Fort Monroe, Hampton, Virginia

The Great Dismal Swamp

The week after we arrived in Virginia the Great Dismal Swamp caught on fire. It smoldered for weeks buring a lot of land. There were days I didn't leave the house the smoke was so bad, and we live about and hour and a half away. We had heard it was a place we needed to go to. So in Novemeber when the fire was over, and trails were open again we decided we better head over there. We rode our bikes four miles in on a road dug out by slaves Washington had put to work. For what reason there needed to be a road dug for carriages to drive to the dismal swamp is beyond me. The ride was straight and flat the whole way. If we would have not had eachother to talk with it would have been very dreary, and a little eerie to ride. Would I recommend people go see it, yes. But I have no idea why. It was a very strange place to see. The swamp really is dismal, and very strange. Maybe I will think of some way to describe it one day but as for now I will just say the trees were beautiful for the fall weather, but all else was very dismal indeed.

Washington DC Temple

I have never thought the DC Temple was particularly pretty in pictures I've seen. I can say it's one of the more exquisite temples I've been to. It shines in the sunlight, and radiates a distinct power. Very glad we were able to visit it a few times while on our adventure.

I cannot talk about going to DC without speaking of our dear love for Doug and Sandy Banks. They have welcomed us into their home on several occasions now, on even a few hours notice. They treat us like family; which I am certain they do to all who enter into it (which doesn't make you feel any less special-just grateful you have them in your life). Their examples of service, love of the gospel, acceptance of all, generosity, family life, and adventure have inspired our family. We have had wonderful spiritual talks, jokes shared, lessons in cooking, football games on tv, playing the chimes in the living room, watching The Christmas Story as Sandy laughs just as much as any kid does, and just simple moments of life. We have gained two wonderful people into our family.

 

When we arrived at the temple the workers were planting the bulbs for Spring. They let Raiyah and Malakai plant several bulbs each. The kids were so excited, and the workers were so nice. It was a fun moment to teach the kids about serving and making the Lord's house a beautiful place.

I truly know that because of the sealing ordinace in the temple I will be with my beautiful family forever. This life is so wonderful, I am so thankful to have my incredible husband, and children to share it with.

Berkeley Plantation

Halloween

I would be remiss if I didn't take a moment and talk about our friends in Norfolk. We planned on doing our travels, and really just focusing on service and our family; which I think we've done more than ever before. But we didn't anticipate the friendships we would make. From Lindsi and Phillip Whiting letting us sleepover at their house the first night we got there, even though we had never met. Or Chris Bennion, and Kenny Larsen looking for houses for us while we were still driving out from Utah. To teaching violin to Jinny Kim, and Elise Peterson. Going to Yoga with Laurel Christensen, and talking about teaching and music. Being instant friends Jenny and being able to talk about anything. I truly cannot believe the great memories I will always hold of my friends in Norfolk. We had so much fun at bookclub, parties, the beach, and dinners. I love all of them dearly.

 Ryan really enjoyed hangin out with the guys in our ward as well. They were all great friends.

We went trick or treating in down town Norfolk with Whitings, Bennions, and Larsens. I haven't seen that many kids out since I was a little kids getting candy. It was a magical warm night. Lot's of fun.

Malaka and Sammy

Raiyah, Becham Larsen, and Addison Whiting

Malaka and Porter Whiting at the ward Halloween party. There were lots of fun games, a parade, treats, and trunk or treating. Everyone thought Malakai's costume was absolutely the best fireman they had ever seen. I have to agree. It looks pretty real.

John, Chris, and Sammy Bennion. Chris made these costumes. She is so amazing with anything artistic.

Ji and Jinny Kim. What can I say about them. :) I love them dearly. Ryan said that we could be twins if I wasn't from America, and Jinny from Korea. Along with the New Zealand accent, and my Utah accent. But we got along perfectly, and I hope to for many years to come.

Me and Lindsi Whting. Yes, she is very pretty, yes it's a costume. You will notice she will never just pose nicely for a picture; which is her personality. We had some great times with the kids and us wandering Virginia.