Pictures from drop-off day

We live in Alabama and didn't fly out with Katie to drop her off at the MTC. However my parents and my sister Liesl and her family live in the area so they were able to take over that part.

The night before she went to the MTC, Katie had a going away party at her grandparents' house. Lots of her friends were able to come say goodbye - some even stayed around long enough to have their pictures taken!

The next day she went to lunch with her Opa and Nana Smith, aunt Liesl Buskirk and cousin Leah.

Then it was time to head off to the MTC. Here is Katie, with the two suitcases she had to fit everything she'll need for the next 18 months into. It wasn't easy!

Katie and her 2nd cousin Sarah Hafen met randomly in a science class a few years ago in a fluke that might never have happened (and because our family has lived all over the country we barely have time to visit first cousins, much less second cousins) but we're so glad they did! They've become great friends, and Sarah (after having stayed at the party till WAY later than was probably wise the night before) managed to get to the MTC to see Katie on her way.

Two elders were on hand to help Katie with her luggage, and this was the last sight of her as she entered the MTC. They used to do a family reception type thing but stopped that a few years back, so it's goodbye at the curb and off they go! Ciao, Katie!