This is a post mainly for my Mormon readers.

I have very exciting news!  Today in Carmel, Indiana (just outside of Indianapolis) they dedicated a temple for my church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (or the LDS part of Smilingldsgirl).

This is important to me because I served my mission in Indiana from 2003-2005.  Back then I could never have imagined a temple in Indianapolis because there were so many nearby (2 in Illinois, 1 in Kentucky 1 in Iowa, 1 in Michigan etc).  My mission was a great experience but it was incredibly challenging.  I can honestly say I left it all out there and gave m all spiritually, physically and mentally.  I’m not saying I was perfect but just that I did the best I could and I had a confirmation from Heavenly Father when I was done that he accepted my effort.

So you can imagine how thrilled I was when I heard the news of the temple way back in 2010.  But then it seemed to be taking forever to even get construction started so I started to wonder if it would ever happen.  I’m not sure what kind of difficulties they had because typically temples go from announced to built much more quickly.

However, I’m just so excited that it is done and the great work can go on there for the Hoosiers I love so much.  They are a giving, loving people who are deeply involved in community, churches and civic organizations.  I’ve never lived anywhere where high school and college sports was that important.  Anything that could be cheered on and celebrated was whether it was Indy Car racing or Notre Dame football.  It was deeply felt and passionate like nowhere I had ever seen before.  I can only imagine when that fervor gets turned to temple work what great things will be done.

Seeing the Indianapolis Temple makes me want to renew my goal to go to the temple more as I am far to quick to let that slip.  And the sad part is I really need it.  It’s such a peaceful, quiet, lovely place and really is my sanctuary from the world.  I’m so happy that my Hoosier friends will have such a place for them to commune with the Lord.

I do have a witness of this work and the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  I know the Book of Mormon is the word of God through a spiritual witness and it is my greatest desire to serve Him each day.  I know Jesus died for me and has suffered for my sins and shortcomings.

Congrats to my Indiana Mormon friends!  I love you!