We did something really special with our kids this weekend. We have a new LDS temple opening in Gilbert and we took the family (minus Cannon thanks to my sister-in-law) to the open house. Before a temple is dedicated for worship, it is open to the public, everyone who wants to enter can enter and feel of the special spirit within it’s walls. If you live near a temple that is opening – go and visit it, whether you’re of the LDS faith or not, you will love it. It was beautiful on all accounts.
This was the first time Hunter and Bennett were able to see inside the temple (Hallie went to an open house when she was 3). We were able to talk with them as we walked through; explaining to them what we do when we go to the temple and what to look forward to when they can go. It was really special.
They don’t allow photography within the temple – but here’s a video link with some interior shots. (here)
Last night I was thinking about the temple and just how beautiful it was. Hallie was commenting just how pretty all the chandeliers were and they really were breathtaking. I started thinking through all the temples I’ve been in and they are all so different and unique, yet they serve the same purpose.
When we travel, we make it a point to go to the temple in the area if there is one – a lot of times we’re able to worship, some times we just go to the grounds and walk around with the kids. Either way we’re reminded of the sacred and special nature of the temple. We added Gilbert to the list of temples we’ve visited.
Boise
Twin Falls
Idaho Falls
Rexburg
Seattle
Salt Lake
Bountiful
Provo
Timpanogas
Manti
St. George
San Diego
Mesa
Las Vegas
Gila Valley
Winter Quarters
Nauvoo
Kirtland
Chicago
Washington D.C.
New York
Lima Peru
Gilbert
Out of all the temples, Gilbert is high on my list of favorites – next to Nauvoo and San Diego. If you’re in AZ right now, go take a look.
I met you last summer in our parents ward, not sure if you remember. 🙂 Anyways, I am going to attempt a herringbone wall like your office for my sewing room. I read your post and it looks do-able, just time consuming. Now that it has been a while since you have done it, do you have any other tips? Anything you would do differently?
Of course I remember! It is definitely time consuming. Map out your wall so the pattern fits your wall exactly (makes it way easier!) After you tape, seal it really well with your base color so it minimizes bleeding. And make sure you let the sections dry really well (paint every other section at the same time) before you start taping over it for the sections. And then of course send me pictures!
Your photos are beautiful! My brother is a bishop of a singles ward in the LA area and he is organizing a trip next weekend with a bunch of kids in his ward.
They're going to love it – I love that they're making a special effort to attend, open houses are the best!