MTC

Steve went into the MTC yesterday. It was so neat to see how excited and nervous he was. And my dad was so proud. He doesn't say a lot, but we've learned to read facial expressions a little bit, and I think he's very happy about Steven's decision to go.
On Tuesday night, Steven got set apart and the Stake President asked my parents to share their testimonies. Jill and I sort of held our breath as Dad started talking because he doesn't like to be put on the spot. We expected something really short and nervous, but it was so perfect! He talked about how there are a lot of conversion stories in his family history, and how much he enjoys spending time with his family, and of course that the church and Book of Mormon are true. It was a wonderful family moment. It shows how much he loves Steve that he would do that.
At the MTC we checked in his luggage and then he went in one door to get his nametag, and we went in the other door and met back up with him. My mom put his nametag on him, and started getting a little shaky. She was very strong though. She cries a lot usually, but yesterday she didn't cry all that much. She and Steve went to the temple on Tuesday morning and they were both amazed by how calm they felt when they came out. They said that all their nerves were calmed and they felt so much more prepared. (What a relief for all of us! Just teasing, Mom!) Then we took a few pictures in the lobby. The one of my dad and Steve by the book in the glass case is, I believe, the first printed copy of the Book of Mormon. My mind was sort of elsewhere, so if that is incorrect, I apologize. After that we headed down to The Room, where we listened to a couple of speakers and watched a short movie about the MTC. My favorite part was when the sister who was speaking said that the elders would be leaving the arms of their mothers and entering the arms of their Savior. After that, we stood up, gave him big hugs and told him we love him, and then he gave us a huge smile and ran for the door! Yes, ran. I told you he was excited. I hope he his loving his companion and having a good time. I can't wait for letters to start coming!
From now on, the postings will be copies of his letters, not my commentary, so keep watching to hear how he is doing!
Thank you all from Steve and his family for your love and support!