Back to School

It's back to school time for my kids. Actually they have
been in school now for 2 weeks. There is one in
elementary, one in intermediate school,
and one in high school. So far things have been
good, with the exception of a couple of teachers
that might be crazy, but hey, what's a school year
without a crazy teacher?!:)

Gage 10th grade

Noah 6th grade

Maddie 4th grade

50th Wedding Anniversary

Today my parents celebrate their 5oth anniversary.
They might not like that I posted these pictures of them, but I love the photos.
I am so proud of them. To be married for all those years is amazing. They have
been wonderful parents and great examples to me and my family. I wish them
many more happy years!

Independence, Missouri

My parents left 2 weeks ago for a mission to Independence, Missouri. They spent one week in the MTC and truly enjoyed the experience. They even met some friends who were going to the same mission. They left there and spent almost 1 week traveling to their destination of the mission home in Independence, all the time not knowing exactly where they would be serving. On their rode trip they were able to visit church history sites along the way. They are now in Kansas as MLS (member, leadership support). They are still in limbo without a place to live and not really knowing what to do. There wasn't a place set up for them to live so they have spent the last 3 days looking for somewhere to rent. It has proved difficult, but they are determined to make the best of things and optimistic that something will "turn up". I am so proud of them for setting the example for my family, their grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. I am sure they will do an awesome job with whatever comes their way.

Midwest Church History

Last year Mike and I went on the Eastern church history tour starting in New York and ending in Kirtland, Ohio. This year we were able to go on the 2nd half starting in Independence, Missouri and ending in Winter Quarters, Nebraska. What a great experience it was to go where the early church pioneers were. I could only imagine how they felt and the trials they went through to be able to worship how they wanted. I am thankful for their determination and love of the Gospel in paving the way for all of us that came after them.

Liberty jail, Adam-Ondi-Ahman, Far West Temple site & cornerstones

Carthage Jail-notice the bullet hole still in the door. This
was one of my favorite places on the tour.

Nauvoo Temple (my favorite place), Bee House (Joseph & Hyrum's bodies were hidden under this house for a time), Smith Family Cemetery where Joseph,
Hyrum & Emma Smith are buried

Mississippi River (it's amazing this huge river froze over
so the saints could cross with wagons), Mt. Pisgah the first white settlement
where the saints stayed for a time on the journey out West,
Edward Partridge the first presiding bishop, Tharpe cemetery

Winter Quarters Temple, Bronze pioneer statues in Omaha, Nebraska