Nauvoo Week 48 (7 - 20 November 2016)

Nauvoo Week 48 (7 – 13 November 2016)

This was a special week in Lake Zurich, IL with Scott, Malia, Corban and Ruby.  On Monday Scott and Tom played golf in the morning and had a wonderful time.  Tom was a little shocked at the price versus what he pays in Nauvoo. 

Later that day we had a great Family Home Evening and fun playing with the kids.

On Tuesday we went to the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago.  It is located near Soldier Field where the Chicago Bears play.  It is a wonderful place to visit; Corban was really excited to see all of the animals, fish and exhibits.  We really enjoyed the porpoise show and all of the tricks they did.  The Beluga whales were also impressive as well as the sea lions. 

We also saw Sponge Bob 4D show; they spray water at you and blow air that really makes the show come alive.  Corban kept reaching out for the characters that appeared to be right in front of your face.  It was fun and enjoyable.

Wednesday, Tom got his new glasses (progressive trifocals) and had a lot of fun with them.  Previously he had trifocals with lines and was really used to them; these are a different story.  Hopefully, they will become more functional as the days go on.  We did some Christmas shopping for the kids. 

Thursday, Sharon and Malia went to a lunch at one of the neighbors; it was a 20’s themed event.  They both dressed up in period dress, they were the hit of the event!  Malia says this lady never does anything half-way but always to the “Max”. 

They had a great time and came home with bags of goodies.

Friday, we rested up a little and had a great time with the kids playing almost every game and with every action figure, car ever made.  It is so fun to be with them and to see their growth.  Ruby is a great baby; eating, smiling and sleeping.  She hardly ever cries and sleeps wonderfully during the entire day.  We don’t understand how she naps from 5:00-6:30pm, eats and plays for a few minutes and then goes back to sleep about 8:00pm for the night (usually waking to be fed about every 4-5 hours), she is a “dream” baby!  It was also the Grand Opening of Scott’s second store (Lumens Optical) in Mount Prospect.  They had the Mayor cut the ribbon and an Open House with several visitors that enjoyed some refreshments and handouts form the store.  The stores are really attractive to the eye and the customer service is second to none.

Saturday, Scott was home from work and we had fun with them playing games, eating and catching up.  We went to the Chicago Temple and found it very busy.

  We were put on an overflow session and had a wonderful, spiritual experience.  We also saw our friends from Chicago (Paul & Ann Castleton) there.  We first met them in 2008 in the MTC in Provo.  They were going to Toronto Canada and we were going to Madrid, Spain.  They later served as President and Matron of the Chicago Temple.  They have been to Nauvoo a couple of times while we were here and we had dinner with them.  It was good to see them again.  Later, Sharon wrapped the kids Christmas gifts, Scott & Malia finished preparing their Sunday lessons. 

Sunday, we attended church in the Buffalo Grove ward and again saw many people that we had seen the previous time we were there. We came home and kind of all took naps then had a wonderful dinner of French Dip sandwiches and cake.  We then played games and had a great time. 

It was a special week; to spend time with Scott, Malia, Corban and Ruby. 

It will be sad not to be with them over the holidays, but they are doing well and liking their time in Chicago.  We look forward to seeing them again early next year in Utah.  We thank each of you for your support, love and patience with us.  Serving in Nauvoo has been a special experience for us; we have grown much and our testimonies have been strengthened.  We look forward to returning to the Temple next week and serving with all our heart, might, mind and strength.  God be with you til we meet again.

Love,

Mom & Dad/Nana & Papa/Elder & Sister Shaw