A Temple in Star Valley

My friend Natalie told me I better find something to smile about and blog about it...well Natalie, I found it. :) 

The announcement of the Star Valley, Wyoming LDS Temple was a great cause for me to smile today.  I was so excited when the announcement was made that I may have forgot that I had a cup of flour in my hand.  Let's just say that the jumping in the kitchen with said cup of flour resulted in an empty cup and a flour covered Carolynn.  But it didn't matter.  Within seconds my phone lit up with text messages and a phone call from a tearful, grateful mother.  I'll be honest, I don't remember anything else from that session of conference.  I'm glad I have it on DVR to go back and watch.  The announcement caused me to think a great deal about the blessing of a temple to the wonderful valley that I call home.  I thought about the wonderful ancestors that I have, that settled in the valley.  Who sacrificed so much to stay in that paradise and help to set up the church there to thrive.  I can only imagine how much they rejoiced when the announcement was made.  I also thought of all the wonderful Saints that live there now, who drive to participate in temple ordinances now.  I thought of my own wonderful parents who keep me on my toes with their temple attendance.  They often go many times a month, most times leaving after a work day and drive the 2 1/2 hours to Idaho Falls, completing a session and then driving home to arrive early in the morning hours.  I think of what a blessing this will be to my sisters who have small families and have a hard time leaving children for that long of a time.  What a blessing it will be for them.  I also thought of my nieces and nephews that will be able to participate in baptisms more often because of the close proximity of the temple.  I have cried many tears of joy today because of this announcement.  The Lord knows and blesses his people.