Our beloved Jake is going to be leaving us for two years. Although he will be SO ridiculously missed, we are all so proud of him. What other 19 your old kid do you know who will put their life on hold to go and be completely selfless for two years? He leaves a boy, but will come back a man. Nice work Jake — and thank you for the terrific example.
It all started on August 23rd when we all went through the temple with him.
Then 3 days later, we went down to his ward to listen to his farewell talk. I especially loved the part where he gave me a shout out, “I always love when my Aunt Lindsey tells her kids ‘Denisons do hard things’”. After saying that, he looked at me with a huge smile, and I might have secretly raised the roof a little in response.
After church, we headed to their home and spent the day eating, hanging out and loving our last day with Jake.
It just so happened to be my birthday, and it was easily the best birthday I have had in years — surrounded by those I love and celebrating something so awesome. (Jake — not me!)
I love the bib that Megan got Dash.
It looks just right!
I created the “missionary tree” in their backyard. The rule is — if you go on a mission, you get your name carved in the tree. Bryan, thank you for letting me deface your tree.
A lot of our lazy afternoon was spent lounging around with Dash (who is really living up to his name lately).
Navy was on the go — and has about every cousin at her beck and call.
Scout was impressing us all with his climbing skills.
Once we got Dash out of his church get up, we put him in a big t shirt. I have said it before and I will say it again — I love a kid in an over-sized t!
-
As the day wore on, and the night drew near, we were all hating the fact that we needed to say our goodbyes. And we were all fine until Jake choked up, and then everyone lost it.
Scout is going to miss Jake “who always plays”.
Navy is going to miss Jake, her “favorite guy”.
We will all miss him a ton, but couldn’t be happier with how he has lived his life up until now. I cross my fingers that Scout and Dash (and Navy) grow up to be just like him. Determined, Self motivated, hard working, honest, kind, happy, BUT MOSTLY good. Good to the core.
-
We love you Jake, and can’t wait to see you in two years!
| DESIGN BY