Sink or Swim Time!

Elder Birks headed to Houston, Texas Tuesday morning and we spoke with him briefly when he called home from the airport. He sounded great and it was so nice to hear his voice. We just wish we could have talked longer!

Late Tuesday night we got an email and picture from his mission president's wife. It sounds like he is in very good hands and he looks very happy to be in Houston!

Here is the email:
Dear parents,

We are pleased to let you know that your missionary has arrived safely in the Texas Houston South Mission, the best mission in the world! They are happy and absolutely wonderful. President Saylin and I are thrilled to welcome them. We had a terrific afternoon and evening together. They received some training and talked with people on the streets of Houston. We also had dinner together and then we enjoyed a beautiful testimony meeting as well. They come with such courage and strength. You should be very proud of them.

I attached a photo from our gathering tonight in the mission home. As you can see, there are many smiles. We have seven children. Four of our children are pictured and the three boys are currently at scout camp. Our youngest is 13 months and our oldest is 17 years and just graduated from high school. They love being a part of your missionary's life!

Again, thank you for the opportunity you have given us to serve with these fine missionaries. We love them already and promise to take good care of them. May you find great joy and blessings as you continue to support them in bringing souls to Christ through His restored gospel. This is His work and these missionaries are on His errand. More joy awaits them than they have ever experienced!

With love,
President and Sister Saylin

ps. P-days are on Monday and is also the day they will write/receive email. If they are assigned to Galveston Island, however, their email day will be Tuesday. I know they will love hearing from you each week.