Our Trip to Canada and New York

Gary had his annual ICMA conference in Montreal, Canada. I was fortunate to be able to go with him this year. It was wonderful. We stayed at the Marriot on the 24th floor. The view from our room was amazing especially at night. A few of our City Manager friends were there with their wives, it was fun to be with them. We saw the sights, did some shopping, and (my favorite) ate out. It was wonderful to be with Gary, hang out with friends and eat good food.
The conference was good and lasted until Wednesday. On Wednesday, a bit after noon, Gary and I rented a car and made the 5 1/2 hour drive down to Palmyra, New York, where his parents are serving on their mission.
We were in Awe at the beauty of the land in that part of the country. Upstate New York is beautiful!!! We drove into Palmyra and arrived at the Hill Cumorah right at sunset. We were able to climb the hill and look over the green, lush valley. There is a wonderful, powerful spirit there. It was great to be with Stick and Melba. They took us to see the Church sites and did an awesome job on the tours they gave us. We are so proud of them.
On Friday, Dan and Staci hooked up with us (so exciting). Stick and Melba took us all on a dinner cruise on the Erie Canal. Then we all stayed at Stick and Melba's wonderful apartment, which was across the street from the Sacred Grove.
Gary and I were able to go into the Sacred Grove a few times. Saturday morning before we left for home we spent a brief moment in the Grove. The peace and spirit is so beautiful, it makes you not want to leave.
Gary and I were so grateful for all those who made this trip possible for us. We missed our girls but we were so grateful to know they were in good hands. Thanks to Mom and Dad Elggren, Laura and Russ, April and Matt, Kirsten and Matt, and Joe and Tiff for spoiling our kids and taking good care of them. We love you all!!!