January 31, 2010

Nick had to double-check his list and get everything bought and packed that was on it. He was busy packing for most of the day and he had to go to the store for some last minute things and get stuff for the family.
One thing that has been a little scary is that there is supposed to be bad weather the next couple of days. Mom felt strongly that we should get Nick set apart tonight. Of course, that meant that Nick didn't get a chance to say goodbye to everyone that he would have liked to. I am sorry to those of you that happened to but we didn't realize that the weather would be as bad as the weather reports are now reporting.
We all got dressed in our Sunday best and we went to a restaurant in Dallas called Rafain’s. This is a restaurant of Brazilian foods and meats. It was delicious and we probably ate way too much again! I really enjoyed the meats but they also had delicious cheese bread and friend bananas. They also had yummy desserts and we all got the guarana (Brazilian pop) that we love so much!
After dinner, we drove to President Alleman’s house. I still cannot say how much I love that man! He took Nick aside to give him another interview while we talked to Sister Alleman. President Alleman returned and asked dad to stand with him and set Nick apart. My brother is now Elder Nicholas Evan Hope. President Alleman said some strong things in his blessing but he made some strong promises. He promised Nick that if he followed the mission rules, he would be safe. He also promised him that he would have trials and difficult companions but that he could overcome them with the Lord’s help.
I talked to Nick afterwards about the promise that if he would follow the counsel of his mission president, he would be safe. I told Nick that it reminded me of the time that he went to high adventure and he listened to Bishop Platt and didn’t cliff dive even though he wanted to. Bishop Platt later told Nick that if he had not listened, Nicholas would have been seriously injured. I told Nick that he was blessed for following his leaders.
I am grateful that Nicholas is ready to serve a mission in Porto and I know that he is worthy. He loves the Lord and the Lord can do much good with him.