Shorter timeline than we thought

The November Ensign just came, and the information from October conference regarding the earlier age for missionaries was detailed.  I hadn't realized that Matthew could submit his mission papers up to 120 days prior to when he would want to enter the MTC, and that he doesn't have to have his GED (since he was homeschooled for most of his life he won't be graduating from his high school) until he is ready to enter the MTC. 

What that means to Matthew is that he could possibly submit his papers as early as December 14th.  Wow, that just feels way too soon, but, maybe it's a good thing.  Matthew could be on his mission in June, which means not too much hanging out doing nothing time.  I've always said that year between 18 and 19 is far too tempting and dangerous for our young men.  Still, he's so young, it will be hard to let him leave.

We have a lot of preparing and thinking we have less than five months to do it in, well, guess that means we should get started as soon as Christmas is over.  He will need to meet with the Bishop first, to get his opinion and thoughts on the timeline and together they can make a reasonable game plan.  Some of his fellow Priests have already gotten their calls, and the momentum is going to continue.