When I found out that they would be opening the Idaho Falls Temple for a public open house following the 2 year remodel and prior to rededicating it again, I knew we had to figure out a way to get my family there. This temple is so special to me. It was the landmark on I-15 that told me we were almost home after a long trip. It's where I had my first experience with performing ordinances on behalf of my deceased ancestors. It's where I was endowed with power prior to serving a year and a half mission. It's where I married my sweetheart, where my mom married hers, and where my grandparents were sealed as husband and wife. I couldn't wait to be able to take my kids inside for them to see because once a temple is dedicated, you need a recommend to enter, and in order to get a recommend, you have to be at least 12 years old and a baptized member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who is keeping the commandments to enter. This was a big deal, an opportunity that I never thought I would have. So, even though we had a crazy April, we made it happen.
Brian and I got choked up as we showed our kiddos the altar where we were married and the couch we sat on while we waited for our sealing/marriage ceremony. The memories of that day came crashing back on us, and it was like we could see our younger selves and telling them, "Look at this amazing family you're going to have!" I'll always be grateful for that day.
After the open house, we headed to the Museum of Idaho. We always see billboards for their exhibits when we drive up to Idaho and we always seem to miss the good ones. So, when we actually had time AND were in town while the exhibit was still going on, we had to take the opportunity to check it out, especially since my parents were helping with the Open House and wouldn't be home for visiting. The museum had a big exhibit on Ancient Rome. They had lots of hands on stuff for the kids, and we all had a blast.
We learned about machines, armor, battles, gladiators, arches, and so much more.
Then, we found this Kid's Discovery room. It had a really cool tree house, caves, and a mini log cabin. It put our playroom to shame; it was that cool.
Michael had a LOT of fun putting on costumes:
After the museum, we went to the opposite side of the Snake from the temple to take a picture. The lighting wasn't ideal, but at least we're all looking, right?
And then the kids wanted to take a picture on the horse bench across the street.
And then we went back to my parents' house for baths
and lawn mowing:
Rachel taught the Barbies yoga:
Gabe got in a good nap before church the next day. I love sleeping babies. So precious!
Before we headed back, we stopped to say good-bye to Grandma and Grandpa Linville. There aren't enough words to describe how much I love this picture. I love seeing my kids with these amazing people and hope that they'll be around for years and years to come, but since we have no guarantees, we take lots of pictures, give lots of hugs, and be sure that we always say "I love you."
It was a quick trip--I don't think we were even there 48 hours, but it was totally worth squeezing it into our schedule. I'm so glad we were able to go!
No comments:
Post a Comment