Train Trip 2009: Part 2

Our next stop on our trip was Nauvoo, IL and Carthage. There we stayed 2 nights, but could have stayed atleast another 2 to see everything. It is so pretty there. Nauvoo is awesome. To be where the early saints of the church were, walk in their shops, and get an understanding of how they lived was amazing. It truly strengthened my testimony of the saints, and the sacrifices they went through.
Smith Mansion House
Joseph, Hyrum, and Emma Gravesites
Nauvoo Temple
Gunsmith Shop. "THE" Browning who's story is so interesting.
Brigham Young Home
Inside Brigham Young home. Romm where Apostles would gather.
Mansion House

Nauvoo Visitor Center
Brick Making Shop

Next was Carthage Jail. What a remarkable place that is. I do not think I could explain the feelings that are there. Inside the room where the Prophet Joseph and his brother Hyrum were murdered. It is a somber place, but yet the spirit is there. There is still the original stair banister, door, and floor. Knowing that Joseph walked those floors, held that banister, seeing the bullet hole through the door that killed Hyrum is something that really makes you humble. Knowing all that took place there was a true testament to the Savior and to Joseph.
Window Joseph fell from after being shot
Mom & Sisters inside Carthage
Outside Carthage Jail
Statue of Joseph & Hyrum
Original Door with bullet hole that killed Hyrum

Train Trip 2009: Part 1

My grandparents took all the grandkids who wanted to go, on a train trip for two weeks. Our stops were to include all church and national historic sites. We left June 28th at 3:00am for the train station in Winslow. From there, we boarded for a 30 hour train ride to Chicago,IL. And I have to say... I loved the train. It got kind of gross towards the end, but all in all it was a great way to travel. From Chicago, we rented vans and took off for another 6 hour drive to Springfield,IL where we spent the day seeing Lincoln Country.
Abe Lincoln Quote after elected president
Whitney and Chelsea in Lincoln Home
Lincoln's "float" for the parade for president
Abe Lincoln Home

Original furnace in Lincoln home



On this same leg of the trip we also visited "New Salem". A small community founded by Abraham Lincoln.

Giveaways...

My friend Heidi is having a giveaway on her super cute blog. Go HERE and check it out.

World Traveler

I am back from my two weeks of galavanting around the country, and I am bound and determined to get back into blogging. As soon as I get pictures of our trip back from my sister I will get right on it. We had such a great time and saw so many neat things. I cannot wait to tell you all:)

Look At This...

Is this not the cutest idea ever for use of an old headboard/footboard? I think I am going to be on the yard sale lookout for one!

Daddy Daughter Date

These two had a little date a while back. They went to the movies, lunch, and did a little shopping. I couldn't get Bailey to be serious. She just wanted to give a "Siwy" (silly) face. They had a fun time!

Because my blog is sad....

Just a little preview of my MEGA post to come, and a little pick-me-up for me lonely, boring blog! Things we will be exciting again soon:)