This morning Jeff and I took our children to the ground breaking ceremonies for the new
Gilbert Arizona Temple. It was amazing. I was so proud of my children who sat there for close to 4 hours, first in the cold and then in the blazing sun. We took them up to see the dirt that was to be turned, explained that this event would start the actual building of the temple and that in 2 years (hopefully) they would be back in the same spot walking through the building. Megan and Haley got especially excited when they learned that they would be 8 and able to attend the dedication when the temple was completed. How neat is it to be them, to partake in all the possible events that take place with a new temple. I hope they remember. I hope I remember to take enough pictures that they will. I have been blessed to be at a few dedications in my lifetime, and even a few more open houses, but I have never attended a ground breaking ceremony and as I sat there during the closing song I could not deny the spirit felt there. It was so strong that even on that busy street corner with tired and hot children hanging on me, I was moved to tears at the love our Heavenly Father has for us. I stand all amazed. Now let us rejoice!
I know it looks like we only have two children here, the other two refused to take pictures this morning.
The actual "ground breaking spot."
My one happy child to take a picture with her daddy.
Waiting for the ceremonies to start - this was a little over an hour and a half before the start. We waited a long time, but got pretty good seats!
7 comments:
How wonderful you got to go to this. And, with the kids. Very memorable. I am excited for you to have a temple so close!
Super special! Where was the groundbreaking? is it going to be closer than the Mesa temple? How fun!
What a great memory...I'm sure the kids will remember forever - with our without pictures :).
I have never been to a ground breaking before! How exciting! Was the prophet there? Your post moved me to tears too...what a wonderful experience you are giving your children. Love you
I would have loved to be there for that! Can't wait until it opens and we'll have to come and see it before it's dedicated with our kids! Hope you are all great and have the happiest of Thanksgivings! :)
You definitely got better pictures than and I did and I am so grateful I was able to be there with you and to benefit from your seating arrangement. I am grateful to know that we will be able to take our children there someday and to share this memory with you and your family.
Wow! You guys did get really good seats. We got there an hour early and were almost at the back. Your pics are way better. And your post for that matter. Such beautiful words...you made me get all teary. I count on the Gray's for smiles, not tears!!!!! Thank you though, really.
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