August's parents have been called to serve an LDS Mission in the Missouri Independence Mission. We were able to visit over Labor Day Weekend. We took Bella, but left the boys in the hands of loving great-grandma, great-aunt, grandpa and aunt and uncle. This was the FIRST time they have spent more then 1 night away (which they have only done once or twice). August and I have traveled a lot with all of our kids. Bella hasn't flown since last year, so we assumed (wrong) that she would be a great traveler just like the boys. She screamed from take-off to touch-down. It wasn't fun. But, we were glad we made it because it was SOOOO good to see Mom and Dad Spangler!! It had been 8ish months since we saw them last.
The main reason we came was to visit and catch up. But, with so much history in the area we couldn't pass up the opportunity to visit. The first night we visited Liberty Jail. It is where Joseph Smith spent 5 (horrible) month awaiting trial. It brought life to D&C 121 for sure. It was an amazing experience to have a personal tour by two amazing missionaries (wink, wink). We were the only ones there after the Jail had closed for the evening. Amazing to say the least. It is awesome to hear personal accounts of individuals who sacrificed so much for something besides themselves. We watched a movie about Joseph Smith before the tour and one line stuck with me, "perhaps I am meant to swim in deep water". I have thought a lot about this. I think each one of us finds ourselves in situations that are hard. Situations that seem unbearable. But, when we realize that perhaps we are meant to traverse the particular challenge then I/we assume that we must have the skills to make it to the other side. I know that we are presented with challenges in life that make us learn and grow. Our own "refiners fire" in a sense. It makes us who we are. This jail was seen as Joseph Smith's refiners fire.
"Sister Spangler"
Grandma and Grandpa also serve at the Independence, MO visitors center.
They have lots of pioneer information and displays. I think the boys would have had enjoyed it all.
On Monday, we headed to Far West. The drive there was beautiful (but, I am a sucker for anything nature related). This was my first time in Missouri. Reminded me of TN without the hills. Far West is a dedicated temple site, without a temple. Only the four cornerstones were placed before the saints were driven out. It is hard to explain the feeling felt there. The only description is sacred. Similarly to how I view current LDS temples now.
Bella had a ball running in the grass and being free of the car:) Being there made me want my boys with us to experience it. If I want my boys with me on vacation, I can't imagine how I would feel without them in the next life. I am thankful for the belief of eternal families.
More HERE on eternal families and temples.
After Far West, we headed to Adam-ondi-Ahman. Just thinking about the significance of this place is overwhelming. It held the same peaceful feeling as Far West. LDS members believe this is the place that Adam and Eve first went after leaving the Garden of Eden and the place Adam will return and visit his people and hold a great priesthood leadership meeting.
Just being here made me want to be better and try harder at...everything.
Bella played peek-a-boo behind a tree at Adam-ondi-Ahman.
This is Preacher's Rock. It is where Joseph Smith himself stood and taught the saints many years ago.
Usually when we go on vacations it includes the beach and ocean. This vacation was a little different, but totally enjoyable. We mostly enjoyed visiting and letting Bella catch up with Grandma and Grandpa. We can't wait to see them again!!
PS: The airplane ride home was equally as horrible.
