Yes. We are still here!

The winter is now solidly behind us. The air is warm and moist and the reality of bugs is also here. There is an excitement in the air as the 'Summer of Nauvoo' approaches. I am truly excited for what is ahead. There will be crowds of people that come for the pageant. They will come to the Temple. And they will walk the streets of Nauvoo - old and new. It is such a blessing to be here. Our days have been filled with mingling with missionaries in the Temple. We join them for dinner and in turn, invite them to our home. We take drives, go on walks and anticipate that we will soon see fire-flies. There are young missionaries all about singing, playing instruments and citing their lines as they prepare to tell the story of Nauvoo once again.

Saturday, Sheri and I were the coordinators of the morning Baptistry session. Over 100 young patrons came throughout the morning. Certainly some routine mixed with touching moments of life-changing emotions for some.

I had the opportunity to help paint the 'Sunset on the Mississippi' stage with missionaries.

Derek Furch, a long-time friend, musician and director of full-time performing missionaries is here. It is great to see his talents unfold here. I am always so proud to tell people that he is my friend. I have heard a taste of his work in the last few days as he brings together these missionaries to use their talents here.

As I reflect tonight, I guess the answer is 'Yes'. It is all that you could imagine an experience of a lifetime should be. We are so grateful to be here.