It's hard to start a post about my temple experience, because in all honesty, it is an almost indescribable and special experience!
There was a period of time when I thought the temple was somewhere I would never get to. I didn't think it was in the cards for me. But the past two years of my life have been an incredible journey. It's funny how you can think you are so far away from our Heavenly Father, and then realize that you have always been cradled in the palm of his hand. Despite the way I was living my life and all of the mistakes I thought I had made, our Savior never gave up on me. Somehow through that time, I think, I always knew that.
It was hard to imagine myself in the temple without my family. Living in New Jersey proved difficult with that. But what it really came down to was that my family would be there with me. My husband was there, that was very special to me. My aunt and uncle were able to make a trip from Virginia to be with me, that too, was special. The rest of my family was in my heart. No matter the distance or circumstance, every single one of you was with me. I could feel your love and prayers. I was grateful for that comfort.
We found out later that afternoon that I am related to my bishop on my mother's side. He is my mother's 3rd cousin, which would make him my 4th cousin. I guess I truly did have more family with me than what I thought!
I knew that what I was doing was right. Never before have a felt such a feeling of comfort, safety or peace. I could feel Heavenly Father and the Savior's love for me, personally. I know they are proud of the changes Ian and I have made in our lives.
Now, nothing can keep me from the temple :)
My Uncle Kurt and Aunt Tami visiting from Virginia. It was so wonderful to see them and to finally introduce them to Ian!
My sweet friend Amanda who was my escort in the temple. She made a huge sacrifice for me, as her baby was due in only a few days! She has since given birth to a healthy baby boy :)
My ward family :) It meant so much that they all made the trip to support me.
Kurt and Ian talking air traffic.
We all went out for lunch afterwards, it was an amazing day! Oh, and yes, that IS raw tuna in my salad ;) Tami and I were very brave!
Soon to be eternal companions :)
