It's here! And he's off!

The day has arrived!  Joel finished his packing (after running to the store and buying another LARGE suitcase!) and cleaning up his room (aka leaving all his stuff for Mom to figure out what to do with).  His report time was 1:30.  We dropped David off to Kindergarten and made our way to Provo.  Ashley and Jacob were with us.  We had time to spare so we drove around Provo a little bit and then went on in to the MTC.  There were "Host" missionaries lined up and down the sidewalk.  They were all smiling and ready to help!  We got out, got Joel's luggage out, our host gave us a few minutes to take some pictures and say good bye, and then he was off!  Talk about drive thru drop off!  I handled it very well (reality still hasn't hit) and it's just so beautiful to see so many happy faces and know that your son is in good hands and is starting a wonderful adventure!  Good luck and goodbye messages are still pouring in.  We are so grateful for the outpouring of love that we have received. Joel will be a great missionary and we look forward to his first letters from the MTC!  Now, to go and make his bedroom into a guest room!  Gotta keep busy, right?  Farewell Elder McKinney...we love you!!