We began this 2 week adventure Thursday morning. We drove from Charlotte to Nashville on day 1 and spent the evening with our friends the
Allens. The kids enjoyed a much needed time of playing in the backyard after 8 hours in the car.
Friday we left at 5:00 AM in hopes of making it to our final destination in TX by dinner time. However, with all the food and bathroom stops it took us a bit longer than planned....3 hours longer than planned. Ugh! It was a long day, but we arrived safely.
Saturday we enjoyed the Blooming Grove July 4th Parade. It lasted 10 minutes. :) After the parade there was a flag raising and singing of patriotic songs followed by some refreshments and fun activities for the boys. Tonya enjoyed her first (of many, I'm sure) snow cone of the trip. Later that night we enjoyed a very patriotic meal consisting of beef brisket sandwiches, potato salad, baked beans, etc. It was yummy! We concluded the day by shooting a ridiculous number of fireworks. Well, everyone except Caleb and I. He is terrified of fireworks...so we went inside and watched
Cars. I was able to go back outside at the end and watch my stepfather drop what appeared to be a small WMD in his pond on their property. Let's just say there's definitely nothing alive in the pond anymore.
Sunday we enjoyed a great afternoon at the lake. Caleb and Ella had their first experience on the boat and Josh braved the tube. We were having a great time until we heard thunder. We hauled everyone back into the boat and headed for the dock. As we approached the dock it began to sprinkle. By the time the boat was on the trailer and being pulled out of the lake, it was pouring! As I carried kids one at time from the boat to the van we all got soaked, as did the inside of the van. Wet van + 100 degrees = funny smell.
Monday afternoon we tried the lake again. Everyone got a chance to enjoy the water this time. Josh tubed again, this time with his Aunt Nicole. I found a way to get up on the skis and Nicole displayed her mad skills on the wakeboard and surfboard. Good times.
Mix in some movies, Wii and Mexican food and you've experienced all there is to mention of days 1-5. Another update coming soon.
...A very memorable Father's Day dinner. 