And then there was one...

Hailey Eliza Tebbs was set apart as a missionary for the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Tuesday evening, May 20.  We now refer to her as Sister Tebbs.  In addition to our Stake President, Sister Tebbs invited Grammy & Papa Milne and her friend Hannah, who will be serving a mission soon, to join our family for her setting apart.  It was a very emotional evening and we were all able to share the many things we admire about Sister Tebbs and why we think she will be a successful missionary.  

Wednesday, May 21--MTC drop-off day.  Suitcases packed and room cleaned.  Sister Tebbs did an amazing job fitting everything in for the next 18 months in Nashville.

Her hardest goodbye was to Cooper...

Since the drop-off at the MTC is so quick and you don't get much privacy, we opted to go up to the Provo Temple prior to her 1:15 pm scheduled arrival time.

Didn't realize we color-coordinated our outfits until people commented on Instagram and Facebook :)

We all thought John would have the toughest time saying goodbye but after Sister Tebbs was set apart, he said "It's GO time" and never looked back.

Grayson probably had the hardest time of all.  They have their own language (sloosh), enjoy movie night sleepovers regularly and Grayson practiced his driving with her.  They had matching friendship bracelets made (see below) that they promised to wear until she returns.

I am living proof that it's no easier saying goodbye to a 2nd missionary in the family.  I'd been blubbering for two days prior whenever anyone asked me about her and Wednesday was an extremely emotional day for me.  It didn't help that she had beautiful hand-written letters waiting for each of us when we returned home from the MTC.  I sure appreciated all the nice comments, texts, visits and treats I received which helped immensely.  This daughter of mine is a true jewel and her void will be deeply felt.

Sister Tebbs truly is ready and excited to serve in the Tennessee Nashville Mission for the next 18 months and I know she'll be an amazing missionary!