Elder Stoneman in Provo Utah

The day has been long and mostly very sweet with only the occasional familial melt-down. After packing well into the night, Elder Ed arose at 7:00 a.m. to skype with Max and Brooke in Jerusalem. We then met up with all assorted siblings (minus the aforementioned Jerusalem-dwellers) plus four nephews at Market Street Broiler for a completely tasty lovely breakfast. Chatting, laughing, and munching were the order of the day. (Actually the order of the day was more towards omelets, eggs benedict, pancakes, and mug upon mug upon mug of hot chocolate.) Afterwards, much hugging and goodbye-ing ensued outside on the sidewalk. A bit of weeping was then followed by a great deal of wailing (ask Calvin G who is feeling mighty tender about Uncle Aug leaving), with the grand finale provided by baby Graham who threw up all over the entrance to the New Yorker. Allen, Ruth and the Elder then loaded Robert Anne the car with all missionary baggage, etc. and wended our way south, stopping only for soft ice cream in Lehi. Arriving at the MTC, we experienced the infamous 'drop and drive' moment as we bid a quick tender goodbye to our boyo. He took a deep breath, flashed us that wondrous smile, and stepped away with long stride to begin his ministry. Godspeed, dear son. We love you 300.