Dear Family and Friends,
In one week we'll be heading home. We are feeling very ready to be back in the mountains. It's been a great experience but the time has come to begin a new chapter.
Kristen, Karl, and their kids will fly in Monday and after we show them around for a couple of days, we will be begin our journey West. Gavin will be baptized here in Nauvoo. The perfect way to end our service with the baptism of a grandson. We're so delighted that they can make the trip.
The preliminary numbers for guests during pageant (July 10 - August 4) at the visitors' center were 63,000. Last year there were 31,000 visitors. No wonder everyone is so tired.
Bob and I served at Carthage on Sunday. It was nice to be able to serve there one last time. Sunday hours are !2:30 - 5 and there were 600 visitors in that short time span. I think we both enjoyed serving when the tours were smaller but the spirit of Carthage is strong anytime.
We are going to go visit Bob's Aunt Carole and his cousins this Sunday afternoon up in Iowa. We are also going to his Grandpa Martin's grave. We have never been to the gravesite. The added closeness we have gained to Bob's side of the family has been a gift. A bridge of understanding has definitely been strengthened. They're are such good people.
As we leave Nauvoo, we are determined to take with us the strength and knowledge gained here and the habits that helped us become stronger. Serving a mission is difficult and without each other and the Savior, we would not have lasted. Yes, the blessings are many but it is not without sacrifice.
We know the Savior lives and directs The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Heavenly Father answers prayers and loves each of us individually. He knows what's best for His children. We have living prophets, starting with the prophet of the restoration, Joseph Smith and continuing unbroken to President Russell M. Nelson today. We also know there was much sacrifice from many to build the foundation. We have much to do to continue building the Lord's kingdom so He can return to the earth once more. What a glorious time we are in!
We truly love you and are grateful for the prayers and support we have felt from all of you.
Sincerely with a heartfelt thank-you,
Sister and Elder Long
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