Nauvoo, IL.
So much to say I don't even know where to start, what an amazing trip!! I never expected to learn and feel so much from one place. We feel soo lucky to have been able to make this trip and enjoy the experiences which came from being there. I gained such a great respect and a better understanding of what people went through to bring the Church to the hearts of the people.

If we look cold that would be because it was only -4 outside! Unbelievable that the Saints lived here and traveled during this bone chilling weather; what an amazingly strong group of people.
A replica of the wagons they used during their relocation due to religious persecution. Can you believe they used those wagons to cross the frozen river below??
Behind us is the Mississippi River, frozen over. Yes, those are gynormous sheets of ice washed ashore when the river began freezing. I have never seen such a thing!

Joseph Smith and Brigham Young. What amazing men to aspire to become like. With their strength and courage we stand beside them hoping we can someday be closer to them.

As I'm sure you can see, we had an amazing week being in Nauvoo and St. Louis. We had experiences we never imagined and being there while it is sooo cold, there were only a few other tourists so we were able to receive very personal tours by the missionaries serving in the area. We truely feel blessed to have had this experience and feel our testimonies have been strengthened by the knowledge and feelings felt from this experience. I know that we will all endure our own personal struggles; however, I truely cannot imagine facing the challenges they were given. These people had a great Spirit and understanding of the truthfullness of the Gospel, I admire their testimonies and the legacy they have left for us to protect.

We love you all and hope you someday will have the wonderful opportunity to visit these historical sites and witness the amazing stories of our ancestors and their incredible belief and courage.