Thursday, July 24, 2008

MTC Address

Paul's address while at the MTC:
Elder Paul L. Rasmussen
Brazil Brasilia Mission
Box # 42 District # 30 A
Rua Padre Antonio D'Angelo 121
Casa Verde, Sao Paulo SP
BRAZIL 02516-040
This address can be used until about Sept. 10.

Leaving on a Jet Plane

Paul was to report to the MTC on July 23, but he had to leave on July 22--at 6:00 a.m.!!! Which meant being at the airport at the very early hour of 4:00. He flew from Las Vegas to Miami, Florida. He had a 7 hour layover in Miami, and was supposed to meet up with other missionaries flying to Brazil. The layover was made 2 hours longer with flight delays!!! He did call from Miami to let us know he had made it that far without problem. He landed in Sao Paulo on the morning of July 23--over 24 hours in airplanes and airports!

Leaving home.









We received an e-mail from the Brazil MTC President informing us that Elder Rasmussen has arrived. He has a companion and room and will be well taken care of.

Please remember Paul in your prayers as he learns Portuguese and how to be an effective missionary. We appreciate your support.

The Last Sunday before Brazil

Sunday, July 20 was a wonderful day. Paul was scheduled to speak in Sacrament meeting and had an appointment to be set apart as a full time missionary. Although all of our children wanted to be together, for obvious reasons, not all of them could come. Liz sent her love from Milan, Italy. Ammon and Kirsten, and Becca and LeGrand sent their love from Columbus, Ohio. But they also sent a very special surprise for Paul. WHITNEY!!! Whitney was visiting in Columbus and had already said her good-bye to Paul, but Ammon and Kirsten thought that she really should be home for these last few days. So on Saturday at midnight, they decided to fly Whitney home. She landed in Las Vegas at 9 am Sunday morning. Paul was delighted!!!!



Paul spoke in Sacrament Meeting on the topic of Love--Heavenly Father's love for His children, and our love for Him and each other. That is why Paul wants to serve a mission--he loves God and wants others to know of God's love for them.


Our home was full of loved ones who came to wish Paul well. Thanks to everyone who came to show their support for Paul. We love having you here.









These two incredible women have done so much to help Paul grow to the man he is. Grandma Larsen and Grandma Rasmussen show their love in so many ways. Aren't they so cute!!







Pres. Ken Asay and Bishop John Erickson and their wives came to our home to set Paul apart. His dad, and brothers Stewart and Seth were able to join in giving the blessing. These are some men who have had a tremendous influence on Paul.








Set apart as a missionary!!! Ready to go!!!













Endowed with Power

As soon as Paul received his mission call, he made arrangements to go through the temple. He received his endowment in the Provo Temple on Friday April 4, and attended as often as possible. Keeping with family tradition, he was able to go on a couple of "temple trips" with his family, as well as to the New York Manhatten, before leaving for his mission.