DAY 1 - September 16, 2015 (8:00 p.m. MST)

So. . . Sis. Nielsen left today on her mission. We talked to her from Newark while she waited to board her final plane to Manchester, England. From there she takes a train to Preston, England where the  MTC is. This will be her home for at least the next couple of weeks. We will wait to here that she has arrived safely, then fall into a deep and worry-free sleep. (This, at least, is the plan! We'll see if it really happens that way).
I've so many mixed emotions about seeing her go this morning: Pride (you know, the "good kind"), excitement, anticipation for all the adventures she'll have, and of course . . . worry, nervousness, sadness (saying good-bye stinks). . . the list goes on.
The mom voice in my head pleading - "Please someone just love her and give her a chance. She's the best and has such a sweet message to share".  Mom voice continuing, "Lord, I'm sacrificing time with one of the best people I've ever known, for you.  Please keep her safe and let her be happy." Is that putting too much condition on my "sacrifice"? I think it's a fair request.
Hearing her voice on the phone and the excitement with which she exclaimed, "I saw the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and the Brooklyn Bridge." "They're real!!!!" This made my heart swell because she has never been any further east than Wyoming.
Anyway, I KNOW she is in good hands. I KNOW she will be blessed. I KNOW the people in England who give her a chance and listen to the message she brings will be blessed, and this knowledge holds my heart together.
I thank my Father in Heaven for giving me an opportunity to watch this little daughter of ours grow into the beautiful young woman she is. I ask Him to continue to watch over her. I KNOW she is excited and ready to do His will. This knowledge is enough for me.
Love you Anna (Sis. Nielsen). GO FORTH WITH FAITH!!!!!  And never forget all who are back home loving and praying for you!!!!!