Christmas Traditions: The Oakland Temple

If you have never visited the Oakland Temple at Christmas you should drop everything and go NOW!

 

 We love the Oakland Temple-it's where our family was established!-and when the Christmas lights start to light up the neighborhood we know it's time to head back to where it all began for a spectacular light display.

 

 In addition to seeing the beautiful lights and displays, there are fantastic programs running continuously.

 

Like Samuel's beasty chest hair?  Just kidding, it's the faux fur from my hood. 

Or is it?

 

The kids couldn't resist touching the icy water!

 

 Owen all decked out in his froggy beanie.

 

 All smiles...

 

 Bundled up!

 

 Gorgeous poppies thriving in the cold!

 

 So California!

 

 I LOVE this temple!  It's absolutely stunning!

 

 Walking the rooftop gardens and checking out the beautiful city views.

 

 Wow!

 

 Seven is heaven...yup!  Cheesy!

Me and my babies in the warm Visitor Center...Owen wandered away.

How can you see Christs arms open to you and NOT want to come unto him?

 

 

 Temples are amazing places, and there is a spirit there that is unlike any other.  What a blessing it is to have the Sacramento Temple so near, and to be able to take our families at the drop of a hat to walk that sacred and holy ground and to remember...

Families are forever.

Family Temple Trip

We decided to spend this Saturday visiting the Sacramento Temple.

 

It was a beautiful day, and we were excited to take some family photos.

 

I can't tell you what Owen was thinking here, but I love his expression!

 

President Monson said,
“As we touch the temple, the temple will touch us.”

 

It truly is a house of the Lord.

 

 

Walking the grounds at dusk is a must.

 

 

 

I am so grateful for the Lord's Houses that are once again upon the earth.  The peace that is found herein is like no other, and I cherish my opportunity to serve, learn, and grow through visiting the temple.

“Choose you this day whom ye will serve; … but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

Joshua 24:15

Beginning the Work...The Great Work

On Saturday August 22nd, at 3 o'clock in the afternoon, we commenced the work for my Grandpa Lopez and other ancestors in the Sacramento Temple.

It was an absolutely gorgeous day, and one that Samuel and I greatly anticipated. I am so grateful to have the blessing of my Grandma and Grandpa in doing the work for our family members.

To be able to do this work at all, is a great blessing in and of itself.

Samuel and I outside the temple.
I'm loving the Marilyn Monroe breeze!

Joe & Jessica

Gary, Houston, & Elizabeth

A family picture with Gary and Clista.

Sisters: Clista & Patti

Uncle Ron & Aunt Patti

We are so grateful for all the family in attendance. Your love and support mean the world to us. I can picture my Grandpa, choked up with emotion, appalled to have "such a fuss" made over him, but pleased nonetheless.

Afterwards we dined at Tahoe Joe's-they have the absolute best clam chowder this far inland!-and just...
savored the special day.

We love you Grandpa Lopez!

On Saturday May 14th we visited the cemetery for my grandpa's one-year anniversary.

We love you grandpa!

Next stop:
The Temple!

Sacramento Temple Photo Shoot

Is there a more a more beautiful spot to take pictures than on the grounds of the temple?

No matter the season, the temple is always a little piece of heaven on earth.

If you've never been but would like to go, let us know and we'd be happy to take you!