The plan was to spend the day exploring downtown Salt Lake. Nature had other plans. Morning became very dark and very windy. And then the rain began. BOOM! Lightning, thunder seldom see in California made a good show ... from inside the coach. No sightseeing this morning, but a good opportunity for housekeeping and reorganizing our possessions to make life more enjoyable.
Nature also has a way of enhancing our trip. Mid-afternoon, the skies cleared, the temperature had dropped to the low 70s and the strong wind became a light breeze. This was perfect for a ten minute drive to downtown Salt Lake and its wide streets with so little traffic that we felt we had the city to ourselves. A visit to "The Gallery", an attractive two story, outdoor shopping mall incorporating the historic Union Station was a highlight. While completely empty, the main lobby of the station is decorated with murals and stained glass windows depicting the Old West. Back lit by the afternoon sun, the windows were a visual treat.
Dinner at Lamb's, the oldest continuously operating restaurant in Utah, complete with original furnishings and antiques, provided comfort food. No nouvelle cuisine here, but definitely a calm, enjoyable dining experience.
The highlight was to come when we walked into Temple Square and viewed the Mormon Tabernacle, Conference Center and surrounding buildings. Paths through the abundant trees and flowering gardens encouraged serenity. We entered one smaller church to enjoy a men's choral group, and another building where an organist was practicing.
At 8pm, we began to experience the primary reason for being in Salt Lake on a Thursday evening: Witnessing the rehearsing Mormon Tabernacle Choir and accompanying Orchestra. My words and pictures cannot adequately describe how the efforts of more than 400 singers and musicians lifted our spirits. Absolutely awesome. With the backdrop of the numerous (and enormous) organ pipes, the all volunteer group gave us their renditions of "Oklahoma's" 'Oh What a Beautiful Morning', plus "Morning Has Risen", and one exquisitely delivered hymn.
At the conclusion of the 90 minute rehearsal, we were treated to a clear sky with a half moon rising above the pristine white, multi-spired Temple. Like the rising voices of the choir, the moon gave us a special lift and an ending to a very special day in Salt Lake.
Tomorrow morning, we leave for Wyoming, taking beautiful memories of Utah with us.
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