At my firesides for the past 20 years, I have been telling people who didn’t understand why Emma stayed behind, that I felt there was a much bigger reason than just wanting to be buried beside her husband and family—though she may not have realized it at the time. If she had not stayed in […]
Kimberly Smith’s Statement on the LDS Church’s Big Announcement Read More »
Across the fields of western Illinois, there is a little-known trail, which follows the footsteps of the prophet Joseph Smith as he left Nauvoo for the last time, and rode 21 miles to his eventual death at the hands of a mob at Carthage Jail. The “martyrdom trail,” as it is known, takes a long
The Forgotten Trail: A Solemn Journey to Carthage Jail Read More »
My husband and I recently celebrated our wedding anniversary. With a little help from my friends, I was able to plan a fun surprise for him! Disclaimer: As of September 2023, I am a promotional partner of The Nauvoo Grand Bed & Breakfast This means I promote their business for compensation such as discounts and
Surprise: A Weekend Away at the Nauvoo Grand Read More »
In honor of Pioneer Day (July 24, 1847) when the first company of pioneers arrived in the Salt Lake Valley, I’d like to take you on a “walk” through the Nauvoo Pageant. Experience the Magic Before it even begins, you’re in love. On your way to pageant, you pass the Mississippi River. Wait, look! The
Sunsets, Music, And Dancing: The Magic Of Summer In Nauvoo Read More »
On June 27, 1844, the prophet Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum were murdered at Carthage Jail. The events of the day are familiar to Latter-day Saints: the plaintive singing of A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief, the frantic storming of the mob, and the volley of bullets into the upper room, which would send
Death of the Prophet: the Martyrdom of Joseph Smith Read More »
Nauvoo is a magical place in the summer. Suddenly, the main street is crowded. The pioneer village wakes up, stretches its limbs, and begins to dance. Costumed pioneers wave. An orchestra plays. Wagons packed with tourists lumber past. You can almost see it: the ghosts of the past awaken and you capture a glimpse of
A Forgotten City Comes to Life Read More »
Memorial Service This summer my family and I participated in a memorial service at Smith Family Cemetery in Historic Nauvoo for the martyrdom of the Prophet Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum Smith (June 27, 1844).1 The service included prayer, music, scriptures, and quotes all crafted into a dramatic retelling of that fateful June-day when
Battles with Grief: Then and Now Read More »
