I just had to post this! - It's Mikes' 20th Birthday and he is fortunate enough to be serving the Lord in Florianopolis Brazil this year.... Here is a picture of moms' "Wall-o-Mike". It started out as a map of Brazil, and slowly morphed into this collaboration of people we don't know and events we've missed... but as you can tell, the light is bright in the faces of those who serve the Lord. It has always amazed me at how the Lord can take a 19 year old boy and give him the opportunity and experience that will benefit him for the rest of his life in just 2 short years.
These are the amazing parents that are beaming from ear-2-ear whenever the "Wall-o-Mike" brings on a conversation of the latest updates and news! Every Monday when/if the inbox has a letter from a missionary, they are thrilled! They have been so thoughtful and prayerful in supporting Michael and it's a reward in their lives to know he is working hard and giving all he has.
We were able to speak with Elder Mike on Christmas Day - It was a real treat to hear his voice and share the events of Christmas with him. He was speaking Portuguese with Daenon and has come along well in his first 7 months. He's excited about the opportunities and experiences that the Lord has in store for him, and says: "its' been the hardest and the most rewarding experience of my life so far!" - He said that he walks "about 5 miles on a slow day, comes home eats a banana and go to bed!" He's been fortunate to be in his first area for a few months and has really enjoyed getting to know the people. They've had quite a few marriages and baptisms and there's always a birthday party invite too. We've loved the pictures he's sent home and the letters/emails even the short ones are enjoyable! We've had a good laugh over the mail system and the challenge of sending packages to him... but it's the thought that counts - Right? :)
Happy 20th Birthday Elder Millyard!
We Love you!
Labels: Elder Millyard
