...a note from Mom

I have tried to not offer too much in the way of opinions or clarifications as I have faithfully posted Parker's letters on this blog.  As we near the end though I feel like I just need to share a quick note because I am having a hard and emotional time posting his last letter.

Everyone says that these two years have gone by so fast and they can hardly believe that he is coming home.  I, on the other hand feel that it has crawled by.  I missed him so much at first then realized the amazing things he was accomplishing and was happy to sacrifice our years with him for the better.  It is truly a miracle to watch Parker and other boys his age; give up everything to go and serve the Lord for two years.  It is a miracle for these youth to survive high school and be worthy enough in our church standards to participate in a mission.  We, as his parents are just proud that he had let his faith grow enough to get that mission call.  The growth that he has realized the last two years is an added bonus that we couldn't fathom when he left.  He has truly grown into a man who is righteous, caring and loves the Lord.

We thank so many people, mainly friends, grandparents, great church leaders, teachers, coaches and seminary teachers who helped us raise him.  Being able to serve in Montana for two years has blessed so many people; him, us, the people of Montana, etc.  How grateful we are for all of those who have helped him financially, emotionally, and the prayers that you all have offered.  We can't thank you enough; but please know that we do indeed thank you.  We are filled with gratitude for all of you. We also thank the people who have cared for our son in Montana.  We know that you feed him, love him, listen to him and pray for him also.  Thank you!!

We know that Parker doesn't want to come home and has truly caught the vision of life itself and the purpose of our lives and the importance of Jesus Christ.  We would love it if he could come home, eat lunch with us and spend an afternoon telling us his stories, then return to Montana.  That isn't how it works though; he needs to come home and accomplish other things.  We will miss his letters and miss sharing his stories and fun wit with those of you not in our own home!  We must say, he is just as entertaining at home if not more, and if anyone ever needs a good laugh...come by our house anytime that he is home.  He IS the life of the party around here. 

As I close, I want family and friends who are reading this to know that I also have great love for our Savior.  I know that he lived and died for all of us.  I know that the gospel that he established in the New Testament times has been restored to this earth.  I "stand all amazed" that I have two sons who can go into the world as representatives of Jesus Christ to teach the world about his great plan of happiness.  Being a mother of missionaries is icing on the cake of motherhood.

So.....I will post the last letter from Parker and close out this "blog"

Love, Jill (and Dave) Heywood