first letter.

We received our first letter from Sam today. Here are some of the highlights:

"My companion is this big white boy from North Salt Lake. Elder Davies is a funny guy. I love him as my first companion so far. I have a district of people from all over. One from Porto Rico, one from New Zealand and another from Australia. I am hoping to become less shy and these guys help me a lot with a lot of things. It's unreal that I am here right now...but it's awesome. I like it here and am having to teach people in Cebuano (sp? I can't really read his writing...). I am so far behind, it is hard.... On a side note, I have some new nicknames here like Chad's "Jankie". Mine are Jeremy Lin or Elder J-Lin or Elder Jansi. All by my companion. The guy is funny. I can't wait to see everyone again, but my work is not done. Just started and I'm super excited!!! Tell everyone I miss them all. Also, tell Evie not to grow up too fast! I love you guys and miss you a lot! See you in 2 years!"

MTC Update.

Received my first email from Sammy today. He wanted me to post the following (misspellings and all!):

i am doing well and i love it here. the MTC is alot of fun! my companions are awsome and my district is the best! have had the best of times with them. they are funny guys. i miss my hawaii friends alot though. and i hope they are doing well. 

Elder J

Entering the MTC.

The time has arrived and Elder Sammy has entered the MTC. He received his call on Thursday, April 5th and was to report a short 6 weeks later on Wednesday, May 16th. Mom and Dad flew with him out to Utah to see him off. They got there a day early and enjoyed seeing the sights at Temple Square and around the Valley. 

Apparently it was pretty sunny because they weren't able to get a picture of them when one wasn't squinting:

 He was to report at 12:55pm so for his "last supper", he requested J Dawgs. Good choice in my book!

He had one last face time with his little Pippers:

...and then, THE DROP OFF:

Mom and Dad said it was very quick. They drove up to the curb where a "host" missionary was waiting and promptly aided them as they took Sam's bags out of the trunk. They gave Sammy a hug right before the missionary said "Welcome, Elder" and took him away. They said the whole thing lasted less than two minutes. You can only imagine how well this was probably handled by my mom (...it's safe to assume she was an emotional wreck). But, he is there! And we couldn't be more proud or excited for him.

Check back weekly for more updates on Elder Jansrikesorn!