There is something special about watching a missionary come home. Don't you agree? I remember when my older brother Dan came home from his mission like it was yesterday. We had never welcomed a missionary home before. We were so excited, standing there in the terminal. I remember lots of smiles, laughter and anticipation. Finally the passengers began to disembark and suddenly those smiles faded into big, watery tears. I looked around at my brothers and sisters. We were all crying. We hadn't expected this. It was a spontaneous and sweet reaction to the fulfillment of a long-anticipated moment. This moment with sibling No. 7 was no different. We've been praying for Doug's success as a missionary and for a safe return these past two years. Each week brought another letter and more incredible growth. Though we will miss having a missionary out and the special spirit that brings, w
e are thrilled that he is home again. Congratulations on a job WELL DONE, Dougie! You are so loved.
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Doug's flight arrived at 11:30 p.m. Not exactly the ideal time but the kids were troopers. Little Briggs slept through the entire thing!
The welcoming committee -
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Mom & Dad
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Jeff & Cutter
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Caroline, Mark & Johnny
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Juliette
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Sherm & Briggs
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Beth & Mark
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Cutter & Katelyn
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Bellamie?
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Dan, Dad, Mike, Sherm & Jeff
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Baby Durham!
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Bellamie, Cache & Brooklyn
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Here he comes!
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Happy tears!
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The proud family (minus Brian, Joanna, Eli, Tyler and baby Freddie)