going in circles on purpose

Sometimes the only way to get from point A to point B is to go in a circle. At least that is what it felt like. I had meetings in Detroit this week and thought, "hey, I'm only four hours away from Kirtland. Why don't I just go in a day early and head on down?" Didn't make sense NOT to, so I did.

I got into Detroit about 6:30pm on Sunday evening and started the long trek to Garrestville. My GPS said it would be a three-hour drive but a closed exit and several construction zones made it just under four hours. We went, almost, straight to bed.

Getting up early we started our drive that went in circles. I know that we passed the Johnson Home at least four times, although I didn't realize the first pass until much later. I'm not kidding when I say we went around in circles! I wish I could map it out for you but I have no idea where we went and how we got there. I'll just give you the highlights.

Starting at the beautiful Kirtland Temple we got the tour. I dragged them across the street and into the cemetery were we found a monument with Wells on it! More family research to do. :) I knew most of the stories about the temple but it was so nice to finally see it. I had always wondered why that temple is so, so different from every other temple afterwards and finally had that question answered. The Kirtland temple was built so that Jesus Christ could bring the organization of the church back to the earth. He as able to appear after the dedication and do just that. This temple had a completely different purpose than our temples today, and now I know!!

After the temple we went to the Kirtland Visitor's Center, watched the movie, walked through the Whitney store and home, and the other buildings there. What an amazing family the Whitney's were. They gave up so much! The biggest surprise for me here was the size of the room where the School of the Prophets held meetings. Wow! It was so small! I just don't see how you can get 20 people in there comfortably, then add the pipe smoke, and the hosts of angels and that is one claustrophobic place. Section 89 was probably a breath of fresh air (haha!!). As much fun as it was to see the buildings and hear the stories, meeting the other missionaries was my favorite part of this visit. What amazing people they all are. I can see why Mom and Dad love the work and the people so much.

After the visitor's center, we stopped at the Morley Farm. I have to admit that this is one place I would have driven by as unimportant if I would have been on my own. I have to tell you...DON'T DO IT!! Another amazing story of faith and selflessness. The Morley also gave up their entire lives for the church. The property is beautiful. If I worked there, I would walk up to the trees and just sit there for hours. Seriously, isn't this such a serene place?

Next we stopped by Emma's, a small Amish store, to pick up some bread. We, of course, helped ourselves to a fry pie each and I got a rug and Mom got a stable for her nativity set. A couple of the quilts were so breathtaking, I really wanted one. But I was strong!! and settled for my rug. :)

Then it was back to the Johnson Farm. Wow. Mama Johnson had STYLE! I loved the house and the colors and everything about the home. Again, another amazing family that literally gave up everything for their faith. I knew these early saints did it, again and again, but to see what they actually gave up gave me a completely perspective. I thought many times about giving up what I have and doing the same thing. I hope that I could and would. The revelation room is as special as I've been told. You can feel the Spirit when you walk in the doors.

I have such a different perspective on Church history and the Doctrine and Covenants. I am determined to reread it before Thanksgiving. Adding to my living on purpose this month. :)

It was a very special day. I am so glad I was able to take the day and share it with my missionaries! Are they just the best!!