polo game soon! Love, Aunt Lisa

Happy and Sad All at Once

Lauren Jarvie, just a minute ago

Lauren Jarvie, All Grown Up

This past week Jeff and I have been in Utah to settle Lauren in to BYU. Is there really any way to prepare for a child leaving home? It is such a mixture of emotions. On the one hand, we are so happy and full of anticipation for the exciting times and opportunities that Lauren has ahead of her. But then on the other hand, we are at our saddest because we will miss having her at home so very much. WE LOVE OUR LAUREN!


While in Utah, we were also able to go to the Missionary Training Center to see two young men, Nate Packer and Rowdy Day, report for their two years of missionary work. Both had been in Jeff's boy scout troop when they were younger, and later on were in the singles ward with us. Nate had also been in our seminary class for 4 years, and we had spent many years going on motorcycle trips with his family.


We were lucky enough to be able to go into what John Packer calls the "room of doom" where the missionaries and their families part ways for two years. Lauren came with us and we had so much fun watching all the missionaries arrive for their big day! Nate Packer

Rowdy Day

Rowdy and his Family

Anyway, with all of this separation from loved ones swirling around in my brain, right now I am especially grateful that we, as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, know that through the blessings of the temple,

FAMILIES CAN BE TOGETHER FOREVER

With Lauren at the temple, 2008

Ann and Brody, 2004