Nauvoo/Peoria

We pressed onward from Colorado and made our way through the vast plains of Nebraska, taking a quick pit stop in Lincoln to visit my cousin Marci and her husband and cute kid. It was so fun to spend a little time visiting with them. And they were so gracious letting us stay with them.

Then, we made our way through Iowa and on to Illinois. We stayed the night with our good friends, the Von Benedikts, in Peoria and took a day trip down to Nauvoo. Nauvoo was awesome! We loved learning so much about church history, visiting the sites, attending the shows, eating super creamy and delicious fudge, and seeing the breathtaking Nauvoo Temple. We had such a fantastic time in Nauvoo and also being able to spend some time in Peoria with our friends, Joseph and Jenna and their adorable little girl, Audrey.

Here's the Nauvoo Temple. Isn't it beautiful?!?!

Another shot of the temple. The grounds were beautiful, and I loved how many of the church sites were preserved and/or restored.

Since I was wearing a dress, I got to peak in the temple. All the woodwork inside and the decor was BEAUTIFUL! They even had a couple historic items that they had on display in the hallway. Really beautiful...

Outside the visitors' center, there was a beautiful garden that was a tribute to women and displayed sculptures representing different points in a woman's life. (thanks Pres. Hinkley!)

This is Brigham Young's house. It was neat to tour and learn about the different buildings.

Jared with a handcart. We got to learn about the wheelmaking and about the jobs the blacksmiths did. And we got a ring made out of a nail as a keepsake.

Me outside, of course, the shoe and boot store. We learned all about shoe making and repairing. I must say, I'll think I'll just stick with shoe buying and wearing. :)

Jared and the Mississippi River. It was actually pretty gross up close, but it was cool to walk along it.

Also by the river, was a building that was dedicated to all the pioneers that died along the way. We took pictures of the ones that we're probably related to. Here's the Ashworths. (we also saw Mitchells, Coombs, Briggs, and Robbins).

Here's me with Jenna and Audrey. (Pardon the Flock of Seagulls hair) It was so good to see you guys. Thanks for putting us up!