Entering the Missionary Training Center

We left Idaho Falls at 7 o'clock this morning for our southern trek to the MTC in Provo. The first half of the ride was rather quiet - a combination of sleepiness and anxiety. But by the time we met up with Jalayne near Logan, we were all rather excited and talkative. We reached Kaysville in time for Clark to have an early lunch at Kim's and to say farewell to his nephews.

Elliott, missionary uncle, and Quinn

Kim took the boys to a sitter and then joined us for the rest of our journey. The closer we got to Provo, the more excited Clark seemed to get. We arrived a little early, so Dan drove around the MTC campus and the temple and then to the apartments he and I were living in when we first met. We arrived at the MTC just before noon and joined hundreds of other families and new missionaries for our grand adventure.

Julie with her big brother

Clark checked in his luggage, received his mission tag and mailing address, and joined us in the foyer. We were then led to a chapel and, in fine Hatch tradition, were the first to enter so we, of course, sat on the first row. While we waited for the chapel to fill, we watched a combination of Church advertisements mixed in with some MTC trivia. (Did you know it takes 300 cows to provide the MTC with enough milk for the missionaries every day?)

Jalayne with her handsome missionary brother

A counselor in the MTC Presidency led a short program. We all sang "Called to Serve," (I learned that if I over-enunciated the words, it prevented my lips from quivering and kept my tear ducts from leaking), the counselor's wife shared some words of counsel, we watched a short video, and then prepared to say farewell. On the right side of the room was a sign reading "Missionaries Exit" and on the left, "Families Exit."

Kim's little brother - large in stature

We were reminded that saying "goodbye" is a lot like removing a band-aid. The quicker you do it, the less painful it is. And so we each gave Clark one last hug. He looked at the doorway for missionaries. No one had entered yet. He didn't want to be the first one, so he lingered for just a moment and then said, "I guess I'll be first." He gave us all a big smile and disappeared through the door.

Proud Mom and Dad with Clark

Since Clark's departure, I have reflected on the many people who have helped him to prepare him for this day - from his good bishop and dedicated youth leaders and seminary teachers to his amazing circle of friends and family members. And I am grateful to the hundreds of volunteers at the MTC who will teach, lead, feed, and direct my son and to his mission president who is waiting "with open arms" to welcome him to Italy. "With blessings unmeasured, my cup runneth o'er."