Back to California for Elder Wilde, Sr., Homecoming

Two days before Christmas, our second oldest grandson, Bracken (or Elder Wilde, Sr.) had returned to his home in California after serving faithfully for two years on his Mormon Mission to Australia Sydney North Mandarin Chinese Speaking.  Although we couldn't be there the exact day he came home, I am including some of the pictures his family took:

The air flight from Sydney to Los Angeles took 14 1/2 hours total.  However, that didn't happen Elder Wilde's excitement when he finally arrived in Los Angeles and saw his Aunt Bethany and her three children waiting there to be the first to greet him in the U.S. 

 After a lay-over there in LA, he was on his final lap home.  As he came into the San Francisco Airport, he was greeted by lots of screams (mostly by his mother), and lots of hugs by all.  That was one happy greeting!

 Elder Wilde absolutely loved Australia and the people there.

 It was extremely difficult taking off his badge after being released from his missionary work by his Stake President.  It was a very emotional time for him because he loved being a missionary and serving the Lord and the people in Australia.

For Christmas, Bracken (formerly Elder Wilde, Sr.) had this framed and gave it to his parents:  His pocket from one of his white shirts, his planning book he used for his two years, and one of his badges that he wore.  They loved it!  Such a thoughtful and special gift!

On Sunday, December 27, 2015, we all got ready to go to the Sacrament Meeting we had all been looking forward--to where Bracken would be reporting about his two-year mission. 

Bracken and his mother, who couldn't be more proud and excited that he is home.

Bracken and his Grandpa Copeland

Not only did Bracken have to speak in his own ward, he, also, had to speak in the ward that he left from, as well as do a special question and answer hour with the youth.  He was really a busy young man--but he did such a marvelous job and really touched everyone's hearts.  He, also, bore his testimony in Chinese in his own ward.  

Bracken and his family--minus Parker (Elder Wilde, Jr.) who is currently serving his two-year mission in the Pennsylvania Philadelphia Mission.

Later on that evening--a wonderful open house was held for family and friends to attend to welcome Bracken home.

Grandpa George and Bracken getting a good laugh out of something!

Roscoe definitely wants to be part of the party!

The friend of the Wilde's who has a catering business came and set everything up and made such wonderful items for the open house.  Everything was truly delicious.  Notice that she even made the Australian flag out of little cupcakes.

Australian flag with little Australian sayings, plus cities on the little markers.  She is so clever!

And the plaque that has hung for two years in the hallway of the church has now been retired and will be a remembrance of two years that most every missionary says were "the best two years of my life!"  I'm sure Bracken can say the same--and now he is on to new challenges and adventures.  Within a week from getting home, he will be starting college as a Sophomore at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah.  Best wishes, Bracken!  You have served so well and can be so proud of all your hard work!  We love you dearly!