Nauvoo

For the latter part of spring break, we headed down to Nauvoo with our friends, the Birds. In the chaos of leaving, I forgot my camera, so thanks to Kori for these pictures. We got to stay in a beautiful lodge together and the kids had a great time playing together. One of Andrew's highlights was a random cat that they found. The cat would come and lay on people's laps and was extremely affectionate. Much to Chris' dismay, 2 of our children are now begging for a cat.

In the family learning center we learned what the pioneers would do. They learned about baking bread in brick ovens, making candles, weaving and creating yarn, and making rope. Here, Braxton, Emma and Hailey are learning how to wind rope. Poor Hailey got her hair stuck in the rope and we had some tears, but overall it was a good learning experience.

We were able to take a horse drawn carriage ride and got to learn all of the interesting things in Nauvoo. We got to see all of the homes, the temple, see the Mississippi, and get an appreciation for the early Saints.

This is the "wishing well" (as Hailey kept calling it) outside of the home that Joseph and Emma Smith lived in. It was pretty deep.

Learning weaving at the family history center.

Learning at the little school house. They got to write on the slates, and no one got paddled.

In the evening, the missionary couples put on a show called "Rendezvous" which was fabulous. Here are the kids sitting on the stage before it began. All of the missionaries were so friendly to us and were so happy to be on their missions! It made me think of my own parents.

Sitting in the wagon outside of the lodge that we stayed in. Wonderful lodging!

Before we headed home, we stopped by Carthage to see the jail where Joseph and Hyrum were killed. It is the building behind us. We had a wonderful trip with a renewed sense of gratitude for the early Saints. What hardship they endured and what amazing faith they possessed.

Hailey and Emma on the wagon ride. What cute friends.