Nauvoo

We had a great time in Nauvoo this year.  The trip started off a bit rough, but we made it.

We enjoyed some of the same stuff as last year, but we did a couple new things too!

We got there early Friday morning.  Chris took the last shift of driving and I snoozed.  So Friday morning he stayed at Gram and Papa's to sleep while the rest of us went out and played a bit. Gram and Kiah on the Wagon Tour

Eli entertaining us on the Wagon Tour

prairie grass

This year we were there during Pageant time so we got to see a non-rehearsal form of the pageant.  (I did take Kiah to a rehearsal, just Kiah and me) Since Chris' parents work at the pageant we were able to see some of the behind the scenes stuff.

here is the first few minutes of the first rehearsal.


They asked us if we wanted to join in... but I was the only one interested, so it didn't happen. Someday!

Since it is a new ensemble cast each week, it is quite hectic in the costume shop.  After my report from last year, my mom was really wanting to come this year.  Unfortunately that couldn't happen.  But maybe my dad can come with us next year, because the set and stage are pretty amazing.  My dad has worked in outdoor theatres before.  It really is impressive.

The kids did get a chance to try on a few hats this year.

 We of course saw Just Plain Anna Amanda again and spent some time at Pioneer Pastimes.  We all got in the spirit this year and dressed-up for a photo op.

our new log cabin

We took the tour for the Community of Christ Tour.  They don't let you take pictures inside, so I was only able to take pictures of the grave markers.  We learned some interesting facts though.

Looking at a well on the side of the original Smith home

Here is a picture of Anna (with a rowdy little boy from the UK) in front of the markers for Hyrum, Joseph, and Emma.

Kiah posing in the graveyard

We made a jaunty out to Carthage.   The tour was really great.  They made it short and sweet for the kids sake... or maybe I should say for the parent's sake....hmmmm.

We also went out to the Old Nauvoo cemetery.  I really can't formulate into words the feeling there.
the kids wanted to take a picture by this fence at the cemetery.  Probably because another family did it.  So here is our attempt at, which was nothing like, the family photo.

One morning Chris and I went early to Parley street to listen to the Trail of Hope.  I just can't imagine being in the situation the pioneers were in... it is beyond me.  I suppose you do what you need to do.  The oxen ride is right by there so we grabbed the kids and went for a bumpy ride.

Right after taking this picture, the Brass Band showed up and we had a small private concert.


It is hard to tell but that woman is holding a shaker that looks like a banana

some other random pictures

Just before we got into he car to head home, Chris and I tried out Gram and Papa's bicycle build for two.  I think being in back may be harder than being in front.  I am not sure, just a guess.  I will say it is a HUGE lesson in communication.  And I found it a bit easier to do with my eyes closed!

Kiah took this picture.  I thought she did a pretty good job of catching a moving object.