Solar Eclipse

Today we got to see a  solar eclipse! They've referred to it as the Great American Eclipse as it spanned across the entirety of the continental US. At 1:18pm, we were in the path of totality in a park next to the temple and we got to see the sun completely blocked by the moon. We saw one bright star (which was presumably a planet) and felt the temperature drop about 10 degrees. As it approached the light all around turned to an other-worldly pinkish hue. Finally it happened. The light dispersed, a star came out, and the brilliance of the sun's corona stretched across the sky. The bluish, pinkish streaks of light eminating from behind the moon was truely astronomical and beautiful. It was as though the heavens came down to let us see them, almost within hand's reach. 

Annalyn was able to watch with her class at school, which she loved. Declan and Walter were with us. Luckily we were able to wait in the car as it was so hot out.

Earlier this week too, on Saturday, Rachel and I got the opportunity to visit the King Tut exhibit at the St Louis Science Center.

We had tried before a few weeks ago with the kids, but that turned out to bedisastrous, as the crowds and the dark was too much for them, Walter in particular.

But going back was well worth it. Everything that was discovered in his tomb had been recreated. I even found out the ancient Egyptians used dovetails in some of their woodwork! Full-sized shrines, all 3 coffins and the death mask, hoards of treasure and  artifacts were amazing to see. The scale of his burial was very surprising to see all at once.

He was even buried with thrones and chariots!

We feel lucky to live where such world-class exhibits come on such a regular basis.

In other news this week, Annalyn has just gotten over a cold, to which she has passed on to both her brothers. We're not looking forward to what we assume will be a night filled with crying, runny noses, and headaches. We will be praying hard tonight.