Two years older, and ten years wiser....

The best news of last week?  Elder Alan Nebeker, my youngest brother, returned from being a missionary in Atlanta, Georgia.  He spent two years teaching of Jesus Christ, helping build stronger families, speaking Spanish, and learning about himself.  Apparently Atlanta was expecting him:

Alan, much to his torment, is not only the youngest of six kids, he is also the shortest and narrowest of the boys.  If he was hoping to increase in size while away from home, his hopes were dashed when the suitcoat he left with still easily fit on his return.  However, when he wore that suitcoat to church, it was clear our "baby" brother had grown up.  He learned to rely on God, love people, serve others, and testify of what really matters- faith and family.  I have to say, it was an impressive spiritual growth spurt.  Well done, little bro.

ADDED BONUS
Everybody else was so excited to have Alan home, most of the Nebekers made it to Merced to celebrate! (Lindsey was excused as she's supposed to be having a baby any minute.)   This is the actual welcome party:

But the party doesn't stop there!  We also celebrated Rachel and Emma's 6th birthday, went to the waterslides, took the boat out to the lake, had a long string of airport mishaps, honored the fathers and granfathers in the bunch, and even had a visit from G&G Adamson.  If I started posting pictures now, you'd be here all night- so instead, I'll just say: Nothing beats being a Nebeker!