Family Reunion in Nauvoo

We just got back from a wonderful family reunion in Nauvoo, Illinois. It was amazing and so great to share this experience with family. We all flew into St. Louis and went to the Gateway Arch. We went all the way to the top - which is 630 ft.! Then we headed over to Hannibal and took a ferry ride down the Missouri River - just like Huckleberry Fin. So fun! Our next few days were spent in historic Nauvoo, Illinois. It was touching to walk where pioneers walked, to hear their stories, to see their beautiful community and to gain a small glimpse of their many sacrifices. On our last day, we went to Carthage Jail. This was truly a spiritual experience.

Our Group. We filled an entire charter bus.

Caleb at the top of the St. Louis Arch

Cousins

My amazing niece that came with us to be an extra pair of eyes and hands for our

very busy 3 year old! Thank you, "S"!!!

Collin on the Missouri

My little pioneer girl

Braden and his cousin at a game of stick pull

In front of the LDS Nauvoo Temple

With Grammie and Papa.

Showcasing my unborn baby girl.

The Nauvoo Pageant with the LDS Temple as a back drop. It was a wonderful show.

Walking down the "Trail of Hope". Such faithful and courageous people. I gained such a greater love for my ancestors and the early pioneers.

At the edge of the Mississippi river where the pioneers crossed. It was the middle of winter and they had only 4 hours notice to gather their necessary belongings to start their long trek to the Salt Lake Valley. Again, so faithful and courageous. I love them.

A statue of the Prophet Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum.

This is how Caleb spent most of his time on the trip.

Apparently I wouldn't have made a good pioneer!

Inside the room where the Prophet Joseph Smith was martyred. I love that man.