Nauvoo Day 3

I forgot to mention last time that Logan forced me to get into the freezing cold pool with him on Wednesday night when we got back from the Temple.  It was NOT FUN (I repeat, not fun!), but Daniel snapped this sweet picture, so I can't be too mad!

Anyway, Day 3!  

We had seen horse and carriage rides going through town and Logan really, really wanted to go on a "horsey ride".  We were able to get tickets early Thursday morning, so that's how we started our day.

Logan loved it.  I loved hearing all the cool stories about the Saints that lived in Nauvoo.  I'm telling you guys, these people were remarkable.  Their spirit still rests in this special place.  I just couldn't get enough!

-In most high pitched voice you can imagine-
"Hey there, horsey!"

After the "horsey ride", we headed over to take a tour of Joseph Smith's old home and see where he is buried.  Talk about hallowed ground.  It was so cool to walk where he walked and be where he lived and feel that closeness with him.  He is a prophet of God.  I have no doubt.  

Joseph Smith's Tombstone.
Terrible picture, but you get the idea.

Before we left Nauvoo we made a special stop to go to Parley Street.  I'm going to give our experience on Parley Street it's own blog post, but let's just say, it now is a place very dear to my heart.

Then it was time to say goodbye to Nauvoo.  It was really a fun and special (I know, I've used special about 1000x in the last 3 blog posts) trip for our family.  Thank you so much to my in-laws for inviting us.  We loved it!

Before our trip was over though, we made one last stop at Carthage Jail, which is about 20 minutes outside of Nauvoo.  This is the place where the Prophet Joseph Smith was murdered.  Like the prophets of old, he sealed his testimony with his blood.  It was a wonderful experience to be where the Prophet made his last sacrifice for the Gospel of Christ.  I'm so thankful for all that he did for me personally.  I can enjoy the blessings that I have today because of Joseph Smith the prophet.  Read more about the martyrdom of Joseph Smith here.

Outside of Carthage Jail with the statue of Hyrum and Joseph Smith

Finally, it was time for our long journey home.  But before we left the great state of Illinois, we were able to meet up with my cousin DeeAnn.  I'm so glad we were able to work it out and coordinate because we loved seeing her.  She got to meet Logan and Reagan and they loved her.

Check back tomorrow for my final thoughts on our trip to Nauvoo.