In July we went on a trip to Nauvoo to visit the church history sites. In total we drove around 3,200 miles. We were gone 11 days. Amazingly enough, it was a wonderful trip and we made a lot of great memories. Mike's mom Jeri came with us and we met his brother Chris and his family in Nauvoo. The kids behaved very well and all the driving really wasn't that bad. Here are some of my favorite pictures, in no particular order.
The kids had a blast swimming in the hotel pools.
We bribed the little boys a dollar to get them to finally take a nap while on the road. Hey, you don't have to pay me. I would do it for free anytime.
Gotta love the contraption I figured out to keep his head from falling forward. It really worked but did need adjusting from time to time.
July 12, 2013 Remembering Ryan in Nauvoo
A carnival was held before the Nauvoo pageant. The kids and adults had fun trying different activities that were done back in the 1800's. Mike actually did really good on the stilts.
Alex pulling the kiddies via handcart.
We went on a covered wagon ride pulled by oxen. Oxen, by the way, are just big cows that have been trained. It was bumpy, but fun. We were told that the naughty children had the job of cleaning bugs out of the oxen's noses. I wonder which one of my kids would get that job. It would vary ever day I am sure.
At Winter Quarters in Nebraska the kids dressed as pioneers and pulled a handcart. "Howdy Ladies."
Carthage with the Lotts. It was humbling to be in the same room that our dear prophet Joseph Smith lost his life. We were able to see the gunshot holes that were in the original door.
Ethan trying out the stilts with the help of a big brother.
Adamondiahman
I think this quote was at Liberty jail. It is a good reminder to us all and gives me so much to look forward to. It is worth it!!!!
This was at a park in Kansas City. When we got up close it wasn't so pretty. There was duck poop everywhere. Gross.
Adam and Mike sawing a log. I am on the other side helping Ethan saw the log with his uncle Chris.
Adam on a little wooden sheep. We learned how to make yarn from wool.
The beautiful Nauvoo Temple. Jaime and Alex were able to do baptisms for the dead while we were there. It was Jaime's first time. It was a very special experience to witness. I don't doubt Ryan was there proudly watching from above.
What Ethan bought from the gift shop. It didn't surprise me one bit.
Winter Quarters- Aren't they cute!!!
It was a great trip. We learned a lot. My respect and love grew so much for those that came before us and dedicated their lives to building up the Kingdom of God on the earth. They sacrificed so much and had so much faith.
