August 8, 2015 - Saturday in Carthage

Mom and I had a fun day today.  We were up a little later than usual and had our morning devotional and prayers.  We had enough time to take a short walk and we got back home around 7:00am for breakfast.  We then reported over at the Visitors Center by 8:15am.  I had scheduled all four senior couples for the 9:00am to 4:00pm shift.  As we gathered together this morning, it appeared that I had over scheduled, until cars started to flow into the parking lot.

We had a Stake Youth Conference group come in to Carthage on their way back home.  They had not made a reservation, but they planned on saving the special experience here at Carthage for their last activity.  It was such a welcomed sight!  There were over 170 youth and leaders that came in over a three hour period and we were able to easily handle each tour as they arrived.  And these young people were well prepared for this experience.  I have enjoyed our experiences here in Carthage, especially with the eager and well prepared youth!

After this initial rush of guests, the visitors slowed way down, so mom and I went home early to get ready for our LAST Sunset play!  I think mom and I are the only ones happy to close this season down.  But, you all realize that the accolades of the stage show do not appeal to us..... However, it has been a fun experience to be a part of this production.  I took some pictures of the show... take a look;

Here is a view of the evening sky, from the Sunset stage.  There was a slight threat of rain but the evening was cool and comfortable...

Here is a view of the Patriotic tribute where we pledge allegiance to the flag, and sing the national anthem... the crowd was about 25% of the capacity of the seating, but they were a very appreciative audience.

This is a view of the kids parade.  It was wonderful to have some of our grandchildren participate in this parade this summer!

The young performing missionaries in the Nauvoo Brass Band as they are returning to the stage from the children's parade.  These are very talented performers and most of them are studying to be involved in some musical capacity when they graduate from college.

Another view of these wonderful members of the Nauvoo Brass Band.  They have a lot of energy and they were wonderful tonight for their last performance...

Add Here is the entire group of the young performing missionaries in the Nauvoo Brass Band.  We have enjoyed getting to know them a little better.  We had contact with them three times each week in Carthage and twice each week on the Sunset stage.caption

The drummer in the Nauvoo Brass Band was, I think, the most improved member.  He was so much fun to watch!  In every performance, his skills were magnified and tonight he laid it all out for us.   I've always had a soft spot in my heart for good drummers since I played the drums in the grammar school band and in the marching band.

The Sunset director is pictured in the middle holding a walking stick that was made by one on the Elders working in the Facilities Management group.  It was a pretty nice looking walking stick!  This is Sister Brown and she goes home in just a few weeks.

Here is the world famous dancing lady heading out to her position on the stage.  Her smile was much bigger than usual tonight.... this was her last dance of the 2015 season!  (One season down, one to go!)  Nothing quite like the END of the season on the outdoor stage.  However, I think we both enjoyed participating in the Sunset Play more so than the Rendezvous Play.

See if you can recognize the other half of the dancing lady's companionship??  Believe me it is better if you can't.... (hint: he is the 6th suspenders from the right)...

Here is Sister Walton, one of our favorite Young Performing Missionaries.  She is an amazing flute player.  She and Macie June share the same birthday!  She found this little outfit that was a Macie size of her own outfit and she was taking it home with her as a memento!  By the way, she got the letters from the kids in Rigby!  You made her day!

Well, there's the view of our wonderful day, today.  There is going to be a little break in the busy action here in the mission field.  Mom and I are anticipating the move back to Nauvoo and not having to drive an extra hour or two each day.  Thank you for checking in with us tonight!