Nugent Family

Jason’s mission call to the “Hungary-Budapest” mission is definitely a big event for him, but also in some ways for me.  His departure makes me the last one of my siblings left in the Valley.  The nine year gap between us seems to be shrinking as he is getting older.  I have relied on him for so many things: new music, movie reviews, someone to joke with, to play with my kids, to experiment in the kitchen with, to reach things for me when I can’t walk, and recently for priesthood blessings.  Alec keeps telling me he is going to show Jason something cool when he comes over next time.  My boy hasn’t quite gotten the “missionary-2 years” idea down yet. 

I was a wreck when my brother Chris left on his mission in 2001. (I’m glad I only have one boy to miss on a mission in about 14 years; it is seriously hard enough for me to let go of my brothers) I’ve been doing better with Jason’s absence, but every time I think about him I almost well up with tears.  It is not only because I miss him so much, but because I am so proud of him.  So much has happened to our family during his teenage years, and he weathered it beautifully.  He has become an intelligent, responsible, and spiritual young man; not to mention the coolest guy to hang out with.  He has given me so much.  Jason has much to offer the people of Hungary.  It blows my mind that he is going to be speaking Hungarian and living in Europe.

I can’t wait to hear from him.  I’m a little nervous that the “Dear Elder” thing isn’t working correctly.  Some of his emails have ended up in the spam folder.  I sent him snail mail; I hope he gets it.  I’m eager to get his report of the MTC.