We strolled through the park at Keokuk only 20 min from Nauvoo. It is the favorite shopping destination for 400+ missionaries...needless to say, we always run into senior and/or young missionaries filling their carts at the several grocery stores (or dollar stores). We have our favorite spots, those that sell the most fresh fruits and veggies. In the park, we spoke with a couple from Colorado...first time in the area and really knew nothing of Nauvoo...hadn't planned to even go there. We pointed across the Mississippi to the City of Joseph and gave them a brief overview of the marvellous and inspiring things that awaited them only 20 min out of their way, and thinking to ourselves - it will change your lives forever!

The weather has changed to lovely 80+ and 50% humidity...wow, what a change from the 90's with 75+ humidity! It was perfect weather for the crowds of people that attended memorials for Joseph and Hyrum, killed 165 years ago, June 27th at 5:18pm. JoAnn and I happened to be serving in the temple at the time and enjoyed a very spiritual experience in the session that we officiated. Pageant time is nearly upon us. Cast member are beginning to arrive. We are blessed to be located just across the field from the outdoor theater and can hear the wonder music. Temple attendance has increased as folks are coming to town. Thank you all for your prayers and support in our behalf. We pray too, for your health and welfare.

Missionaries On The Road

William Meek arrived in 1836 and established this mill and within several years other flour, grist and lumber mills lined the river, all powered by huge water wheels on the Des Moines. Settlers came to Bonaparte from as far as 100 miles away to have their grain ground into flour, and Meeks Mills and other mills established a reputation for quality. Steamboats and paddlewheelers chugged up the river on their way to Des Moines, and the first Utah-bound Mormon settlers stopped in Bonaparte long enough to have their grist processed and to build several sturdy downtown buildings.

Iron and Lace Shop. Just up the road from Bonaparte is a quaint town called Bentonsport (also situated along the Des Moines River. We stopped and visited with Bill and Betty. Bill is the blacksmith and Betty makes pottery and jewelry...a most interesting couple. I couldn't resist getting my hands into the mud!

"Calm as the summer morning"

On June 24, 1844, the Prophet Joseph Smith with his brother Hyrum, and in company with seventeen other men, left Nauvoo for Carthage, on what would be his final horse ride, to answer charges against him for "riot". When en they arrived at the intersection of Mulholland and Wells, Joseph gazed at the beautiful Temple, then looked toward Nauvoo and the Mississippi River and said, "THIS IS THE LOVELIEST PLACE AND THE BEST PEOPLE UNDER THE HEAVENS, LITTLE DO THEY KNOW THE TRIALS THAT AWAIT THEM."

On June 27, 1844, Joseph and his brother were martyred. His prophetic words, "I am going like a lamb to the slaughter but I AM CALM AS A SUMMER'S MORNING. I have a conscience void of offense towards God, and towards all men. I shall die innocent, and it shall yet be said of me...he was murdered in cold blood," - became a reality.

Sister Howard and I are blessed to serve here where Joseph and Hyrum walked, along with our ancestors. We too, are among some of the "best people under the heavens" and we include you, our loving family and friends. Thanks for sharing our mission with us.

Temple view from Montrose

When the Saints left Nauvoo and crossed the Mississippi, they camped at Sugar Creek. You are familiar with the "Gift of the Quail". As they departed from their campsites, they had a last look at the temple. This photo represents the view they might have had (taken from a bluff above present Montrose). One journal entry stated, "On reaching the summit, the company made a halt for the purpose of taking a last peering look at the Nauvoo Temple."

We are honored to serve in this Holy House today to continue the work the Saints began many years ago.