one special day in palmyra

When Kaitlyn started filling out her mission papers, I asked her through which temple she wanted to go and with whom. She quietly said "I guess it doesn't matter as it will just be me and you." I really questioned her asking if there was really no one else she wanted to go with. She said, "Well, the ones I really want to go with are Grandma and Grandpa Wells, but they are on a mission." So, I went to work to see if there was any way she could share this day with her grandparents. We got it all worked out and were able to meet them in Palmyra, NY. What an amazing day.

Kaitlyn flew in to VA on 6/29, we actually met at the airport as I had a business trip that ended that day. I was lucky to find two flights that landed within 10 minutes of each other. She met me at my gate and we walked out. It was nice a relaxing the way it worked out.

On 6/30, we decided to make a roadtrip out of our road trip and found a few detours to take along the already 6.5 hour trip. We wanted to share the day with Wells and took a Flat Elder with us. Isn't he cute?

Here we are just getting into the car for this epic adventure.















Our first stop was a random covered bridge. It has some historical significance but we didn't really stop to see what it was. It was a little difficult to find but thanks to Kaitlyn's amazing map reading skills she learned in Ireland, we finally made it.

We made a brief stop at Gettysburg. Not as long as I would have liked but we still had such a long way to go! Here we are visitin' with Abraham Lincoln. We then made our way to the National Cemetary and walked around a bit. Then, we gave up trying to find the auto tour of the battle grounds and just stopped to have some lunch. 

Walking around downtown Gettysburg, we happened upon this cute little diner with Phosphates (honestly we had to ask what they were, think old time soda fountain and you would be right). I ordered a Raspberry Phosphate and shared with everyone, including our Flat Elder! 

The Southwest Nachos were amazing as were the above the rim shakes. We were stuffed and ready for our next adventure.








 This is one of the longest mason bridges in the United States. It is currently used by the rail roads and spans the Susquehanna River.



  On our way we found this giant dragon and had to take a pic.

We had a few other stops scheduled but realized it would take us another 12 hours if we stopped at everything so decided to start driving and see how long it took us. We had a long slog of about 4 straight hours in the car but pulled up to the hotel within minutes of Grandma and Grandpa. A yummy dinner at Chili's and then to bed.

We left the hotel about 7:30 am to get to the temple by 8:15 for orientation and paperwork. This is Kaitlyn's BEFORE picture. She was excited and nervous, as to be expected.

 And...here we are AFTER. All smiles. It was a beautiful day in the temple. And Palmyra is just stunning.

After having such a full day in the temple, we decided to see the sites. I think the perfect follow up to the temple was spending some time in the Sacred Grove. There is an amazing spirit there. You have to walk up the hill though to really feel the power of that place. I heard stories of families spending 2-3 hours there and now I know why. It is truly inspiring. 

After the Sacred Grove, we walked around the Smith Farm, toured the Book of Mormon print shop, and drove to the top of Hill Cumorah. That right there was a full day. I really wish we could have spent more time in Palmyra itself. Someday. :) 

Afterwards, we started the long slog back to VA. No stops this time except for fuel and some snacks. We drove the 6.5 hours straight and ended up back to my place at 11:30pm, exhausted but happy. Luckily church wasn't until 2:00pm the next day so we were able to sleep in a bit. 

It was one amazing weekend. I'm so glad we got to do it.