The day Sam came home from his LDS mission to Arizona was nothing short of incredible—one of those days that settles deep into your heart and stays there.
Nate, John, and I left early for Calgary, our excitement building with every mile. We arrived at the airport at the exact same time Abby and Jessica were landing from Edmonton. The timing felt like a small miracle. Together, we made our way to the international gate, joining the Bultsma family, since Sam and Brooke were both coming home on the same flight. There was a sense of shared anticipation in the air—families united by love, pride, and a whole lot of emotion.
Aside from a brief moment when security almost kicked us out for gathering in the wrong spot (apparently joy can be a little disruptive 😄), the pickup itself was flawless.
And then Sam walked through.
It was so good to see him. He had such joy on his face—real, settled joy. He looked people in the eye. He was present, intentional, and genuinely attentive to every single person he spoke with. Watching him interact, it was impossible not to feel inspired. This wasn’t just our Sam returning home; this was a young man who had been shaped, refined, and strengthened by two years of devoted service.
After the airport, we headed to Olive Garden for lunch—a perfect place to sit, breathe, laugh, and soak it all in. Saying goodbye to Abby and Jessica was hard, but with finals the very next day, there was no other choice. We parted ways with hugs and full hearts.
The four of us—Sam, Nate, John, and I—then returned home, where Sam was officially released by President Ferguson. That moment felt sacred. Two years of faithful service brought to a close, and a new chapter beginning.
God is good.
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