hamilton

on december 9th 1977 my parents - with my two oldest brothers (who at the time were just 4 and 2!) finished a hugely long trek from perth all the way to hamilton to be sealed as a family for time and all eternity. i now appreciate this so much more - after flying from perth to brisbane, brisbane to auckland and then driving the hour and a half up to hamilton. it was a long way. even more so in the days when they had to drive across australia, then fly from sydney and then drive some more. back when cars didn't have air conditioning and money was tight. but they did it. they did it for our family. and i am so grateful that it hurts. i stood there in absolute wonder of my beautiful parents that put our family first - and managed it. it makes me feel like i didn't put in enough effort! for us the temple is not only a simple 10 minute drive away - but in the back yard of our chapel! i see it every sunday. one more thing to be grateful for!

it was for that reason that while we were in new zealand i felt like i had to take madeline to the temple. it may be the only opportunity that i have to take her to see the temple that my parents (and coincidentally doug's too!) were sealed in all those years ago. it was so special taking her around the grounds and telling her that.

we also had a look in the visitors centre while we were there - and when i sat madeline down on the bench in there - she just couldn't take her eyes off the christ statue. it was so sweet. i am sure it's cause she still remembers who he is, i mean it hasn't been that long after all.

i love to see the temple. regardless of how many times i see it, i still love it. i love to walk in the grounds and feel the sweet spirit within. i am so blessed to have the gospel in my life and to know that i am part of

a forever family