EFY... first of many

Graham went to EFY in Rexburg, Idaho this summer! He had the time of his life. Not sure what we've been thinking letting all of these summers go without having sent him yet. I've heard it's a wonderful way to strengthen testimonies, make lasting friends, build confidence, etc. We talked about it on occasion but never made the move. It would either be the wrong time to spend the money or we would miss the registration deadline. Well, never again.

After spending a week with my dear friend in Oregon, she helped me to realize just how very important it would be. She motivated me to get on the computer and check out the status of the end of the summer sessions. I found an opening! In Idaho of all places. So I got on the horn and asked my dear sweet husband if he thought it was doable. After we agreed we would take the plunge, we went upstairs to talk with Graham. Now, mind you, I am in Oregon all this time. Mike and I were having this discussion via Facetime on the iPad (ah, technology.) So he 'carried' me upstairs and we asked Graham if he would like to fly out to Idaho for a fun-filled adventure. Uh, duh. He was pretty excited.

Man, was it worth every penny. Not only did he have the best and most spiritual experience of his life so far, he made friends, he learned the ins and outs of flying across the country alone, he learned how to hop a bus from SLC to Pocotello, he got to spend the evening with his great aunt, he got a t-shirt to bring home and most importantly, he discovered his new found love for BYU Idaho and it's campus. This ended up being way more appealing than any ol' college in Houston. He is pumped to apply to BYU Idaho and experience two whole semesters of 'real' college before heading off to serve his mission. Look out, we have an exciting future up ahead!!

When he walked up Sunday to bear his testimony about this week at EFY, I just about burst at the seams. It was the first time he has shared his testimony in Sacrament and it was definitely one for the books. Poor kid is definitely our guinea pig, but he has been such a very good one. We are so pleased with the choices he has made so far!

Guess who else will be attending EFY in the following years?! Yep, Zack and Maddie will have the pleasure of enjoying a week (or 2 or 3) of pure EFY goodness.

So for parents out there who've not crossed this bridge yet, start saving your pennies for this. It will be one of the most loving gestures you can offer your teen.