Somewhere around 5:00 everything finally stopped. Jon got up, but the kids and I slept in until 8:00. I think we all needed it. Wylie apologized to me for wetting the bed. Poor, sweet girl! Jan made us oatmeal with golden raisins-one of our favorite Jan meals! Jon fixed the sprinkler heads while the kids and I started packing everything up. Cade really wanted to be outside helping his dad, so he was a peel, but Wylie is a good little helper. We finished, but Jon was still working, so the kids played restaurant while we waited. There's only so many meals I can think of to order and so many times I can pretend to eat and drink before I get a little crazy. We said good-byes to Jan a little after 11:00. While we were backing out of her drive way Cade said very clearly, "Bye-By Grandma." That's the first time he has ever said Grandma!! We picked up some drive thru food for lunch and hit the road. Cade was back asleep shortly after eating and slept the rest of the drive. Wylie dozed off and on, but was good the whole time. Near La Junta, about 30 minute from the farm, Jon started telling me his brain was over heating. I thought he just meant he was hot. A while later he complained of his feet being cold, so I laughed at him about the driving getting to him. A while later he asked me if my brain was over hearting. I said no, but he asked me again a few minutes later. I started getting concerned and asked if he was OK. He said yes, but kept asking about brains over heating & weirding me out. Finally he said, "Don't you remember we read that's why we yawn, because our brains are over heating." Seriously, this whole time he was talking about yawning and I though he was going to need medical attention! I started having a laughing fit, tears were coming out of my eyes and I just couldn't stop!
We got to my Dad's house and the kids had him moving for the rest of the night. They were chasing cats, toads and bugs, checking on the cows, going on walks, you name it, they had him doing it! I made sour cream burritos and finally got everyone inside for dinner. Then Dad took the kids in to see his girlfriend, Janet. They played with her granddaughter and chased more toads. Jon and I enjoyed a quiet house for 1 1/2 hours! I text my Dad about an hour after they left to make sure everything was OK. He replied that he and Janet went out and left the kids with Alissa. I called just to make sure he was pulling my leg and didn't really leave my children with someone I don't know. His reply was, "Well, yeah, she's seven, so I figured it was OK." No he really didn't leave the kids, he just likes giving me grief!
The kids got home around 8:30 and went down fairly easy, but the house is a disaster!
Shout Out:
-Grandma Jan for all you do for us and the love you give us.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Day 31- 2nd Annual Routh Famiy & Friends BBQ
Cade had another rough night. The poor boy is having nightmares again. We had fruit and yogurt with toast for breakfast. Eating so many fruits and veggies the last few days has been refreshing. Once we were ready the 4 of us went shopping for the BBQ and Sara's shower. A great deal of it was done at the Dollar Tree and the rest of it at Wal-Mart. I really do enjoy finding a good bargain and generally I would say I really do not enjoy the clientele at Wal-Mart, but this trip was tolerable. Poor Jon got stuck with Cade since Wylie wanted to help me with Pippi's shower. Cade just does not enjoy shopping and vocalizes it by screaming. All this while Jon had a bad headache.
We got back for lunch. Wylie complained of not wanting to eat and just wanting to go to sleep. Jon laid down with both kids & I went out to run the last few errands. When I returned the dogs barked and woke Wylie up. She cam upstairs and had to "cough." Apparently "cough" means throw up because she threw up all over the sofa. We got her into the kitchen and she kept throwing up in the trash can. Jon cleaned the sofa & I tried to get her to sleep again, but no dice. She then had diarrhea and proclaimed that now everything came out and she felt better.
I got the last minute things ready for the BBQ then we hung out until it was time to go to the park. Jan reserved our spot a few months ago and it's perfect for us right now. It's right by the playground and with as many little kids as we all have, that's perfect. We had a great time and enjoyed getting together with those who could make it. We had WAY too much food, which is my MO thanks to my mom. The kids played themselves silly and the adults got to talk, laugh and relax a bit. Cade found a large lady buy on a spring pole that he could rock back and forth in. He spent most of his time there when he wasn't trying to do everything the big kids were doing. Wylie loved hanging out with "the big girl Bella."
We got home around 9:30 and put the kids to bed. Somewhere shortly after midnight, Wylie woke me up to say she pottied in her panties. She NEVER does this. I think she really is getting sick. I got her cleaned up, got Cade in a safe spot, then spent the rest of the night comforting both of them for one reason or another....Calgon take me away!!!
Shout Outs:
-The Baker, Shaw and Ambroso families for joining us at the park for burgers!
We got back for lunch. Wylie complained of not wanting to eat and just wanting to go to sleep. Jon laid down with both kids & I went out to run the last few errands. When I returned the dogs barked and woke Wylie up. She cam upstairs and had to "cough." Apparently "cough" means throw up because she threw up all over the sofa. We got her into the kitchen and she kept throwing up in the trash can. Jon cleaned the sofa & I tried to get her to sleep again, but no dice. She then had diarrhea and proclaimed that now everything came out and she felt better.
I got the last minute things ready for the BBQ then we hung out until it was time to go to the park. Jan reserved our spot a few months ago and it's perfect for us right now. It's right by the playground and with as many little kids as we all have, that's perfect. We had a great time and enjoyed getting together with those who could make it. We had WAY too much food, which is my MO thanks to my mom. The kids played themselves silly and the adults got to talk, laugh and relax a bit. Cade found a large lady buy on a spring pole that he could rock back and forth in. He spent most of his time there when he wasn't trying to do everything the big kids were doing. Wylie loved hanging out with "the big girl Bella."
We got home around 9:30 and put the kids to bed. Somewhere shortly after midnight, Wylie woke me up to say she pottied in her panties. She NEVER does this. I think she really is getting sick. I got her cleaned up, got Cade in a safe spot, then spent the rest of the night comforting both of them for one reason or another....Calgon take me away!!!
Shout Outs:
-The Baker, Shaw and Ambroso families for joining us at the park for burgers!
Friday, July 23, 2010
Day 30-Lions & Tigers & Bears, Oh My!
Everyone slept well last night. Cade slept for 13 hours! Nothing too eventful this morning. The dogs still don't care much for Cade, but Wylie is OK since she will generally sit still. Wylie and Cade both had their usual 2 breakfasts. Cheerios with Jon and then Rock Ford cantaloupe and toast with the adults. We all got dressed and Jon and I took the kids to the Denver Zoo while Jan and the dogs enjoyed some peace and quiet. It was a really nice experience. It wasn't too hot this morning so many of the animal were active and the kids were great. Of course, we took the stroller for Cade but Miss Priss Wylie used it the majority of the time. Cade did enjoy pushing her though :-) I think the Denver Zoo is larger than the Portland Zoo because even I wanted a stroller by the end. Then again maybe I'm just way out of shape. After we were done looking at he animals we let each kid choose an item from the gift shop to use the money that Dee Dee gave them. Cade chose a decorative African egg that rattles and Wylie chose a cup with a twisty straw lid. We first had to drag her away from the make-up and polished rocks though. Seriously, how many polished rocks does one little girl need? I think she's obsessed. On our way back home I asked everyone what there favorite part of the zoo was:
Wylie-The monkey throwing up. (Gotta love a child's mind!)
Cade- Didn't vocalize anything that I could understand, but he was most interested in the construction for the Asian Tropics. Surprise, surprise, surprise.
Jon- The okapi. In his words they are giraffe face, donkey body, and zebra behind.
Lisa- The baby and mommy seal playing. I could have watched them for hours....but my family only allowed a couple minutes.
There was a lot of construction and traffic congestion on the way home so we took a detour through an historical district and saw a lot of big pretty houses. Cade started falling asleep, so we sang kid songs all the way home because I knew he couldn't resist doing the hand motions. Tricky, tricky, Mommy!! We got back and ate some left overs for lunch and then successfully put the kids and Jon down for nap.
Wylie and Cade spent the afternoon playing in the basement, Jon helped Jan with odds and ends, and I refereed. Dinner was grilled veggie sandwiches with Rocky Ford sweet corn. Then the kids took a bath. I put Cade down while the other 3 had strawberry shortcake for dessert. Wylie joined me when she was done eating and then I got my shortcake after she feel asleep. Another yummy day of food!
Jon learned of interesting happenings at his school. Luckily none of them have to do with him loosing his job. We talked to Jan a bit and then it was bed time for adults.
Shout Out:
-Jon for doing ALL of the driving our entire trip. He is gggrrreeaaaaatttt!
Wylie-The monkey throwing up. (Gotta love a child's mind!)
Cade- Didn't vocalize anything that I could understand, but he was most interested in the construction for the Asian Tropics. Surprise, surprise, surprise.
Jon- The okapi. In his words they are giraffe face, donkey body, and zebra behind.
Lisa- The baby and mommy seal playing. I could have watched them for hours....but my family only allowed a couple minutes.
There was a lot of construction and traffic congestion on the way home so we took a detour through an historical district and saw a lot of big pretty houses. Cade started falling asleep, so we sang kid songs all the way home because I knew he couldn't resist doing the hand motions. Tricky, tricky, Mommy!! We got back and ate some left overs for lunch and then successfully put the kids and Jon down for nap.
Wylie and Cade spent the afternoon playing in the basement, Jon helped Jan with odds and ends, and I refereed. Dinner was grilled veggie sandwiches with Rocky Ford sweet corn. Then the kids took a bath. I put Cade down while the other 3 had strawberry shortcake for dessert. Wylie joined me when she was done eating and then I got my shortcake after she feel asleep. Another yummy day of food!
Jon learned of interesting happenings at his school. Luckily none of them have to do with him loosing his job. We talked to Jan a bit and then it was bed time for adults.
Shout Out:
-Jon for doing ALL of the driving our entire trip. He is gggrrreeaaaaatttt!
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Day 29- The Day of "Never Happens"
It all started at 3:30 AM when I got hot and had a stuffy nose. I got so freaked out that I caused myself to start hyperventilating. I got out of bed, slowed down my breathing, opened a window and went to the computer to take my mind off of everything. I think it is just allergies, but man that was not a nice feeling. After blogging a bit and checking e-mail and Facebook, I tried to go back to sleep just in time for my sinuses to start draining. Forget it! I got up and talked to my Dad a little before he went to work then drank coffee and waited for the rest of the lazy bones to wake up so I could repack and get us to Denver. I am NEVER the first one up.....EVER....not even when I was younger living at home, in college, first starting teaching, or any time in between or since. I never understood the reasoning for getting out of bed early. By my calculations the earlier you put your feet on the floor the sooner you have to start working. No thank you! (As my darling Cade would say:-) I will have to admit though that there is a peacefulness of being in a quiet farm house with a morning chill coming in the window and hearing chirping from various birds and insects.
Jon an Wylie woke up around 6:00 and I think it weirded Wylie out to see me up already. She didn't talk for about 1/2 hour-NEVER HAPPENS! Once she did wake up she gave me a make-up application lesson. She showed me which brush to use in each powder, where and how to apply it on her face, how to close it all back up and then how to put on lip gloss. Thanks Pippi! Cade finally woke up, which allowed us to get packed and out of the house 2 hours earlier than expected-NEVER HAPPENS!
We drove up to Castle Rock to see my college friend, Kiffany, and her twins Max and Mia (sorry we didn't get to see Marc). We had some time to kill so we dined at Chipotle because you can never have too many rice and beans on a 6 week trip. Then we did a quick walk through of the Dollar Tree...Love that store! We got over to Kiff's around 12:00, which is really lunch and nap time for Max and Mia, but they are cute little troopers! They are little clones of their parents and so mild mannered it almost seems unfair :-) The kids played while we talked. It was really nice to see them. When Max and Mia went up for naps we headed on to Grandma Jan's. The kids slept only a very short time in the car and were in no frame of mind to take a nap when we got to Jan's house, so they were lots of fun this afternoon. Cade doesn't understand that some dogs don't want him in their face, so....he got bit on the nose :-) I don't mean to laugh, but seriously it's what he needs. No worries though, once we got the bleeding stopped he was right back at them! I think it was way more traumatic for Wylie. I had to take her down stairs and comfort her way longer than Cade needed comforting. Dinner was yummy Chinese food-Thanks, Jan!
Cade went down at 6:30 and Wylie by 7:10-NEVER HAPPENS! Jon, Jan and I were able to talk about the trip, see some of her amazing quilt work and enjoy some peace and quiet.
Shout Out:
-Max and Mia for being such good sports about 2 strangers coming in and playing with their toys and being so happy and good during lunch and nap time!
Cute Moment:
-Wylie crying because seeing blood on Cade scared her.
-Cade being concerned about Wylie's "ohwies" for the last 2 days.
They might like to fight with each other, but they don't really like to see the other one hurt :-)
Jon an Wylie woke up around 6:00 and I think it weirded Wylie out to see me up already. She didn't talk for about 1/2 hour-NEVER HAPPENS! Once she did wake up she gave me a make-up application lesson. She showed me which brush to use in each powder, where and how to apply it on her face, how to close it all back up and then how to put on lip gloss. Thanks Pippi! Cade finally woke up, which allowed us to get packed and out of the house 2 hours earlier than expected-NEVER HAPPENS!
We drove up to Castle Rock to see my college friend, Kiffany, and her twins Max and Mia (sorry we didn't get to see Marc). We had some time to kill so we dined at Chipotle because you can never have too many rice and beans on a 6 week trip. Then we did a quick walk through of the Dollar Tree...Love that store! We got over to Kiff's around 12:00, which is really lunch and nap time for Max and Mia, but they are cute little troopers! They are little clones of their parents and so mild mannered it almost seems unfair :-) The kids played while we talked. It was really nice to see them. When Max and Mia went up for naps we headed on to Grandma Jan's. The kids slept only a very short time in the car and were in no frame of mind to take a nap when we got to Jan's house, so they were lots of fun this afternoon. Cade doesn't understand that some dogs don't want him in their face, so....he got bit on the nose :-) I don't mean to laugh, but seriously it's what he needs. No worries though, once we got the bleeding stopped he was right back at them! I think it was way more traumatic for Wylie. I had to take her down stairs and comfort her way longer than Cade needed comforting. Dinner was yummy Chinese food-Thanks, Jan!
Cade went down at 6:30 and Wylie by 7:10-NEVER HAPPENS! Jon, Jan and I were able to talk about the trip, see some of her amazing quilt work and enjoy some peace and quiet.
Shout Out:
-Max and Mia for being such good sports about 2 strangers coming in and playing with their toys and being so happy and good during lunch and nap time!
Cute Moment:
-Wylie crying because seeing blood on Cade scared her.
-Cade being concerned about Wylie's "ohwies" for the last 2 days.
They might like to fight with each other, but they don't really like to see the other one hurt :-)
Day 28-Colorado Bound
I got up to Wylie looking for more "treasurers" for Alli's purse. Pippi's house is soooooooo much fun! Sara made breakfast burritos for us and Cade ate left over pancakes with gusto. One last make-up application for Wylie then we packed up and got back on the road bound for Colorado. The trees are getting shorter and weeds farther apart, so this terrain is more familiar to us than the rest of the trip has been. Jon is enjoying the dryer hot weather, but he thinks the stretch from Wichita to Las Animas is the worst of the entire trip. I would have to agree, but we both realize that it is partly due to the fact that it is so familiar to us. I dont' think there's even a curve in the road from Doge City on and there is definitely nothing new to look at. In fact, there's not much to look at except for flat fields and a few herd of cattle here and there. Now more interesting buildings, houses, or people. Cade on the other hand is keeping me quite busy. He is way high maintenance today and refuses to sleep much.
We joined the family tradition and had burgers and shakes at Braum's for lunch. It was yumminess, but I think our book on CD fell out while we were there. DANGIT! We went through Greensburg, KS, which was a small town wiped out by a tornado a few years ago that has decided to rebuild green. We've seen it on TV a few times, but had no idea we would be driving through it. It's impressive to think that a small farming community would have such initiative. It gives the Boulder/Portland girl in me goose bumps!!! We also went through another small town that had a quarter mile stretch on both highways going into the town filled with metal sculptures and funny windmills. We've seen a few on a property before, but this was CRAZY! If only we had room to take one back to Oregon...
We made a pit stop at Wal-Mart since Dad warned us that there was nothing to eat at the house. I don't much like the fact that I'm actually having to think about meals and work on this part of the trip, but I guess all good things must come to an end. We got to the farm at 6:00 and I put a Stouffer's mac & cheese in the over. Nothing but the best for my family :-) I did make a salad to go with it, just to make myself feel a little bit better. Wylie walked in and declared that the kids table needed to be cleaned, so she was hard at work too. Cade tried to help, but really he was just throwing EVERYTHING in the trash :-) I cleaned out the fridge, did some dishes & helped clean of the tables. Ahhhh, it's good to be home.
After dinner Wylie shared her little jello cups with everyone and then Granddad took the kids to check the water and check on the cows. Cade was super excited when he got back because he got to "drive" the pick-up. Wylie was relieved that the cows finally went where they were suppose to and laughing at how silly they are. I'm super glad I don't have to live farm life anymore, but I'm super glad that my kids get to experience it. We all went to bed shortly after they came home and settled down a bit.
Words from a soon-to-be-4-year-old:
-When stopping for lunch she looks in her purse- "Mommy you can use my money to pay for ice cream because you probably don't have enough. that would be a good idea."
-While driving between Lamar & Las Animas- "Whoa, you know what? I can see far, far, far over there!" Welcome to the Great Plains little one!
-Without any prompting from me- "Mommy we need to clean Granddad's house before he gets home because it gets messy. Then when he comes home he will say, 'Wow, my house is clean!' That would be a good idea."
-After waking up from her nap- "How about the girls go with Granddad to get some goodies and the boys stay home to watch the cows. Then we will bring goodies back for the boys and the cows because Granddad likes goodies." She does know her Granddad!
We joined the family tradition and had burgers and shakes at Braum's for lunch. It was yumminess, but I think our book on CD fell out while we were there. DANGIT! We went through Greensburg, KS, which was a small town wiped out by a tornado a few years ago that has decided to rebuild green. We've seen it on TV a few times, but had no idea we would be driving through it. It's impressive to think that a small farming community would have such initiative. It gives the Boulder/Portland girl in me goose bumps!!! We also went through another small town that had a quarter mile stretch on both highways going into the town filled with metal sculptures and funny windmills. We've seen a few on a property before, but this was CRAZY! If only we had room to take one back to Oregon...
We made a pit stop at Wal-Mart since Dad warned us that there was nothing to eat at the house. I don't much like the fact that I'm actually having to think about meals and work on this part of the trip, but I guess all good things must come to an end. We got to the farm at 6:00 and I put a Stouffer's mac & cheese in the over. Nothing but the best for my family :-) I did make a salad to go with it, just to make myself feel a little bit better. Wylie walked in and declared that the kids table needed to be cleaned, so she was hard at work too. Cade tried to help, but really he was just throwing EVERYTHING in the trash :-) I cleaned out the fridge, did some dishes & helped clean of the tables. Ahhhh, it's good to be home.
After dinner Wylie shared her little jello cups with everyone and then Granddad took the kids to check the water and check on the cows. Cade was super excited when he got back because he got to "drive" the pick-up. Wylie was relieved that the cows finally went where they were suppose to and laughing at how silly they are. I'm super glad I don't have to live farm life anymore, but I'm super glad that my kids get to experience it. We all went to bed shortly after they came home and settled down a bit.
Words from a soon-to-be-4-year-old:
-When stopping for lunch she looks in her purse- "Mommy you can use my money to pay for ice cream because you probably don't have enough. that would be a good idea."
-While driving between Lamar & Las Animas- "Whoa, you know what? I can see far, far, far over there!" Welcome to the Great Plains little one!
-Without any prompting from me- "Mommy we need to clean Granddad's house before he gets home because it gets messy. Then when he comes home he will say, 'Wow, my house is clean!' That would be a good idea."
-After waking up from her nap- "How about the girls go with Granddad to get some goodies and the boys stay home to watch the cows. Then we will bring goodies back for the boys and the cows because Granddad likes goodies." She does know her Granddad!
Day 27- Totally Tulsa
I woke up to giggles outside of the bedroom window. I cam out to find Jon lounging peacefully on the couch watching the Tour de France. The kids were outside making chalk drawings with Aunt Pippi. Them cam in as I was getting my cup of liquid wake-up and Wylie quickly told me all about her morning with Pippi. She already had a new pink purse filled with many "treasurers." Cade had treasurers of his own, but they were strung around the house. Sara asked what we wanted for breakfast and Wylie said vanilla pancakes. Ask and you shall receive at Aunt Pippi's house. After some more treasurer collecting we all got dressed and went to the Children's Museum. It's no as cool as the one in Portland, but the kids couldn't tell. They had lots of fun and we got free pizza, so all is well. I was a bit disturbed by a little girl of 8 or 9 who didn't know who Barack Obama was. Wylie even knows that he's the President! Oh well, get over it, Lisa. I'm not sure why I'm so surprised, but I am and it made me a bit sad. On the way there we got a driving tour of The University of Tulsa Campus and Sara pointed out where she use to work. On the way back we drove by an Extreme Makeover Home Edition house. It looks like the people are moving out of it.....huuuummmmm. We went home for nap, but there's not rest for the wicked-Cade! Instead I watched the Tour de France and Cade played with a mostly deflated graduation balloon...Good Times!
After everyone got up Wylie, Cade and Pippi went to the front step to greet Warren home from work. We decided to take a driving tour of the rest of Tulsa and then get some dinner. Cade was asleep in about 15 minutes-of course! We saw the Phillbrook Museum, which was mansion for the Phillips Oil founder it was a "hooge, hooge, hooge" (I realized a day or so ago that I have been misquoting Wylie's "huge") mansion on 23 acres. We also saw the middle point of North America. Jon stood at it, but I just looked from the back seat of the Pilot. Legend has it that your voice echos there because of the pulling forces of the poles. Jon admits it echos, but doesn't buy the myth. Our stance is that it's not the middle point of the entire world, just the North American Continent....not the same thing, people. From there went got to see Route 66, Cheery Street and some other very nice buildings and houses with cool architecture. I will have to say that Tulsa is much cooler and trendier than I give it credit for. We made a stop at Quick Trip. It's a convenient store that has been spoken of in legends. It's nice and large and has the most ample supply of mean on rollers that I have ever scene. I got Wylie and Strawberry Banana smoothie that she raved about for the rest of the trip. It's nice to be able to make 3 year olds so happy so easily. Our tour ended across the street from the University at Taco Bueno. It was bueno. Much better than Taco Bell. Sara and Warren are a little embarrassed that our dining went from plump shrimp and lobster to tomato soup & Taco Bueno, but it's what we wanted :-)
We came home & Warren threw the kids around awhile while I blogged and Pippi made treats for movie time. I tried to just give Wylie a bath, but Cade looked at me sadly and said, "Me too" while hitting his chest. I often forget that he truly understands what is going on. He's suppose to be my little baby, not such a big boy. After a quick bath the kids went out to eat their pudding and drink juice then they settled down on a bed of pillows made by Warren to watch The Princess and the Frog. The watched about 1/2 before Cade went down. A little more and Wylie joined us. By the time I came out of the bedroom Sara and Warren were in bed. I think my kids wore them out! Good night, Tulsa!
Shout Out:
-Warren and Sara for filling all of our culinary desires and showing us such a fun time in only 1 1/2 days!
After everyone got up Wylie, Cade and Pippi went to the front step to greet Warren home from work. We decided to take a driving tour of the rest of Tulsa and then get some dinner. Cade was asleep in about 15 minutes-of course! We saw the Phillbrook Museum, which was mansion for the Phillips Oil founder it was a "hooge, hooge, hooge" (I realized a day or so ago that I have been misquoting Wylie's "huge") mansion on 23 acres. We also saw the middle point of North America. Jon stood at it, but I just looked from the back seat of the Pilot. Legend has it that your voice echos there because of the pulling forces of the poles. Jon admits it echos, but doesn't buy the myth. Our stance is that it's not the middle point of the entire world, just the North American Continent....not the same thing, people. From there went got to see Route 66, Cheery Street and some other very nice buildings and houses with cool architecture. I will have to say that Tulsa is much cooler and trendier than I give it credit for. We made a stop at Quick Trip. It's a convenient store that has been spoken of in legends. It's nice and large and has the most ample supply of mean on rollers that I have ever scene. I got Wylie and Strawberry Banana smoothie that she raved about for the rest of the trip. It's nice to be able to make 3 year olds so happy so easily. Our tour ended across the street from the University at Taco Bueno. It was bueno. Much better than Taco Bell. Sara and Warren are a little embarrassed that our dining went from plump shrimp and lobster to tomato soup & Taco Bueno, but it's what we wanted :-)
We came home & Warren threw the kids around awhile while I blogged and Pippi made treats for movie time. I tried to just give Wylie a bath, but Cade looked at me sadly and said, "Me too" while hitting his chest. I often forget that he truly understands what is going on. He's suppose to be my little baby, not such a big boy. After a quick bath the kids went out to eat their pudding and drink juice then they settled down on a bed of pillows made by Warren to watch The Princess and the Frog. The watched about 1/2 before Cade went down. A little more and Wylie joined us. By the time I came out of the bedroom Sara and Warren were in bed. I think my kids wore them out! Good night, Tulsa!
Shout Out:
-Warren and Sara for filling all of our culinary desires and showing us such a fun time in only 1 1/2 days!
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Day 26-Hit the Road Jack!
The alarm went off at 5:00 and it was time to start the process all over again. We finished packing and hit the road to Tulsa! Poor little Cade woke up while I was showering and Jon was packing the car. Jon came in to find him standing in the hall with his shoes in his hands. He didn't want us to forget him. I don't realize how much he really understands until times like this. We had cereal with the Clodfelters then said good-byes. Onward to Tulsa!!!
Garmin changed directions on us without us realizing so we didn't get into Arkansas like we were suppose to....DANGIT! We did get to see lots of little towns in Texas, which helped me hate it a little less. We stopped at Wendy's for lunch and got each kid their own kid's meal. This was a big treat for them and you would have thought we gave them each a $100 bill! It's a good thing we did though because the toy was a microphone. Jon and I thought it was just a piece of plastic, so we were quite startled when Cade was yelling in it and it echoed his voice like a real mic! Wylie sang many songs both real and made-up, Cade just yells to hear himself yell.
We arrived at Sara (aka Pippi) and Warren's around 5:00. Dinner was tomato soup and grilled cheese per Wylie's request. After dinner we went to Peach Wave, which is a frozen yogurt shop that is a child's delight. You can mix any of the yogurts you want and then choose which ever toppings you want. You pay per ounce, so load up boys! Cade and I had a mango and pomegranate waffle cone topped with kiwi, strawberries, cookie dough pieces and marshmallow cream YUM! We met Sara's law school friend, Sarah Webber, she's a sweet girl who I think has been kept in her apartment studying too much lately. She has read this blog religiously and knows more about our trip than my Sara does :-) We then went to "Warren's trucks" aka the Kenworth Dealership. Wylie and Cade got to climb in a big rig cab, drive with Warren, and pull the air breaks and horn. They had more fun there than an amusement park. We went into Warren's office and Cade got a "truck book" and Wylie got a flashlight. Seriously, who needs Disneyland and Mickey Mouse when you have Kenworth trucks and Warren.
Finally it was home for bedtime.
Funny Sights:
-60' tall metal sparklers and palm trees and across the road a 60' tall man made out of terra cota planters
-In a small town in Texas a fire truck (old school with big belly tank on a truck) cam out with sirens on. People just kept going in front of it and finally it got across the highway. Then, people started passing it. It came up to a slight right turn to exit and it had to press on it's breaks so hard because it was so heavy that it locked up. There was just a little old man driving it and it was as if everyone was saying, "Oh, there goes Old Man Smith taking the fire engine out again with the sirens on." It was a crazy sight, but I'm glad it's not my fire station!
Shout Outs:
-Sara for being a good little sister and noticing my tan that most would think was a normal person's skin tone in December.
-Sarah Webber for being my biggest blogging fan!
Thanks for making me feel good girls! Best of luck on your bar exam next week!!!!
Garmin changed directions on us without us realizing so we didn't get into Arkansas like we were suppose to....DANGIT! We did get to see lots of little towns in Texas, which helped me hate it a little less. We stopped at Wendy's for lunch and got each kid their own kid's meal. This was a big treat for them and you would have thought we gave them each a $100 bill! It's a good thing we did though because the toy was a microphone. Jon and I thought it was just a piece of plastic, so we were quite startled when Cade was yelling in it and it echoed his voice like a real mic! Wylie sang many songs both real and made-up, Cade just yells to hear himself yell.
We arrived at Sara (aka Pippi) and Warren's around 5:00. Dinner was tomato soup and grilled cheese per Wylie's request. After dinner we went to Peach Wave, which is a frozen yogurt shop that is a child's delight. You can mix any of the yogurts you want and then choose which ever toppings you want. You pay per ounce, so load up boys! Cade and I had a mango and pomegranate waffle cone topped with kiwi, strawberries, cookie dough pieces and marshmallow cream YUM! We met Sara's law school friend, Sarah Webber, she's a sweet girl who I think has been kept in her apartment studying too much lately. She has read this blog religiously and knows more about our trip than my Sara does :-) We then went to "Warren's trucks" aka the Kenworth Dealership. Wylie and Cade got to climb in a big rig cab, drive with Warren, and pull the air breaks and horn. They had more fun there than an amusement park. We went into Warren's office and Cade got a "truck book" and Wylie got a flashlight. Seriously, who needs Disneyland and Mickey Mouse when you have Kenworth trucks and Warren.
Finally it was home for bedtime.
Funny Sights:
-60' tall metal sparklers and palm trees and across the road a 60' tall man made out of terra cota planters
-In a small town in Texas a fire truck (old school with big belly tank on a truck) cam out with sirens on. People just kept going in front of it and finally it got across the highway. Then, people started passing it. It came up to a slight right turn to exit and it had to press on it's breaks so hard because it was so heavy that it locked up. There was just a little old man driving it and it was as if everyone was saying, "Oh, there goes Old Man Smith taking the fire engine out again with the sirens on." It was a crazy sight, but I'm glad it's not my fire station!
Shout Outs:
-Sara for being a good little sister and noticing my tan that most would think was a normal person's skin tone in December.
-Sarah Webber for being my biggest blogging fan!
Thanks for making me feel good girls! Best of luck on your bar exam next week!!!!
Day 25-Magazine Street
The kids were horrid last night! Wylie woke up when Cade steam rolled her and pushed her off of the Aerobed at about 2:00 AM. From then on she stayed awake asking for hugs, me to sleep with her, want wanting to watch cartoons. Jon finally got her up when he got her up around 5:30. I woke up to a quiche breakfast! I just can't get enough of this pampering. I feel like a real Prima Donna! We all slowly got around after the kids played in the down pour with Uncle Jeremy and we started the clean up process a little. Then we headed to Magazine Street. We rode the street car just like Princess Tiana in The Princess and The Frog. The kids LOVED it! The girls thought they were princesses and Cade liked being on a train and sticking his hands and head out of the widow, which scared me half to death because the trees and posts were so close to the streetcar. I just new I would be making a trip to the emergency room before the ride was over. Jon and Jeremy followed us in the car so we could be picked up when the kids got restless and Wylie and Cade spotted them way before anyone else 2 different times. It went off track 2 times and the driver obviously did not like her job at all. She only said something to bark at a rider ( I was one of them because I over paid). We got off on the second break down because it took quite a while and Jon and Jeremy were close by. We then drove down Magazine Street, which is the English version of the French Quarter. It was a bit like Hawthorn Street in Portland, but most stores were closed because it was Sunday, so we just drove. Our plan was to have lunch at Surrey's (Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives), but it was so hoppin that we figured it wouldn't be a great place for the kids. Instead we ate at an award winning bakery. The downside was they only had quiche and danishes when we got there. The upside was it was way good! The next stop was Creole Creamery for some crazy flavored ice cream. Bosc Pear with Balsamic Caramel Sauce, Chocolate Amaretto Cheesecake, Chocolate Peanut butter, Oatmeal Cookie with Molasses, mint, strawberry & cookies and cream were the flavors of choice. The kids had their scoops made into clown faces and, yep, Cade ate it all! They were all really good. Jon wasn't super psyched about his choice, but he managed to eat it all still :-) Back home for naps, but none for Cade=none for me....dang kid!
Instead of napping, I did laundry and started packing what I could. Jaimie and Jeremy pushed out out of the house for one last dinner in peace and quite. It was very nice of them, but I think they are crazy for wanting to take on all of the kids again. Jeremy made us reservations at Copeland's Cheesecake Bistro. Copeland was the founder of Popeye's and he just recently died. We saw his mausoleumum at the cemetery on Tuesday. We ate more good food-crawfish & crab bake for appetizer, shrimp and girts for me, jambalaya pasta for Jon. We finished off our evening with cheesecake of course. Killed by Chocolate for Jon and a Black & White for me-YUMMMM! We decided to take cheesecake and our left overs home for Jaimie and Jeremy. It's the least we could do. We walked in to see Cade and Jeremy playing with a remote control car. Fun times for Cade. He was all smiles. The good part of him not taking a nap is that he went down way easy! Wylie was a bit of a challenge and indecisive if she wanted to sleep by herself or with us. She finally decided on her own and did well all night. Jaimie, Jeremy, Jon and I all talked a bit and then it was bed time for all.
Shout Out:
-Clodfelter Family for a fabulous time in the Big Easy! You guys are great!!!!
Instead of napping, I did laundry and started packing what I could. Jaimie and Jeremy pushed out out of the house for one last dinner in peace and quite. It was very nice of them, but I think they are crazy for wanting to take on all of the kids again. Jeremy made us reservations at Copeland's Cheesecake Bistro. Copeland was the founder of Popeye's and he just recently died. We saw his mausoleumum at the cemetery on Tuesday. We ate more good food-crawfish & crab bake for appetizer, shrimp and girts for me, jambalaya pasta for Jon. We finished off our evening with cheesecake of course. Killed by Chocolate for Jon and a Black & White for me-YUMMMM! We decided to take cheesecake and our left overs home for Jaimie and Jeremy. It's the least we could do. We walked in to see Cade and Jeremy playing with a remote control car. Fun times for Cade. He was all smiles. The good part of him not taking a nap is that he went down way easy! Wylie was a bit of a challenge and indecisive if she wanted to sleep by herself or with us. She finally decided on her own and did well all night. Jaimie, Jeremy, Jon and I all talked a bit and then it was bed time for all.
Shout Out:
-Clodfelter Family for a fabulous time in the Big Easy! You guys are great!!!!
Day 24-Global Wildlife
Jon woke up nice and gently. Wylie came in soon as she saw the door open to let me know she slept all night by her big girl self & she's going to do it all the nights...we'll see :-) I was greeted by Cade at the table. He was on plate #3 of Dutch baby with blueberries, bananas and yogurt. I am not looking forward to his teenage years. We all go dressed and back in the car to Global Wildlife (camels, giraffes, deer, etc.) to feed some animals. Along the way I talked to Grandma Miller and her double mastectomy was a success and she feels great. I also got a text from Aunt Nancy saying that Uncle David will need to see a hand surgeon for his thumb and will have weekly check-ups until then. We drove 20 miles on a bridge over Lake Pontrachain-ENORMOUS!
Cade's eyes lit up as soon as we drove through the gates at Global Wildlife. He was pointing all over the place and jabbering up a storm. It was a great experience all around. We rode on a wagon pulled by a tractor, which would have been enough, but we also got to feed the animals as they came up to the wagon. There were many types of deer, rhea birds (like a small ostrich), bison, zebras, camels, a Texas Longhorn and other cattle, and Cape Elem (like big, strong cattle). Some of the animals ate out of our cups and some off the ground. Wylie didn't much like feeding directly out of the cup like Cade did, but she did like sprinkling it on the ground and watching them eat beneath us. The adults were disappointed that we couldn't see the giraffes up close and feed them out of our hand because one was in labor, but the kids could have cared less. All 4 kids were fast asleep within 5 minutes of being in the car. We stopped at Popeye's and New Orleans Original Daiquiri to take home for lunch. Cade and I took a nice long nap, then we all just had some good hang out time in the afternoon. There was a quick little birthday party for the big kids. Cade was in heaven with a Cars book and toy guitar from Aunt Jaimie and Uncle Jeremy. Then we decided to do a clean out the fridge night for dinner. It was bath and bed time for the kids. It was a very rough night for Cade, but Wylie went down easily after causing distress with her Dad for a while.
Keeping our finger crossed for the giraffe to have a healthy baby and easy delivery!
Cade's eyes lit up as soon as we drove through the gates at Global Wildlife. He was pointing all over the place and jabbering up a storm. It was a great experience all around. We rode on a wagon pulled by a tractor, which would have been enough, but we also got to feed the animals as they came up to the wagon. There were many types of deer, rhea birds (like a small ostrich), bison, zebras, camels, a Texas Longhorn and other cattle, and Cape Elem (like big, strong cattle). Some of the animals ate out of our cups and some off the ground. Wylie didn't much like feeding directly out of the cup like Cade did, but she did like sprinkling it on the ground and watching them eat beneath us. The adults were disappointed that we couldn't see the giraffes up close and feed them out of our hand because one was in labor, but the kids could have cared less. All 4 kids were fast asleep within 5 minutes of being in the car. We stopped at Popeye's and New Orleans Original Daiquiri to take home for lunch. Cade and I took a nice long nap, then we all just had some good hang out time in the afternoon. There was a quick little birthday party for the big kids. Cade was in heaven with a Cars book and toy guitar from Aunt Jaimie and Uncle Jeremy. Then we decided to do a clean out the fridge night for dinner. It was bath and bed time for the kids. It was a very rough night for Cade, but Wylie went down easily after causing distress with her Dad for a while.
Keeping our finger crossed for the giraffe to have a healthy baby and easy delivery!
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Day 23-Swamp Lands
I woke up to Jon refusing to let me get a cup of coffee. Before I knew it I had all three kids on top of me and Wylie was "gluing" me to the couch, gluing my mouth shut and taking my glasses away. Ahhh, what a perfect start to the day :-) I soon realized that it really was for my own good when Jeremy walked in the door with Community Coffee lattes. They were YumO! Once I was able to wake up properly and get three kids and myself dressed and ready to go we headed out to a National "Forest" (swamp lands) in hopes to see some big bugs and alligators. The weather was surprisingly nice due to a rain storm that blew through earlier in the morning. We didn't end up seeing any alligators, but there were plenty of spiders, lizards, frogs and dragon flies to keep the kids entertained. We saw both a frog and spider having a breakfast feast and a large black grasshopper looking thing just waiting to make it's move. Mom would have been quite upset and the number of plant and animal pics I took vs the number of kid pics, but it was all so cool. Lunch was at The Rivershack. Jon and I had seen it on TV a few years ago, got Jaimie and Jeremy a gift certificate and they've been hooked since. It's a little dive bar that looks non-descript from the outside, but inside there are bar stools that look like legs and butts and they are the home of the "ugly ashtray". Their chef does daily specials for lunch and that is what Jaimie and Jeremy swear by. The three adults got Turtle Soup and Buttermilk Crusted Pork Chops. We got sides of fried shrimp, fried pickles, and sweet potato fries for the kids to share. We were almost done with the meal when downpour hit. Thankfully there was an umbrella over us to protect all of the yummy food while we scrambled to get kids in the car, pay the bill and get to-go boxes. We came home for nap, but had no luck with Cade since he slept from the swamp to the restaurant.
Jon got a call from David Douglas and his job is safe for next year WHOOOO HOOOOO!!! There is much relief in this safety net. I tried to talk Cade into watching Muppets in Space with me, but instead he decided to terrorize the house. He really doesn't mean to make such noise and be so hard and rough with everything-he just is.
After Jaimie got home we planned on going to a seafood place for dinner. Unfortunately it's closed for vacation. Instead we went to a grocery store to get shrimp, went to the drive thru daiquiri place for drinks and then to a pastry shop for a strawberry shortcake cake. Cade saw the dog eating a bone after dinner, so he had to as well. He is so boy. Wylie played her cards right. She swore that she really wanted a Popsicle and not a piece of cake, so she ate her Popsicle and then ate some of the cake from Jon and me. Cade went down pretty easy tonight-YEA! Allie gave Wylie a Hannah Montana night light and Wylie decided to give bed time alone another go. It took until 10:00 and many get ups for various reasons, but she did it without crying!!! What a big girl!!!
Shout out:
-Alli for giving Wylie what she's been missing all along! Now she can be a big girl like her other cousins!!!!
Jon got a call from David Douglas and his job is safe for next year WHOOOO HOOOOO!!! There is much relief in this safety net. I tried to talk Cade into watching Muppets in Space with me, but instead he decided to terrorize the house. He really doesn't mean to make such noise and be so hard and rough with everything-he just is.
After Jaimie got home we planned on going to a seafood place for dinner. Unfortunately it's closed for vacation. Instead we went to a grocery store to get shrimp, went to the drive thru daiquiri place for drinks and then to a pastry shop for a strawberry shortcake cake. Cade saw the dog eating a bone after dinner, so he had to as well. He is so boy. Wylie played her cards right. She swore that she really wanted a Popsicle and not a piece of cake, so she ate her Popsicle and then ate some of the cake from Jon and me. Cade went down pretty easy tonight-YEA! Allie gave Wylie a Hannah Montana night light and Wylie decided to give bed time alone another go. It took until 10:00 and many get ups for various reasons, but she did it without crying!!! What a big girl!!!
Shout out:
-Alli for giving Wylie what she's been missing all along! Now she can be a big girl like her other cousins!!!!
Friday, July 16, 2010
Day 22-Day at Home
Today we are taking it easy in The Big Easy. We are a family of 5 again and becoming a family of 6 tonight when Jaimie and Jeremy have their date night. It goes with out saying that I'm super excited about it and Jon is super not excited about it :-) We decided to switch things up and stay at home in the AM then make an outing in the afternoon. The kids played, I did laundry and Jon mowed the lawn so we could just focus on having fun this weekend and Jaimie and Jeremy wouldn't have to worry about doing house/yard work. Alli requested a lunch of cheese peas. Thankfully Jaimie had given me the translation earlier in the week in case she asked for it-quessadilla with peas inside. The kids gobbled it up. The girls went down for their nap easy. Cade, on the other hand, is working on being kicked out of the house. We spent 30 minutes wrestling, 15 minutes laying down/getting up/walking out/laying down..., 10 minutes mimicking my posture (way hard not to laugh), and the 5 minutes hugging/kissing/I love you/I'm sorry. After nap we took our outing. First stop was Borders to get their free books from the Double Dog Dare Summer Reading Program because Alli loves, loves, loves book stores. All three kids were way psyched about getting a "big kid" book, but Cade was the cutest of all. He walked around with it under his arm, then crouched down in the middle of the floor and started flipping through it like he was really reading. Let's hope this love of books continues. We then went to walk around the mall because it's one of Wylie's all time favorite past times. It was quite a sight when the three kids would all hold hands and hold on to one of ours. There were a lot of smiles and sympathetic looks directed our way, but the kids were good and everyone was happy. Our last stop was the LSU/Saints sport store to get Wylie a special bear so she will sleep by herself. She picked out a very plain, masculine looking brown bear with a gold fleur de lis on the belly. All three kids got silly bands, which you would think were made of gold.
We got back just in time for Jaimie and Jeremy to get ready for their big night out and for us to take over custody of Caleb. We ordered pizza for dinner. The girls chose Hawaiian and Chicken Pesto-good call! Caleb ate mashed potatoes, tofu with applesauce, and lots of pizza crust. That boy would eat all night long if we let him! After dinner there was a dance and singing performance. Watching 3 little kids first listen to a Bible story and then dance and sing along to "Jesus Loves Me" is too cute to handle no matter what your religious beliefs are! We had popsicles for after dinner treat and then put Caleb to bed. I love holding and kissing babies! Putting Cade to bed on the other hand I am completely over! He was a hellion once again. Alli goes down like a dream every time. In fact, Alli is a dream 90% of the time. She will just sit quietly and watch a whole movie or read books to herself for hours...ahhhhhh heaven. Wylie was very excited to go to bed by herself with her special Saints bear, until she said good night to her Daddy. FREAK OUT! I finally talked her into letting me sit at the bottom of the bed and she went to sleep much quicker than usual, so I guess that's a step in the right direction. For some reason she is convinced that all other parents will help their children in the middle of the night but we wont if we don't sleep right next to her...I love 3 year old brains. Needless to say the bear is put away until further notice. Jon and I vegged on the couch watching Antique Road Show. Jaimie and Jeremy came home from their fancy dinner at 9:00ish. Jaimie even took pictures of her pretty soup with her phone and is quite certain no one noticed. Jeremy walked her around the French Quarter about as much as he did Jon, but they didn't even get a drink out of the deal because the bar then\y were wanting was closed...bummmmer! Jaimie went to bed, I followed shortly later and Jon and Jeremy stayed up until who knows when playing video games. Vacation should be every day!
We got back just in time for Jaimie and Jeremy to get ready for their big night out and for us to take over custody of Caleb. We ordered pizza for dinner. The girls chose Hawaiian and Chicken Pesto-good call! Caleb ate mashed potatoes, tofu with applesauce, and lots of pizza crust. That boy would eat all night long if we let him! After dinner there was a dance and singing performance. Watching 3 little kids first listen to a Bible story and then dance and sing along to "Jesus Loves Me" is too cute to handle no matter what your religious beliefs are! We had popsicles for after dinner treat and then put Caleb to bed. I love holding and kissing babies! Putting Cade to bed on the other hand I am completely over! He was a hellion once again. Alli goes down like a dream every time. In fact, Alli is a dream 90% of the time. She will just sit quietly and watch a whole movie or read books to herself for hours...ahhhhhh heaven. Wylie was very excited to go to bed by herself with her special Saints bear, until she said good night to her Daddy. FREAK OUT! I finally talked her into letting me sit at the bottom of the bed and she went to sleep much quicker than usual, so I guess that's a step in the right direction. For some reason she is convinced that all other parents will help their children in the middle of the night but we wont if we don't sleep right next to her...I love 3 year old brains. Needless to say the bear is put away until further notice. Jon and I vegged on the couch watching Antique Road Show. Jaimie and Jeremy came home from their fancy dinner at 9:00ish. Jaimie even took pictures of her pretty soup with her phone and is quite certain no one noticed. Jeremy walked her around the French Quarter about as much as he did Jon, but they didn't even get a drink out of the deal because the bar then\y were wanting was closed...bummmmer! Jaimie went to bed, I followed shortly later and Jon and Jeremy stayed up until who knows when playing video games. Vacation should be every day!
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Day 21- 1/2 Way There
We are 1/2 way through out trip! I'm not sure if this a good thing or a bad thing right now :-)
Last night wasn't great. The kids were waking up all night and this morning was worse. Wylie wanted to get up at around 4:45 and she and Cade took turns from then on being awake and bothering us. My lovely, caring, wonderful, thoughtful husband finally got up with the kids and let me sleep in. I got up at 7:30 and took over kid duties. We got all 3 kids ready, got ourselves ready and loaded up. Our first stop was Winn Dixie to get milk, Gold Bond & hydrocortizone and to take a picture of Wylie in front of the store. Her favorite movie right now is Because of Winn Dixie, so she was really excited to see the grocery store where it all started. We then headed to the aquarium with great reservations about how the kids would hold up. They did great! We did some bribing with Twizzlers during both the ride and walk and that seemed to do the trick. I had a little malfunction getting a replacement card for Jaimie, but got 'er done. All 3 of them loved the aquarium and Cade didn't even want to be held much. He was much to excited to climb on all of the rocks and try to jump into the tanks. Wylie and Alli's favorite part were the "huge, huge, huge" (with arms spreading increasingly further apart with each "huge") sea turtles! There was marine life of all kinds and even a couple smaller sea turtles that were recently saved from the oil spill. After we made the full rounds in the aquarium, we made our way .3 of a mile (Garmin said so) to Mother's for lunch. It's been featured on many TV shows and Jeremy swears by their Po Boys. We were a little worse for wear, but we made it and the kids did great our our trek. Jon had the Ferdi's Special Po Boy (lots of meat with a sauce), I had a grilled shrimp Po Boy and the kids scarfed down lemonade and red beans & rice. It was a great experience and great food all around. The walk back to the car went well except Cade wanted to be held the whole time. I couldn't really blame his 2 year old legs for being hot and tired by that time. We went back home for....what else....nap!
After nap we had a treat of ice cream because it was National Ice Cream Day! Jeremy came home just in time to join us. Jon and I then got ready for our date night and left the crew with Jaimie and Jeremy at 5:00ish. We chose a restaurant int he Garden District because it seemed a little off beat and we weren't disappointed. The Garden District is where the English settled and the look and feel is much different than the French Quarter. The houses are large, Victorian estates. Even the small houses looked grand. Dinner was at Upperline. The art work was eclectic and placed haphazardly all over the restaurant. There was a pink floral painting in a large gold frame, next to a jazz poster from 1973, next to a water color painting of a wizard with a dog, next to a large metal sculpture of a fly painted in orange, purple and yellow. The owner greeted us at the door and then stopped by our table to chit chat as well. She was just an I had imagined. If you can picture the seamstress from the Incredibles, that's her. Perfectly circular glasses, hair in a loose bun, a 3 inch gold Fleur d lis pin on her shoulder, and buzzing all around. She was very friendly and enjoyed talking about her art. We ordered off of the Garlic Festival Menu, so there is no fear of vampires coming close to us tonight. We stared with a whole head of roasted garlic with bread and butter, ended with bread pudding for Jon and garlic infused honey ice cream for me and each had a whole lot of garlic dishes in between. It was all wonderful! Jon's only complaint was his drink of choice, an Old Fashion. It seemed to be straight bourbon cut only with other alcohol, ice and a slice of tomato.
After dinner we drove back to the French Quarter to buy a few souvenirs for ourselves and others then walked Bourbon Street while enjoying a Hurricane. I could easily drink all day down here. We got back to the house to find that Wylie went down by herself, but Cade did not. I walked into the room to relieve Jeremy of his duties, but he was so sound asleep that I couldn't get him up! The upside was Jon and I slept in the same bed without kids for the second night. The downside was we gained an extra body in our room :_)
Interesting Sights:
-A really pig being pushed in a grocery cart.
-A scrawny old woman dressed in mardi gras/stripper attire
-Many men with shirts rolled up above big bellies.
Shout Out:
-Jeremy for printing out all of the restaurant choices for us to choose from...you're batting 1000.
-Jaimie and Jeremy for deciding to do all of our fun nights out. We hope your date night is as enjoyable.
-Jaimie for letting us use her aquarium pass.
Lesson Learned:
-Don't use your own credit card to pay for something when you are pretending to be your sister and using her drivers license :-)
Last night wasn't great. The kids were waking up all night and this morning was worse. Wylie wanted to get up at around 4:45 and she and Cade took turns from then on being awake and bothering us. My lovely, caring, wonderful, thoughtful husband finally got up with the kids and let me sleep in. I got up at 7:30 and took over kid duties. We got all 3 kids ready, got ourselves ready and loaded up. Our first stop was Winn Dixie to get milk, Gold Bond & hydrocortizone and to take a picture of Wylie in front of the store. Her favorite movie right now is Because of Winn Dixie, so she was really excited to see the grocery store where it all started. We then headed to the aquarium with great reservations about how the kids would hold up. They did great! We did some bribing with Twizzlers during both the ride and walk and that seemed to do the trick. I had a little malfunction getting a replacement card for Jaimie, but got 'er done. All 3 of them loved the aquarium and Cade didn't even want to be held much. He was much to excited to climb on all of the rocks and try to jump into the tanks. Wylie and Alli's favorite part were the "huge, huge, huge" (with arms spreading increasingly further apart with each "huge") sea turtles! There was marine life of all kinds and even a couple smaller sea turtles that were recently saved from the oil spill. After we made the full rounds in the aquarium, we made our way .3 of a mile (Garmin said so) to Mother's for lunch. It's been featured on many TV shows and Jeremy swears by their Po Boys. We were a little worse for wear, but we made it and the kids did great our our trek. Jon had the Ferdi's Special Po Boy (lots of meat with a sauce), I had a grilled shrimp Po Boy and the kids scarfed down lemonade and red beans & rice. It was a great experience and great food all around. The walk back to the car went well except Cade wanted to be held the whole time. I couldn't really blame his 2 year old legs for being hot and tired by that time. We went back home for....what else....nap!
After nap we had a treat of ice cream because it was National Ice Cream Day! Jeremy came home just in time to join us. Jon and I then got ready for our date night and left the crew with Jaimie and Jeremy at 5:00ish. We chose a restaurant int he Garden District because it seemed a little off beat and we weren't disappointed. The Garden District is where the English settled and the look and feel is much different than the French Quarter. The houses are large, Victorian estates. Even the small houses looked grand. Dinner was at Upperline. The art work was eclectic and placed haphazardly all over the restaurant. There was a pink floral painting in a large gold frame, next to a jazz poster from 1973, next to a water color painting of a wizard with a dog, next to a large metal sculpture of a fly painted in orange, purple and yellow. The owner greeted us at the door and then stopped by our table to chit chat as well. She was just an I had imagined. If you can picture the seamstress from the Incredibles, that's her. Perfectly circular glasses, hair in a loose bun, a 3 inch gold Fleur d lis pin on her shoulder, and buzzing all around. She was very friendly and enjoyed talking about her art. We ordered off of the Garlic Festival Menu, so there is no fear of vampires coming close to us tonight. We stared with a whole head of roasted garlic with bread and butter, ended with bread pudding for Jon and garlic infused honey ice cream for me and each had a whole lot of garlic dishes in between. It was all wonderful! Jon's only complaint was his drink of choice, an Old Fashion. It seemed to be straight bourbon cut only with other alcohol, ice and a slice of tomato.
After dinner we drove back to the French Quarter to buy a few souvenirs for ourselves and others then walked Bourbon Street while enjoying a Hurricane. I could easily drink all day down here. We got back to the house to find that Wylie went down by herself, but Cade did not. I walked into the room to relieve Jeremy of his duties, but he was so sound asleep that I couldn't get him up! The upside was Jon and I slept in the same bed without kids for the second night. The downside was we gained an extra body in our room :_)
Interesting Sights:
-A really pig being pushed in a grocery cart.
-A scrawny old woman dressed in mardi gras/stripper attire
-Many men with shirts rolled up above big bellies.
Shout Out:
-Jeremy for printing out all of the restaurant choices for us to choose from...you're batting 1000.
-Jaimie and Jeremy for deciding to do all of our fun nights out. We hope your date night is as enjoyable.
-Jaimie for letting us use her aquarium pass.
Lesson Learned:
-Don't use your own credit card to pay for something when you are pretending to be your sister and using her drivers license :-)
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Day 20- Girls Night Out
Jeremy is tour guide today. We started out with beignets (spelling?) and chicory coffee at Cafe du Monde. Then we headed on to the French Quarter in an attempt to beat the heat. It didn't quite work. It started out with a nice breeze, but by the end everyone was melting emotionally and physically. We took the stroller for Cade, but it was mostly used by Wylie. As Jaimie said, "When in New Orleans, do as a Southern Belle." We got our picture at the same Bourbon Street sign as the rest of my family has and took a few more pics before heading back to the car. The French Quarter is very eclectic and funky-just as I expected and just the way I like. I was a little taken aback at the live sex acts pictures with nothing blurred out....leave a little for the imagination is what my Mom always said, but apparently they don't feel the same way!!! We stopped at a little grocer to get some muffalattas (spelling?) on the way back to the car and then back home for lunch and nap. We did make a quick tour of a cemetery along the way. We are the clan of Gail and Gary after all :-)
After nap Jaimie and I got ready for our night out in The Big Easy! We went back to the French Quarter and walked around while I "sipped" a hand grenade. I certainly didn't let mine turn to syrup like the boys did. We saw a pregnant stripper, a tie-dye-cape-wearing-guitar-playing wizard, an apron with rubber breasts that have obviously been handled a lot, and many other interesting sights. I'm glad we took the kids in the AM when there wasn't a lot of action. I'm afraid I would be having to answer many questions that I'm not ready for Wylie to ask.
We then went to NOLA, Emerill's restaurant for starter chefs. I will be their guinea pig any time. We ate off of the Spanish Cuisine Tour menu and shared arugula & chick pea salad, ham/spinach/potato and cheese "tortilla", swordfish with potatoes, seafood paella & almond torte with chocolate ice cream and chocolate pop rocks (they didn't really pop...sadness). It was all delicious and the best part was our water glasses got refilled about 10 times and they even replaced the whole glass with desert. After dinner Jaimie took me on a tour of the medical district where she works. We got back home to the same story as last night. The kids were all sleeping except for Wylie. She did take a big step and slept on the Aerobed with Cade, so Jon and I got to sleep in the same bed without kids between us for the first time this whole trip!
Shout out:
-Jon and Jeremy for giving all 4 kids baths while we were out on the town.
Questions:
-How do women wear full make up here?
-How do men wear long sleeves & pants?
-How did/do people live without AC?
Quote to live by:
-Get up & dance, get up & smile, get up and drink to the days that are gone in the shortest while." -Simon Fowler
After nap Jaimie and I got ready for our night out in The Big Easy! We went back to the French Quarter and walked around while I "sipped" a hand grenade. I certainly didn't let mine turn to syrup like the boys did. We saw a pregnant stripper, a tie-dye-cape-wearing-guitar-playing wizard, an apron with rubber breasts that have obviously been handled a lot, and many other interesting sights. I'm glad we took the kids in the AM when there wasn't a lot of action. I'm afraid I would be having to answer many questions that I'm not ready for Wylie to ask.
We then went to NOLA, Emerill's restaurant for starter chefs. I will be their guinea pig any time. We ate off of the Spanish Cuisine Tour menu and shared arugula & chick pea salad, ham/spinach/potato and cheese "tortilla", swordfish with potatoes, seafood paella & almond torte with chocolate ice cream and chocolate pop rocks (they didn't really pop...sadness). It was all delicious and the best part was our water glasses got refilled about 10 times and they even replaced the whole glass with desert. After dinner Jaimie took me on a tour of the medical district where she works. We got back home to the same story as last night. The kids were all sleeping except for Wylie. She did take a big step and slept on the Aerobed with Cade, so Jon and I got to sleep in the same bed without kids between us for the first time this whole trip!
Shout out:
-Jon and Jeremy for giving all 4 kids baths while we were out on the town.
Questions:
-How do women wear full make up here?
-How do men wear long sleeves & pants?
-How did/do people live without AC?
Quote to live by:
-Get up & dance, get up & smile, get up and drink to the days that are gone in the shortest while." -Simon Fowler
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Day 19- Boys Night Out
Everything really has been good. It know it seems like I'm making everything sound sweet and nice, but it really has been for the most part. Sure there have been some skiffs and squabbles here and there, some differences in adult opinions/preferences/parenting choices, but nothing major and nothing to get upset about. We are truly loving our experiences and our entire trip.
Today we are on our own...just the 4 Rouths and Alli. We loaded up and headed down town. About 3 minutes into the trip Wylie decided to throw a class A temper tantrum because she didn't have her blanket. Not sure where this came from since she has traveled without it for years now, but today she decided that she really needed it and did not like me telling her to "suck it up." We pushed on and finally got her screaming and tears to stop just before parking. The plan was to go to the Insectarium and I was actually quite jazzed about it, but when we got there we learned it is closed on Mondays. So, we decided to try the nearby aquarium, only to find it was closed too. Never fear, we took a walk down the river and watched a tug boat push some cargo. All was going well until Wylie declared that this wasn't working for her and it is too hot here for her. I really could understand where she was coming from this time. There is no way I would be able to carry on a normal life in the South. I like a hot day here and there, but this hot, humid stuff every day just isn't for me.
After loading back up we decided to take the kids to Target. Wylie was a little disappointed that it wasn't a full mall, but she got over it when she saw that she got to ride in the two seater cart with Alli. Of course, then Cade couldn't ride in a regular cart, he too needed the 2 seater cart. It was probably a better plan all along for the kids. I think they had as much or more fun than they would have looking at bugs. We drove through Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers for lunch because we had seen it on Undercover Boss. After eating the kids asked for naps before we said anything, and man did they need it. They each slept over 2 1/2 hours. Jon went out to get the oil changed and was reminded once again that we should not solely rely on Garmin. She took him to a Honda Motorcycle dealer first and then to the other side of town, but only $32 and some gas the deed was done.
Jaimie and Jeremy decided that we would have a Boys Night, Girls Nigh and Couples Night so we could each get a couple well deserved nights out on the town without kids. Jeremy took Jon out to Drago's tonight for some grilled oysters and a seafood dinner. They then went to the French Quarter for Hand Grenades, which melted and turned to syrup before they could finish them much to their dismay. Jon came home swearing that the French Quarter is 10 miles long and 4 miles wide and that Jeremy made him walk all of it in the horrid heat. They admitted to talking about the kids most of the evening with some sports sprinkled in, which is what Jaimie and I had already called earlier while eating gumbo with the kids. We watched the kids play, dance to the Cinderella Dance DVD with magic wands (yes Cade took his shirt off and stuck his finger in his belly button), and devour popsicles. Wylie learned how to do dot-to-dots thanks to Aunt Jaimie. I put the kids to bed while Jaimie went out to get some pecan pie...today is Pecan Pie Day you know. Wylie had a very hard time tonight and didn't actually go to sleep until Jon and I did.
I'm really looking forward to tomorrow. Jeremy is playing tour guide and Jaimie and I are playing "We-Aren't-Mommies" and taking our Girls Night!
Today we are on our own...just the 4 Rouths and Alli. We loaded up and headed down town. About 3 minutes into the trip Wylie decided to throw a class A temper tantrum because she didn't have her blanket. Not sure where this came from since she has traveled without it for years now, but today she decided that she really needed it and did not like me telling her to "suck it up." We pushed on and finally got her screaming and tears to stop just before parking. The plan was to go to the Insectarium and I was actually quite jazzed about it, but when we got there we learned it is closed on Mondays. So, we decided to try the nearby aquarium, only to find it was closed too. Never fear, we took a walk down the river and watched a tug boat push some cargo. All was going well until Wylie declared that this wasn't working for her and it is too hot here for her. I really could understand where she was coming from this time. There is no way I would be able to carry on a normal life in the South. I like a hot day here and there, but this hot, humid stuff every day just isn't for me.
After loading back up we decided to take the kids to Target. Wylie was a little disappointed that it wasn't a full mall, but she got over it when she saw that she got to ride in the two seater cart with Alli. Of course, then Cade couldn't ride in a regular cart, he too needed the 2 seater cart. It was probably a better plan all along for the kids. I think they had as much or more fun than they would have looking at bugs. We drove through Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers for lunch because we had seen it on Undercover Boss. After eating the kids asked for naps before we said anything, and man did they need it. They each slept over 2 1/2 hours. Jon went out to get the oil changed and was reminded once again that we should not solely rely on Garmin. She took him to a Honda Motorcycle dealer first and then to the other side of town, but only $32 and some gas the deed was done.
Jaimie and Jeremy decided that we would have a Boys Night, Girls Nigh and Couples Night so we could each get a couple well deserved nights out on the town without kids. Jeremy took Jon out to Drago's tonight for some grilled oysters and a seafood dinner. They then went to the French Quarter for Hand Grenades, which melted and turned to syrup before they could finish them much to their dismay. Jon came home swearing that the French Quarter is 10 miles long and 4 miles wide and that Jeremy made him walk all of it in the horrid heat. They admitted to talking about the kids most of the evening with some sports sprinkled in, which is what Jaimie and I had already called earlier while eating gumbo with the kids. We watched the kids play, dance to the Cinderella Dance DVD with magic wands (yes Cade took his shirt off and stuck his finger in his belly button), and devour popsicles. Wylie learned how to do dot-to-dots thanks to Aunt Jaimie. I put the kids to bed while Jaimie went out to get some pecan pie...today is Pecan Pie Day you know. Wylie had a very hard time tonight and didn't actually go to sleep until Jon and I did.
I'm really looking forward to tomorrow. Jeremy is playing tour guide and Jaimie and I are playing "We-Aren't-Mommies" and taking our Girls Night!
Day 18- Plentiful Plantation
I woke up at 6:30 on my own again...What's happening to me???? Coffee and blueberry pancakes put a smile on my face. The kids all played some more and so far nothing more has been broken. Jeremy went to work again today so he can take Tuesday off to be with us. Jaimie is playing tour guide today. The 6 of us got around and went to the San Francisco Plantation (original name Sans Franco meaning without a penny). It's a big yellow and bright blue mansion with a lot of faux painting throughout. And here I thought faux painting was brought on by HGTV :-) We had a nice tour of the house and history of the estate by a tour guide. A free black man was the original owner of the estate, but the mansion was built by an American-French couple. There was also a 2 room school house and slave quarters that are original, but not to the estate. The school house made me realize that maybe good 'ol RMS isn't so bad after all :-) I might come close to freezing much of the school year, but at least I'm not sweating and feeling claustrophobic while managing teen-aged hormones!!! The whole thing was just a little too long and "boring" for our younens, so we didn't stay nearly as long as I would have liked...such is the story of my life right now. Instead of a picnic at a park we opted to take the picnic back to the house and eat in an air conditioned room. Wylie and Alli tried their hand at eating outside, but quickly came back in when an ant crawled onto her place-the HORROR!!!! After some full bellies it was Routh Family nap time....one of my favorite past times.
There was more playing after waking up and then Jeremy came home to cook us up some dinner. On the menu tonight was blackened red fish, roasted okra from his garden, corn on the cob and Jaimie's strawberry pretzel salad. My family is being quite spoiled in the culinary department. I certainly hope they don't expect this to last. Jeremy and Jon took Wylie, Alli and Cade to get snowballs. We've been hearing about these snowballs for quite some time now and finally got the chance to try one. It's flavored super-fine shaved ice with cream-YUMMY!! They were even nice enough to bring Jaimie and me one home. Flavors of choice tonight were: yellow cake mix, king cake, bubble gum, pink swirl, nectar, and almond. More playing both outside and inside. Cade is a big fan of Uncle Jeremy and had a bit of difficulty leaving him at bed time. After some settling down the kids went down, the adults talked, and another day is done.
There was more playing after waking up and then Jeremy came home to cook us up some dinner. On the menu tonight was blackened red fish, roasted okra from his garden, corn on the cob and Jaimie's strawberry pretzel salad. My family is being quite spoiled in the culinary department. I certainly hope they don't expect this to last. Jeremy and Jon took Wylie, Alli and Cade to get snowballs. We've been hearing about these snowballs for quite some time now and finally got the chance to try one. It's flavored super-fine shaved ice with cream-YUMMY!! They were even nice enough to bring Jaimie and me one home. Flavors of choice tonight were: yellow cake mix, king cake, bubble gum, pink swirl, nectar, and almond. More playing both outside and inside. Cade is a big fan of Uncle Jeremy and had a bit of difficulty leaving him at bed time. After some settling down the kids went down, the adults talked, and another day is done.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Day 17-Bittersweet
Today I woke up on my own accord before Cade at 6:30. Why, I don't quite know, but I did it. I stumbled up stairs for coffee and breakfast burritos and enjoyed eating a meal with out a 2 year old climbing up and down, up and down, up and down and eating most of my food even though he hasn't eaten all of his. Enjoy it because they grow up fast...right???
I did one last load of laundry and stared packing. That was all a whole lot easier before I had 5 little sets of feet under me and 5 little sets of hands undoing everything that was just done. Thank goodness for Aunt Nancy and Uncle David. They took all of the kids for one last walk to the beach. Of course Cade would lot leave with out his blanket, so it came back full of lots of little treasurers and smelling oh so fresh. In the mean time the other 4 adults scurried around and got both Pilots loaded to the gills. We gave big hugs and kisses and said our good-byes by 9:30. It all ended all too soon, but if it would have lasted 100 years it still would have ended too soon. That's just how it goes when you are having a good time and have to leave those you love.
On the flip side we were on our way to New Orleans!!! Home of Alli and the Super Bowl Champs! We were driving along, following Garmin's directions, talking, reaching back to pick up this thing or that when all of a sudden..."Oh, this is a toll road!" We had $1 and some change, but had no idea how much the toll would be. Jon made a quick U-turn and thankfully we were right across the street from a Wal-Mart. I ran in got some index cards (first thing I saw besides a big box fan), and 5 minutes later we had $40 cash and were back in business. I guess this is why our parents always got after us for traveling without cash :) By 10:45 I started hearing "I'm really crazing a Big Slam," "I'm hungry," "I need to go potty," so we stopped as a gas station, got in, got out and handed out BBQ pork sandwiches and other goodies made by the Hyatt family for our traveling and dining pleasure. The kids soon feel asleep watching Because of Winn Dixie and Jon and I listened to some of our book on tape in peace and quite. We hit a little traffic because of an accident, but all else was uneventful.
We pulled in to New Orleans a little after 2:00 and were super excited to be getting to Jaimie and Jeremy's, but saddened by seeing so many houses right away that have seen destruction and never been fixed. We pulled into the Clodfelter's house at 2:30ish to a very happy mama running out to greet her little girl. Smiles were everywhere! The kids came in the house and quickly got to work making the house their own. Toys were strung along to every corner and role playing was the activity of the night. Cade really took to the toy kitchen set and because a little chef. Unfortunately our little BamBam is a little hard on toys and he quickly broke off a door to the kitchen. About 1 hour later, another door. I guess we will be purchasing a toy kitchen while we are out here, but we decided to just wait until the end of our time here. Who knows what else will be on the list by that time.
Jaimie made meatloaf and mashed potatoes for dinner, out good eating just continues!!! Some bath time, more playing and then it was bed time for everyone.
On another note:
-Congratulations to Jovina and Ivan on your wedding day. We are very sad that we couldn't make it, but were thinking of you. Much love to you both!!!
Friday, July 9, 2010
Day 16-Dolphin Delight
I'm typing this listening to some music my students and international students would approve of (Lady Gaga and the boy who sings Suicidal), which makes me smile, but I'm even more happy because I am finally caught up on my blog!!! This is real time baby!!!
We had a "left over" breakfast-green chile with poached egg, potatoes & pork, biscuits and fruit. I'm going to be very sad when I have to go back to cooking for myself and my family is going to be even more sad. Uncle David checked with the EPA yesterday and apparently the warning is only if you handle the tar balls and they aren't any more of a threat than they were a few days ago, so off to the beach again today for us! The waves were way more calm than they have been, so the kids had fun playing in the waves. Cade was way happy to see all of the boats and helicopters. The girls had a grand ol' time making sand cookies. The adults went sand dollar hunting, but we had no luck at all. Probably should have let the kids go hunting. We came back to the house for an early lunch and nap before the dolphin cruise.
The cruise was great. It was kid friendly and adult enjoyable. We saw dolphins jumping, fed birds, the kids got to all steer the ship, and they each got a prize out of the treasurer box. The captain's son (12ish) asked Cade if he had red toe nails. Cade shook his head yes and the boy jokingly told him that he needed to start standing up to the girls. Cade just looked at him like the was crazy. Ginny fell asleep and Maddie and Cade had some rough spots, but all of the kids had fun at one time or another. Cade LOVED steering the boat!!! We got back to home for a surf and turf dinner and packing. There was more wine and more good conversation while the kids played upstairs. They made Cade a bed int he closet and Wylie was quite distraught when I told her he was not going to be sleeping in there. This was all after she had already tried to put him to sleep in our room to no avail. She's such a little mother and just doesn't understand why Cade wont do what she wants.
It's going to be hard to leave tomorrow, but it's time for phase #4....of to New Orleans tomorrow!
Shout outs:
-Jon for booking the dolphin cruise.
-The Hyatts for an incredible week.
-Ginny and Maddie for sharing their Nanny and Poppy so well.
We had a "left over" breakfast-green chile with poached egg, potatoes & pork, biscuits and fruit. I'm going to be very sad when I have to go back to cooking for myself and my family is going to be even more sad. Uncle David checked with the EPA yesterday and apparently the warning is only if you handle the tar balls and they aren't any more of a threat than they were a few days ago, so off to the beach again today for us! The waves were way more calm than they have been, so the kids had fun playing in the waves. Cade was way happy to see all of the boats and helicopters. The girls had a grand ol' time making sand cookies. The adults went sand dollar hunting, but we had no luck at all. Probably should have let the kids go hunting. We came back to the house for an early lunch and nap before the dolphin cruise.
The cruise was great. It was kid friendly and adult enjoyable. We saw dolphins jumping, fed birds, the kids got to all steer the ship, and they each got a prize out of the treasurer box. The captain's son (12ish) asked Cade if he had red toe nails. Cade shook his head yes and the boy jokingly told him that he needed to start standing up to the girls. Cade just looked at him like the was crazy. Ginny fell asleep and Maddie and Cade had some rough spots, but all of the kids had fun at one time or another. Cade LOVED steering the boat!!! We got back to home for a surf and turf dinner and packing. There was more wine and more good conversation while the kids played upstairs. They made Cade a bed int he closet and Wylie was quite distraught when I told her he was not going to be sleeping in there. This was all after she had already tried to put him to sleep in our room to no avail. She's such a little mother and just doesn't understand why Cade wont do what she wants.
It's going to be hard to leave tomorrow, but it's time for phase #4....of to New Orleans tomorrow!
Shout outs:
-Jon for booking the dolphin cruise.
-The Hyatts for an incredible week.
-Ginny and Maddie for sharing their Nanny and Poppy so well.
Day 15-Resting
The last few days has finally caught up with everyone. Jon slept in until 7:00...unheard of... and Ginny didn't get up until 9:00ish. We had Uncle David's Family Famous Eggs Benedict and got around to go to a new play ground. It was a bit of a disappointment, the weather was hot and sticky and the kids were thirsty and hungry, so the trip was short lived. Out beach has an official warning posted for children, so it looks like we will be swimming at the house for the next 2 days & taking a dolphins cruise tomorrow.
After nap we took a dip in the pool. Wylie and Cade are becoming more comfortable in the pool, but they like being with Dad and not Mom-GREAT FOR ME!! Jon "wrestled an alligator" (pool raft) to entertain the kids. Uncle David got dinner started for us and then finally decided to go to the doctor to have them look at his thumb. We dined on his hard work while he sat and waited to hear a verdict on his thumb. All will be OK. He had a pretty bad infection, but got an injection and Rx. Showers, bed, chit chat, another day done.
After nap we took a dip in the pool. Wylie and Cade are becoming more comfortable in the pool, but they like being with Dad and not Mom-GREAT FOR ME!! Jon "wrestled an alligator" (pool raft) to entertain the kids. Uncle David got dinner started for us and then finally decided to go to the doctor to have them look at his thumb. We dined on his hard work while he sat and waited to hear a verdict on his thumb. All will be OK. He had a pretty bad infection, but got an injection and Rx. Showers, bed, chit chat, another day done.
Day 14-Happy 2nd Birthday, Cade!
Today is my little man's 2nd birthday! I can't believe he is already 2...and I really can't believe we had him before Wylie was 2....what were we thinking!!! But, man I'm glad that we did have him. He drives me crazy every other minute, but those minutes in between make it all worth while. When he gives me a big squeeze around my neck or smiles so big that I see his dimple I melt. He is a little lover!
I seriously love vacation. I was woken up about 20 times before I really got up and all of it just made me smile. 1st it was Alli wanting her dress on, then Wylie wanted her dress on, then Cade came in to tell me he went, "pee pee," then Cade came in to tell me he went "pee pee" again, only this time it was poopy....I'm up! I picked my feet up enough to climb the stairs to the coffee and chocolate chip bread that was waiting for me. Cade got to watch his Trucks DVD that Aunt Nancy and Uncle David got for him. I've never seen the kid sit still long enough to even watch a 15 minute cartoon. But he sat on the sofa, propped up on a pillow with a blanket over him, sucking his finger just as happy as can be. He didn't make it all the way through, but it was considerably longer than anything else he's ever tried to watch. He was a big boy watching his Truck movie!
We all got around and headed back to the beach. Tar balls have made it here, but not many and they are only about the size of a quarter or smaller. They kinda look like dog poop. I thought they would be larger, darker and harder. I guess it was a lesson learned. Jon and Travis tried their hand at the waves again and got eaten up. The kids played in the lake run off and had a grand time. Cade and Maddie love playing together, which is really funny because neither of them talk much so they just take each other by the hand and lead the other around. It was really nice just to hang out and watch all of them. We came back for what else, lunch and nap! We had ice cream sandwiches for snack, the kids played and then I got to watch Spirit with 5 of the cutest little kids ever. The other adults put a picnic together and we went to Seaside for a picnic concert int he park. We killed some time by walking around, playing and eating pink cupcakes. The concerns was nice and there were lots of bubbles, lots of giggles, and lots of little legs running around. Keeping track of 5 little fish in a sea of people is a daunting task, but seeing their smiles & growing independence is awesome. Dinner was hot dogs, chips and beer. A step down from what we've been dining on, but good hot dogs are a good thing on summer vacation. Once we got home it was bed time for everyone.
Question:
-Why does Cade always have to take his shirt off and stick his finger in his belly button to dance?
I seriously love vacation. I was woken up about 20 times before I really got up and all of it just made me smile. 1st it was Alli wanting her dress on, then Wylie wanted her dress on, then Cade came in to tell me he went, "pee pee," then Cade came in to tell me he went "pee pee" again, only this time it was poopy....I'm up! I picked my feet up enough to climb the stairs to the coffee and chocolate chip bread that was waiting for me. Cade got to watch his Trucks DVD that Aunt Nancy and Uncle David got for him. I've never seen the kid sit still long enough to even watch a 15 minute cartoon. But he sat on the sofa, propped up on a pillow with a blanket over him, sucking his finger just as happy as can be. He didn't make it all the way through, but it was considerably longer than anything else he's ever tried to watch. He was a big boy watching his Truck movie!
We all got around and headed back to the beach. Tar balls have made it here, but not many and they are only about the size of a quarter or smaller. They kinda look like dog poop. I thought they would be larger, darker and harder. I guess it was a lesson learned. Jon and Travis tried their hand at the waves again and got eaten up. The kids played in the lake run off and had a grand time. Cade and Maddie love playing together, which is really funny because neither of them talk much so they just take each other by the hand and lead the other around. It was really nice just to hang out and watch all of them. We came back for what else, lunch and nap! We had ice cream sandwiches for snack, the kids played and then I got to watch Spirit with 5 of the cutest little kids ever. The other adults put a picnic together and we went to Seaside for a picnic concert int he park. We killed some time by walking around, playing and eating pink cupcakes. The concerns was nice and there were lots of bubbles, lots of giggles, and lots of little legs running around. Keeping track of 5 little fish in a sea of people is a daunting task, but seeing their smiles & growing independence is awesome. Dinner was hot dogs, chips and beer. A step down from what we've been dining on, but good hot dogs are a good thing on summer vacation. Once we got home it was bed time for everyone.
Question:
-Why does Cade always have to take his shirt off and stick his finger in his belly button to dance?
Day 13- Lots of Love
I was woken up again by 3 little voices telling be breakfast is ready. I think I can really get use to this! With the exception of it being before 7:00. This part is really killing me and I'm not sure what planet these people are from. Don't they know that you are suppose to sleep in on vacation???? But I really can't complain when I walk up stairs to coffee, pancakes, fried rice cakes and cantaloupe. The kids ate a second breakfast after this, oh to be a preschooler again and be able to eat when ever and what ever I wanted. Then they were all treated to toe nail painting by Aunt Nancy...yes, I said all, of course Cade had to have pretty red nails like the rest of the girls! He is quite proud and will show them off to anyone :-) We slowly got around and out of the house. Today is a bit gloomy, which is actually good because Wylie's eczema is flaring up so I would like her to stay out of the water. We went to a park instead and let the kids run around. It is hot and sticky here, but it just doesn't seem to slow the kids down at all. The adults, however, tag teamed following the little ones around. We left just in time for the heavy down pour to start. Apparently we are still getting remnants of Hurricane Alex. We got back and ate a quick lunch and took naps. Someday our lives wont revolve around lunch and nap time...right??? The adults met our 5:00 PM time constraint and then let the wine start flowing. Dinner was left overs, but you never would have known it. The think with Uncle David is you never have left overs the same way. He always makes an entirely new meal out of what ever is left. He's amazing! I seriously think he should have his own Food Network show...if anyone knows anyone I know someone :-) We had pork shoulder in a wine gravy, roasted squash with peaches, shrimp niqua (spelling?) Then our after dinner snack was popcorn! The adults talked, laughed, and reminisced about various family members. Great stories were flowing like the wine around the table. Cade and Maddie, all the while., were taking handfuls of popcorn and piling it up for themselves on the step under the counter stools. They had quite the collection by the tie we noticed. Poor Abby was the stove top popcorn maker. Her arms were moving back and forth like a rubber band. We decided to walk to the beach to feed the birds some popcorn as well, only to realize after getting there that there were no birds. No worry, the kids had just as much fun feeding the waves :-) Cade really, really, really wanted to go out into the water and just did not understand that it was not possible. He finally just sat down and waited for a big wave. One came in and it almost took him away! He just laughed :-) We came home for bed time and the adults continued the conversation flow.
Realization:
-Nights like tonight really make me miss my mom. She would have had a great time.
-I love seeing my kids get so much love, attention, hugs and kisses from Aunt Nancy & Uncle David.
Shout outs:
-Abby for making stellar popcorn!
-Aunt Nancy & Uncle David for....everything....
Realization:
-Nights like tonight really make me miss my mom. She would have had a great time.
-I love seeing my kids get so much love, attention, hugs and kisses from Aunt Nancy & Uncle David.
Shout outs:
-Abby for making stellar popcorn!
-Aunt Nancy & Uncle David for....everything....
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Day 12-Birthday Party
Today's breakfast-egg & potato bake, biscuits & gravy, cantaloupe. We got everyone ready for the beach and then Cade and I took some quite alone time to go shopping for his birthday party. OK, so it wasn't so much quiet, but we were alone and that was probably a good thing. He seems to have hit the terrible twos with full force! He wants to be held, screams, changes his mind 20 times in 2 minutes, "No thank you!", "No, mama!", "Mine!" He got happy once I took him to the toy aisle and he was able to pick out a ball and truck. We came back to a completely quiet house. I put Cade down for a nap and then wasn't quite sure what to do with myself. I baked the Funfeti cupcakes, put up the few decorations that I bought and then blogged. Slowly bodies started to trickle back into the house. We ate some shrimp bisque by Travis...YUM again! The girls and all other adults went down for a nap just as Cade woke up, so we got some more alone time. We blew bubbles, watched a little bit of a movie, went for a walk, splashed in the water, did lots of talking, and enjoyed our rare time together alone. Everyone slowly woke up and we started Cade's birthday party with swimming. There was lots of splashing, giggling, and "coffee making". We came back in to do some cupcake decorating and pin the tail on the donkey. The kids each got to decorate their own cupcake with icing, sprinkles, icing markers, and candy footballs. I think most was consumed before the decorating stopped! Pin the tail on the donkey was quite funny with 2 and 4 year olds who don't quite know what they are doing. They all got the hang of it and took 2-3 turns each. Dinner was pork shoulder, red beans and rice, and salad- YUM, YUM, YUM! We opened presents and found that the trucks, balls, and Leap Frog were just as much of a hit with the girls as they were with Cade. Jaimie and Jeremy left tonight, but we convinced Alli to stay with us. She cried as they left, but her parents were soon forgotten with another cupcake! Some more playing, story time, bath time and it was off to bed. Alli did great and slept through the night.
A rough day with Cade and a few squabbles, but in light of it all another successful day.
Funny sight:
-A dead armadillo on the side of the road. I've never seen one in person but I did write a haiku about one in college :-)
Fun Times:
-Jumping in the waves.
-2 & 4 year olds figuring out pin the tail on the donkey.
-watching Cade's language improve daily.
Shout out:
-Jeremy and Jaimie for leaving Alli with us!!
A rough day with Cade and a few squabbles, but in light of it all another successful day.
Funny sight:
-A dead armadillo on the side of the road. I've never seen one in person but I did write a haiku about one in college :-)
Fun Times:
-Jumping in the waves.
-2 & 4 year olds figuring out pin the tail on the donkey.
-watching Cade's language improve daily.
Shout out:
-Jeremy and Jaimie for leaving Alli with us!!
Day 11-Little Sparklers
I was able to sleep in and was woken up to 3 little squeals saying it was time for breakfast-porridge, bacon, cherries an biscuits. The girls got us around quickly and off to the beach. We were out of the house a little after 8:00! We pulled a wagon load of toys for the 5 little castle builders and were on a mission to find clean water. It was easier than anticipated. The kids had a blast building castles, but I think Jeremy and Travis had even more fun. Jeremy, Jon and Travis all enjoyed jumping in the waves and Cade was right behind them. Wylie was a little more careful, but she got in enough for the waves to come up to her knees. We came back to the house and got right back in the water then had to pull the kids out to eat lunch and a whole family nap-beautiful!
The girls woke up and made necklaces and bracelets while the adults forced themselves to hold off until 5:00 to start the wine flow. Jaimie's friends, Rebecca and Carlos, joined us for dinner-shrimp boil, mac & cheese=YUMMY!!!! What really made the meal was good conversation and good company. After dinner the girls put on their matching Snow White dresses and Cade put on his Peter Pan outfit and they danced, ran, giggled and played. Nothing is cuter than seeing 4 little girls holding up the skirt of their dress with a pinkie extended and walking down the stairs!!! That is except for the little poor little orphan boy tagging along after them :-) There was lots of twirling and secret telling tonight. Cousin bonding is a beautiful thing. We watched fireworks from the balcony and then walked to the beach to watch a bit more.
I know I've said this a lot, and I hope to say it a lot more in the days and weeks to come. Today was another successful day. We are blessed and feel incredibly lucky to have the family that we do.
Tomorrow's agenda:
-Cade's birthday party!!!!
The girls woke up and made necklaces and bracelets while the adults forced themselves to hold off until 5:00 to start the wine flow. Jaimie's friends, Rebecca and Carlos, joined us for dinner-shrimp boil, mac & cheese=YUMMY!!!! What really made the meal was good conversation and good company. After dinner the girls put on their matching Snow White dresses and Cade put on his Peter Pan outfit and they danced, ran, giggled and played. Nothing is cuter than seeing 4 little girls holding up the skirt of their dress with a pinkie extended and walking down the stairs!!! That is except for the little poor little orphan boy tagging along after them :-) There was lots of twirling and secret telling tonight. Cousin bonding is a beautiful thing. We watched fireworks from the balcony and then walked to the beach to watch a bit more.
I know I've said this a lot, and I hope to say it a lot more in the days and weeks to come. Today was another successful day. We are blessed and feel incredibly lucky to have the family that we do.
Tomorrow's agenda:
-Cade's birthday party!!!!
Day 10-Beach or Bust
We woke up at 5:00 AM to kitchen clatter. The kids woke up shortly after and we all got around and made our way down stairs. Uncle David was up and at 'em working hard in the kitchen. Breakfast burritos and stick rice bags were being assembled for the trip to the beach. His thumb is so bandaged up it looks like a potato was stuck to the end of his hand. The kids played downstairs and Cade's new love his the rocking horse. He stayed on that thing for about 15 minutes just rocking back and forth. He really, really, really is his father's son! Aunt Nancy broke out the dress up clothes she made for Wylie and Cade so they had to play dress up before we left. Wylie got a Snow White dress and Cade got a Peter Pan outfit. They are really cute and the kids absolutely LOVED them! We call piled back in the car and headed to Travis and Abby's to get the rest of the crew. A quick stop for coffee and we were heading for Santa Rosa Beach by 7:30. Cade had a rough time again, but he finally fell asleep after a quick pit stop. Uncle David rode with us, so he and Jon traded stories back and forth...who talks more???? I'm still not sure, but they kept each other well entertained :-) We have been so blessed with beautiful scenery this whole trip and today was no exception. Once we got to Florida we were able to lay claim to 18 states!
We arrived in Santa Rosa Beach around 12:00 and first went to the wrong house thanks to Garmin. Once we found our correct house, we found that the cleaning crew was still there so we took a walk to the beach to see if there were any tar balls. So far, so good. The beach was dirty due to a lake being drained out and full of algae, but other than that the sand is white and hopefully the water will be inviting tomorrow. By the time we got back to the house it was ready for us. It's big, spacious and bright will yellow and turquoise walls...just my kind of house! It's going to be perfect for our large family with many little feet running around. 2 sets of bunk beds make it a 4 year old's dream and a pool in our back yard makes it like heaven. We went swimming and Wylie and Cade again weren't took sure about the water, but were even more sure of themselves by the time we all got out. Wine for appetizer, taco salad for dinner and sno cones for desert. Kids were all in bed b 8:30, and Jon, Travis, Jaimie, Jeremy and I all stayed up and talked a while before heading to be ourselves. I'm looking forward to being able to unpack again and just enjoy.
Shout out:
-Aunt Nancy for being a closet coffee drinker and giving Jon her coffee card that had a free coffee on it!
We arrived in Santa Rosa Beach around 12:00 and first went to the wrong house thanks to Garmin. Once we found our correct house, we found that the cleaning crew was still there so we took a walk to the beach to see if there were any tar balls. So far, so good. The beach was dirty due to a lake being drained out and full of algae, but other than that the sand is white and hopefully the water will be inviting tomorrow. By the time we got back to the house it was ready for us. It's big, spacious and bright will yellow and turquoise walls...just my kind of house! It's going to be perfect for our large family with many little feet running around. 2 sets of bunk beds make it a 4 year old's dream and a pool in our back yard makes it like heaven. We went swimming and Wylie and Cade again weren't took sure about the water, but were even more sure of themselves by the time we all got out. Wine for appetizer, taco salad for dinner and sno cones for desert. Kids were all in bed b 8:30, and Jon, Travis, Jaimie, Jeremy and I all stayed up and talked a while before heading to be ourselves. I'm looking forward to being able to unpack again and just enjoy.
Shout out:
-Aunt Nancy for being a closet coffee drinker and giving Jon her coffee card that had a free coffee on it!
Day 9- On the Road Again
On the road again, just can't wait to get on the road again. Well, actually I think we really could wait to get on the road again, but it's time to start phase #3. On to Atlanta and a nice home cooked meal!!! We rose before the sun, finished packing, said our last good-byes, and loaded babies by 6:15. So far over an hour ahead of schedule. We stopped at the Dunkin Donuts on the way out of town for Dee Dee. She instructed me to eat a Dunkin Donut for her if we came across one, so it must be done. Traveling was tough for Cade today, but Wylie slept a lot, so it was just a fight with one kid rather than 2 for most of the time, which is doable....stressful and annoying, but doable. Today we went through both Tennessee and Kentucky; two states that Mom really wanted to visit, so that was a little tough to get through. They are just a beautiful as she always imagined. There are rolling hills of green and beautiful open river valleys. We stopped in Lexington, Kentucky for lunch around 12:30ish and ate KFC...of course! It tastes the same as it does in Oregon, but we just had to do it :-) We also found a Target near by and finally was able to exchange the DVD. It was a bit of a process, but got it done partially thanks to Wylie's pitiful sad face surrounded by tasseled hair. The nice Southern people took pity on us and we got it done without paying anything extra, so it was a success.
We arrived at Uncle David and Aunt Nancy's at 7:00 and were greeted at the door by Ginny and Maddie. The kids made quick friends with each other and were off playing before we knew it. Jon and I were quickly handed a glass of wine and we had instant relaxation. Today is Abby's birthday, so we sat down to a feast of lobster, steak, mango chile rellanos, vegetable casserole and chocolate mouse with roasted grapes and sugar cookies for desert. YUM!!!! And the kids wondered why we made them wait for dinner...some day they will fully understand why you push on to Uncle David's cooking. After dinner we went to the pool to take a little dip. My Oregon babies weren't too sure of the water at first, but decided it was a pretty cool thing by the end. We got home around 9:45 and as we walked in the door the vase that Uncle David was holding shattered and he sliced open his thumb. They couldn't get the bleeding to stop despite numerous times, so they finally went to the ER. After waiting an hour and still not having vitals taken, the bleeding stopped and they came come. The bleeding started all over again at home, but they just bandaged it up and called it good. Ginny stayed over with us hoping Wylie would sleep with her....no luck. Wylie tries to be a big kid, but she just can't quite pull the trigger. All went well anyway and we set our alarm for 5:00 once again. I can't wait to get to the beach and not set an alarm.
We arrived at Uncle David and Aunt Nancy's at 7:00 and were greeted at the door by Ginny and Maddie. The kids made quick friends with each other and were off playing before we knew it. Jon and I were quickly handed a glass of wine and we had instant relaxation. Today is Abby's birthday, so we sat down to a feast of lobster, steak, mango chile rellanos, vegetable casserole and chocolate mouse with roasted grapes and sugar cookies for desert. YUM!!!! And the kids wondered why we made them wait for dinner...some day they will fully understand why you push on to Uncle David's cooking. After dinner we went to the pool to take a little dip. My Oregon babies weren't too sure of the water at first, but decided it was a pretty cool thing by the end. We got home around 9:45 and as we walked in the door the vase that Uncle David was holding shattered and he sliced open his thumb. They couldn't get the bleeding to stop despite numerous times, so they finally went to the ER. After waiting an hour and still not having vitals taken, the bleeding stopped and they came come. The bleeding started all over again at home, but they just bandaged it up and called it good. Ginny stayed over with us hoping Wylie would sleep with her....no luck. Wylie tries to be a big kid, but she just can't quite pull the trigger. All went well anyway and we set our alarm for 5:00 once again. I can't wait to get to the beach and not set an alarm.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Day 8- Cleveland ROCKS! Go Indians!
Today Jon and I did the unimaginable, we woke up before both of our kids and didn't have to go full speed as soon as we opened our eyes! What a nice way to start the day. I think we have forgotten how to just get up and be calm. Slowly we all got around to shower, dress, and eat breakfast. Odie ran some last minute errands to the ATM and Dollar Store with the twins. Delia got in a partial nap and Cade had a poopy diaper that Wylie let me know about in secret. By 10:30 we were all primed and ready to head into Cleveland to take in an Indian's game. This has been much anticipated by all involved. Jon and Odie are psyched to take the kids to their first major league game. The boys are psyched because they have been going to minor league games for a while now, Wylie is psyched but doesn't quite know what she is psyched about and I am just hoping that it all goes much smoother than it plays out in my mind. All of the boys have been on the computer all morning learning about starters, looking at pictures of the field and doing other basebally stuff. Wylie and Cade slept most of the way to Progressive Field so Jon and I got a lot of quite, alone time to get caught up since we haven't been able to at night. We are both happily surprised that our whole trip has gone so well. Many people had us packing up and heading back West by this time and so far, aside from Wylie getting tired and wanting to go home, we have no regrets about taking this trip.
We arrived at Progressive Field, Jacob Field for the old schoolers, at 12:00 just in time to hear the Start Spangled Banner as we walked across the parking lot to the field. Game time temp is 71 and our seats are in a nice open space. I guess that's a plus with going to a Thursday afternoon game, not a lot of other people are in attendance. All of the kids did great throughout the game. Cade was mesmerized for the first 2 innings and Wylie was just trying to take it all in with her little through poking out of her teeth. There were 2 home runs hit our way and that was great excitement for the boys. Lunch was pretzels, popcorn and brats/sausages with the works. Our kids are living the high life. We got up to walk around during the 6th inning to walk around and look at the stadium. Icees as big as the kids and singing "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" during the 7th inning stretch and a pink baseball for Wylie and a blue and red baseball for Cade during the 9th inning=HAPPINESS!!! The kids made it all the way through the game partially because it was so quick. We were in the car by 3:00. Indians won 6-1. We were able to get home in time to pack the car and have a decent dinner. It's clean out the fridge night, so yes, that meant another round of hot dogs and hamburgers. An after dinner soccer game, Dads vs Kids ,one last trip to the beach to find more treasures and sand castle building, a family pic in front of the lake and another round of sno cones rounded out our big day. Kids went in for some baths and before bed time wrestling and naked baby running to fully expend all energy before heads hit the pillow. We were able to have some more quiet adult time and then adults heads hit the pillow with alarms set for 5:00 AM.
Cute moment:
-Wylie taught Delia her first word "uh oh". She learned it at dinner time and said it over and over and over again all evening!!
Shout Out:
-Fontaine-Routh family for coming to visit us and starting our vacation out on a fun note!!!!
We arrived at Progressive Field, Jacob Field for the old schoolers, at 12:00 just in time to hear the Start Spangled Banner as we walked across the parking lot to the field. Game time temp is 71 and our seats are in a nice open space. I guess that's a plus with going to a Thursday afternoon game, not a lot of other people are in attendance. All of the kids did great throughout the game. Cade was mesmerized for the first 2 innings and Wylie was just trying to take it all in with her little through poking out of her teeth. There were 2 home runs hit our way and that was great excitement for the boys. Lunch was pretzels, popcorn and brats/sausages with the works. Our kids are living the high life. We got up to walk around during the 6th inning to walk around and look at the stadium. Icees as big as the kids and singing "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" during the 7th inning stretch and a pink baseball for Wylie and a blue and red baseball for Cade during the 9th inning=HAPPINESS!!! The kids made it all the way through the game partially because it was so quick. We were in the car by 3:00. Indians won 6-1. We were able to get home in time to pack the car and have a decent dinner. It's clean out the fridge night, so yes, that meant another round of hot dogs and hamburgers. An after dinner soccer game, Dads vs Kids ,one last trip to the beach to find more treasures and sand castle building, a family pic in front of the lake and another round of sno cones rounded out our big day. Kids went in for some baths and before bed time wrestling and naked baby running to fully expend all energy before heads hit the pillow. We were able to have some more quiet adult time and then adults heads hit the pillow with alarms set for 5:00 AM.
Cute moment:
-Wylie taught Delia her first word "uh oh". She learned it at dinner time and said it over and over and over again all evening!!
Shout Out:
-Fontaine-Routh family for coming to visit us and starting our vacation out on a fun note!!!!
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Day 7- Adult Time
We started off the morning with doughnuts from a local doughnut institution that has been in business since 1938. I wouldn't say that they were the absolute best that I've ever had, certainly no potato doughnut, but I ate two without complaining quite easily. The kids were a little more edgy today and had a few squabbles here and there, but Jon and Odie took them to a park and all was restored. The kids were all on different nap schedules so we just took things slow and easy today and let them all "get their batteries recharged" as Grandpa Gary would say. Play hard, sleep hard is the life of a 2-4 year old. During nap times we talked to the parents and son of one of the owners and finally got the password for the internet. Once everyone was in a better mood the adults decided to show themselves a good time. We loaded all 5 kids up and took them to the Springhill Winery. It is owned by the owners of the house we are staying in and our hope is to find a wine from Ohio that we actually like. I guess that was one imperfection in our perfect day yesterday. All of the wine choices we made so far have been well below average. They are all super sweet and taste like bad grape juice. We have learned that we are dry wine drinkers...which I guess is the silver lining in that experience.
Springhill was a dream for Jon and I. It is exactly what we would love to have. The winery itself is rustic elegance with big wooden tables, leather couches, rock fire place and a oversized door that opens to a picnic table area. There are yummy foods served at one counter, wine served at another and a small gift shop at the front. We were greeted by Debbi, part owner of the house, with a basket full of toys for the kids and introduced ourselves to her. She was friendly and she helped us choose some wine to sample...we stuck to the dry side of the list. We decided on a Vidal to take home. Debbie talked to us a bit about the rentals and winery and we had a very pleasant time, especially since the kids kept themselves happy with the toys. As we walked out we took the kids over to see the miniature horse, Apple Blossom, and her other little horsey friends. Cade, of course, found the old greasy tractor to climb up on before I could get to him. Back at home we made chicken fajitas and drank our first good Ohio wine. Sno cones were the after dinner treat this evening and boy was it a hit. The kids were in aw watching Jon put the ice through and trying to figure out how the ice got crushed up, then they were off to me to pick a flavor and start the beginning of many head freezes!
The kids were pretty jazzed at bed time, so I talked Jon into driving me to Pennsylvania (20 miles) so we could lay claim to another state. My thought is, if it is that close we might as well, right? He graciously humored me and the kids calmed down during the drive so bed time went much easier than it would have otherwise. We enjoyed some more adult time with Odie and Kristin. Jon and I were finally able to have our anniversary cheesecake and even shared it. We all talked about highlights since marriage and had lots of laughs about life before kids and parenthood.
Springhill was a dream for Jon and I. It is exactly what we would love to have. The winery itself is rustic elegance with big wooden tables, leather couches, rock fire place and a oversized door that opens to a picnic table area. There are yummy foods served at one counter, wine served at another and a small gift shop at the front. We were greeted by Debbi, part owner of the house, with a basket full of toys for the kids and introduced ourselves to her. She was friendly and she helped us choose some wine to sample...we stuck to the dry side of the list. We decided on a Vidal to take home. Debbie talked to us a bit about the rentals and winery and we had a very pleasant time, especially since the kids kept themselves happy with the toys. As we walked out we took the kids over to see the miniature horse, Apple Blossom, and her other little horsey friends. Cade, of course, found the old greasy tractor to climb up on before I could get to him. Back at home we made chicken fajitas and drank our first good Ohio wine. Sno cones were the after dinner treat this evening and boy was it a hit. The kids were in aw watching Jon put the ice through and trying to figure out how the ice got crushed up, then they were off to me to pick a flavor and start the beginning of many head freezes!
The kids were pretty jazzed at bed time, so I talked Jon into driving me to Pennsylvania (20 miles) so we could lay claim to another state. My thought is, if it is that close we might as well, right? He graciously humored me and the kids calmed down during the drive so bed time went much easier than it would have otherwise. We enjoyed some more adult time with Odie and Kristin. Jon and I were finally able to have our anniversary cheesecake and even shared it. We all talked about highlights since marriage and had lots of laughs about life before kids and parenthood.
Day 6- Perfection
We slept in and didn't have to repack or wake a sleeping child. That in itself is perfection....WE ARE ON VACATION!!! Odie made pancakes, Jon went into town to get some coffee and the kids just played all morning. You really don't get much better than that. Around 11:30 we went into Geneva-on-the-Lake. First stop, Firehouse winery. The kids like it as much as the adult. There were fire trucks all over and a big water slide & ferris wheel to talk about going on when they get big. Bottles of wine were $8, so we got one to try. Second stop was getting tats for the kids. Wylie and Quinn were the brave ones to go under the airbrush :-) Wylie got a pink and purple butterfly...seriously who's little girl is this...way too girly for me sometimes :-) Quinn got a green elephant that is spraying water. They were very proud of them and didnt' mind showing them off to anyone. Third stop was Eddie's Grill home of the "famous foot long hot dog." I have to admit it was a good hot dog....maybe even the best I've ever had and that says a lot coming from a non-hot dog-liker. Walking back to get some ice cream, Cade started freaking out. First was just to freak out and throw a temper tantrum, the second was over a row of motorcycles. I had to seriously peel him off of them kicking and screaming. He got happy again once I threw him into the car and he got to play driver for me. Jon and the rest of the clan went to get ice cream. He brought back what he hadn't finished by the time he had to help Wylie with her "kid sized" cone. While both Kristin and I were gone a lady stopped to ask if she could take a picture of Jon and Odie taking care of the kids because there was no way her husband would have done that. We do have good ones.
We got back to the house and Jon and Odie took the kids out to fly kites. I think that's the best $5 we have ever spent! Those four little bodies were laughing, running, chasing, grabbing and squealing to their hearts content. We then went back to the beach area and Wylie was very happy to finally be able to wear her pink flowered swimming shoes. Sometimes I wished adults to laugh, squeel and get as much satisfaction out of little thinks like waves hitting your feed as kids do. Dinner was grilled veggie sandwiches followed by birthday presents for the Fontaine kids. Just before nightfall Jon lit up the fire pit and we roasted ourselves up some s'mores. What a fun and memory filled way to end the day. Quinn and Wylie learned that they liked their s'mores warm, but not roasted and Cade learned that he could say "s'more" quite clearly :-) We gave baths to the kids to get the campfire smell out of their hair and then took them down to watch the sunset over Lake Erie. Perfect end to a perfect day.
We got back to the house and Jon and Odie took the kids out to fly kites. I think that's the best $5 we have ever spent! Those four little bodies were laughing, running, chasing, grabbing and squealing to their hearts content. We then went back to the beach area and Wylie was very happy to finally be able to wear her pink flowered swimming shoes. Sometimes I wished adults to laugh, squeel and get as much satisfaction out of little thinks like waves hitting your feed as kids do. Dinner was grilled veggie sandwiches followed by birthday presents for the Fontaine kids. Just before nightfall Jon lit up the fire pit and we roasted ourselves up some s'mores. What a fun and memory filled way to end the day. Quinn and Wylie learned that they liked their s'mores warm, but not roasted and Cade learned that he could say "s'more" quite clearly :-) We gave baths to the kids to get the campfire smell out of their hair and then took them down to watch the sunset over Lake Erie. Perfect end to a perfect day.
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