A Short Afternoon Project

Last spring, I came up with some small home improvement projects.  I guess they weren't too small, though, because I thought of them and Chris did all the work.  We have thoroughly enjoyed our first project.  After a crazy, weird, but good summer, Chris finally got around to project #2...installing cabinets in our laundry room.  I really like it that I can no longer see my cleaning supplies giving it a much neater and cleaner look.  So thankful my husband enjoys these type of jobs and follows up with my wishes!

 After

Before

Our Tiny Visitor

We've been enjoying this little visitor the last few days.  After some inspiration from Grandpa and the hummingbird checking out our wind chimes, I decided to pull out our hummingbird feeder.  We've all been delighted to watch this little guy (or gal) come and go all throughout the day.  I always thought they flew while eating, but this one sits quite often.  You can then see how truly tiny they really are.  Such a delight to get such a glimpse of God's handiwork!

High as the Heavens - Book Review

I really, really enjoyed this book.  It did not follow the typical format for a Christian fiction book.  However, it didn't lack any suspense or dull moments.  This book was full of surprises from one of the first beginning chapters to the end of the book.  In fact, the author kept the plot moving so much that at times I felt like I was watching a suspenseful TV show rooting for my favorite characters. I really didn't want it to end.  The author did a wonderful job of character development and you could feel the tension and adrenaline behind many of the scenarios the main characters found themselves in.  I also did not know much about World War I.  I was prompted to do a bit of research on my own as a bit of the WWI history played a part in the story.  If you want a good book filled with suspense, intrigue and beautiful character relationships, than this is a book for you!

I received a complimentary copy of High as the Heavens by Kate Breslin from Bethany House Publishers.

A Hodge-Podge Vacation

 We have had a bit of a hodge podge vacation this year, but we've still had fun.  Early in June, we headed to the Windy City for a few days.  Later that month, we headed south and east for a two part vacation.  This time we decided on Mammoth Cave National Park (south) and stops at both grandparents (east).  The logistics were rather convoluted,  but most of the plan worked out for us to make the best use of the little time we had. 

Chris was able to join us for the southern journey.  Chris & I had visited the caves before, but it was the first time for the Trio.  We took on the two longest tours they give.  The kids did great.  The lantern tour proved to be everyone's favorite, though.  They passed out 10 lanterns for about 40 people on the tour supposedly bringing back similar experiences of those that have gone before us.  Times like that always make me wonder what possessed native americans and frontiersman to enter a hole in the ground with only the light of a torch.  Fun times and we did dodge the rain.....

Chris then drove out with us to Virginia to visit with his family (east).  That's when the logistics got a bit interesting.  He was scheduled to fly so he ended up at the nearest airport to fly home and I stayed with the kids for the next week as we visited family.  We first camped with Chris's parents and the other two Robey grandkids.  Followed by a trip back to his parent's house.  While there, we took advantage of the rich history of the area.  Finally, we made a stop at my parents for a day on our way home. 

All that to say, we did a lot in a short amount of time.  Even typing all of that makes me tired.  I think I am finally recovering a bit after being home now for a week.

After two long years packed away, we got our tent back out and enjoyed unplugging and being in nature again (ok, I don't completely "rough it")

  We do enjoy good visits to the National Parks!

 I had a few minutes after dropping Chris off before heading to the campground.  It was fun to take in a couple of historic areas.  This home has hosted George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and even served as a hospital during the Civil War.

 Cousin Time!

 Luke helping to chop wood.  Yes, Luke and I have already had a discussion about appropriate wood chopping attire the next time - for starters, shoes!

 Had to chop that wood for s'mores!

 Getting some bean breaking tips from Grandpa Robey.  Luke was his shadow every time there was something to do in the garden or with his chickens.

 The road to Appomattox with the McLean home where General Lee surrendered to Grant.  We learned a lot here!

 Taking a break with Grandma Robey at Appomattox

 Final stop, the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Virginia where they lost the most soldiers per capita on D-Day.  We took an hour and a half walking tour and again learned a lot.  

Unfortunately, I forgot to get my camera out at my parents.  However, we did "love" our time away from home and with our family!