Johnsons Together Forever: First Missionary Package

Our Life As We Know It

Allen and I have been married for 21 years and have been truly blessed. We have five amazing (some what crazy) boys. We are extremely involved with our church, scouting, and sports. We love camping, hunting, four wheeling and family adventures. I am grateful we are close and enjoy spending time with each other. I can only hope that continues in the future. I am so excited to see what the future holds for my sweet, handsome men. I am thankful that Heavenly Father entrusted them in my care. I will always be very humble and grateful...and I pray that I will always "enjoy the journey".

Where Our Story Began

Was it by a Heavenly Father's Design we met when and where we did. I look back at all the choices we had and by his hand we met and simply put "the rest is history"!! I remember when we first met, as I passed him on the stair case at our High School... he stopped and turned around as I went up the stairs. Our story is not out of the ordinary but it is our story!! We had hurdles and bumps but all in all... we made it through five years of dating, and all that comes with that! The common element that bound us Eternally is the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I'm grateful for his plan... our story began a long time ago... but our Earthly journey here, is well underway. Thanks for being part of our lives... thanks for sharing our story.

Life of Boys

Michael is 18 and is happy he is a Senior. He is ready for his future "life" and ready to move on. He is an Eagle Scout and is excited for his mission this year. He is a GREAT kid ... he is a hard worker and so "very" focused. Cody is 16 and a fly by the seat of your pants kinda kid. He loves to horse around and hang out with his friends. He is on the final step of getting his Eagle paperwork done. He is fun-loving and loves life. Justin is a funny kid. He is my one that is constantly joking around and dosen't take life too seriously... he has his quirks like: has to be on time, plans everything, and dosen't like surprises. He is always grateful for everything. He is my one that ALWAYS gives me a hug. Tanner is the sweetest kid you'll find. (His brother might disagree) His eyes are piercing and always have been. He smiles through his eyes. He gets emotional when watching movies. He has a sweet spirit. He loves sports and would play for the love of the sport all his life. He is a fun-loving kid. Matthew is the love of everyones life!! He brings great joy into our family with a little dose of attitude. He is our miracle and we understand that. He is adored by all and completes our sweet, amazing, crazy family circle!!!

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

First Missionary Package

Dear Elder Michael Allen Johnson,

Well, we just got home from setting your apart to be an Elder for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. What an exciting night it was and what a journey you are on! I'm so thankful I'm along for the ride and wonderful journey you are about to embark upon! Exciting time for sure! I loved your blessing tonight you gave me. It made me feel really calm and at peace. Not that I wasn't before but just that now...I'm extra at ease and feel so confident that you are well on your way to be an exceptional missionary! Will I miss you...absolutely ...but no place I would rather you be than EXCTLY, right were you are! How awesome you must feel, the first!! I'm so thankful you were the oldest in our family. You have set a great example to your younger brothers, for sure! Just like Matt said, when I get older can I go with you on a mission? Already the seed has been planted by a righteous older brother!

I know we will shed tears tomorrow but they will be tears of great gratitude to our Heavenly Father for allowing us to have these amazing opportunities in our lives! How blessed you are to be able to share your testimony with others. To show them, lead them and help them recognize the Holy Ghost in their lives! I know I will cry...but lately just overwhelmed with the love and kindness shown to you and my sweet family! We have been blessed son...beyond measure!

Surely you know I will miss you, tons!! But like President Messer said, "Don't look back, they will be fine". We will, you know that! I'm expecting great things from you...just share with us everything...the good and the bad! Because expect you will have bumps...but you've had bumps before...and handled them extremely well! It will make the sweet all that much sweeter! I do look forward to your letters, as I write this...I'm already longing to hear your testimony, thoughts and experiences on paper!

You are amazing just the way you are...but this mission is going to strengthen your foundation in our Savior so much! Bring you so much closer to him and your Heavenly Father. I do know he is very aware of our situation and is so very proud of you and we're you are headed. Hold to the Rod, be obedient and work hard... When times get tough turn to your Heavenly Father...he is always there and always listening!

Till we meet again my son ...I love you, I adore you, be safe and remember it is always better to look up!!

Love Always,
Your Mom