Two Years Ago...

Two years ago today I was freaking out because I entered the MTC the next day. Two years ago today I was busily packing my suitcases that would contain my life for the next 18.5 months. Two years ago today I was spending all the time I could with my family. Two years ago today I played out on the lawn with my puppy because I knew that the next time I'd see him he'd be huge. Two years ago today I was set apart as a missionary. Two years ago today I turned 21.

If I weren't a member of the Church, I would have been of legal age to drink (haha...like I would. YUCK!) But because I am a member of the Church, I was finally old enough to go out and preach the Gospel as a missionary. And boy was I excited and ready to leave. I was excited for all of the people I'd meet, and the new things I would get to experience.

Now, two very short years later, it all seems like a dream. Was it really just two years ago that I left on my mission? Was it really just two years? It all seems so hard to believe. The experiences I have had over the past two years have been incredible. They have changed me...definitely for the better. They have truly shaped me into the woman who I want to be. They have helped me to learn things that I need to know to be stronger. I have learned how much I really can withstand in terms of the storms of life, and how I can overcome the trials that are put in my path. Really, I wouldn’t have it any other way.