Safe in the Philippines!

The last few days have been exciting. Nate is in Japan working on disaster relief, and Elder Joe is finally in the Philippines.
On Monday, the missionaries heading to the Philippines departed around 4:30. We were hopeful to hear from Elder Leishman quickly upon arrival, but that was not the case. He finally called at around 7:15. He sounded awesome. Everyone had a chance to visit on the phone including Grammie Margie, minus Emma who was at rehearsal, and Nate in Japan (and Jeffrey was doing his shy thing). He seemed relaxed and happy to answer questions, but not offering a lot. He sounded happy. Nate was actually en route from Sendai to Tokyo when the first call took place, so we asked Joe to call in SF as well.
When the phone rang at 12:15 AM, everyone here was asleep. I kept the phone by my bed and quickly woke up Emma. She was so happy to talk to Joe. I think out of everyone, she misses him the most. I had a few moments to visit with him, but the phone cut off, and we never reconnected. However, Nate was able to visit for about 20 minutes in Tokyo and they enjoyed a nice chat!
Today is Wednesday, and when I checked my email this morning, there was an email from Elder Joe's mission mom, Sister Puzey. She said he had arrived healthy, happy, and ready to work. Sister Puzey also said he would be loved and taken care of.
We are grateful he is finally there, and probably on his way to his first apartment right now. We love and miss him, but most of all, we are excited about these next two years. How blessed we are!