Long car rides

We try to make the best of them, since we've been making 12-hour car trips to MN (to visit grandparents) usually twice a year for the past eight years. Obviously, toddlers have the roughest time because they get bored. Fortunately, (for car rides), we're growing out of the toddler stage. Our boys were phenomenal, but Lucy was in hysterics quite a bit, saying, "Mommy, look at me! I want to get out and kiss you. I want to hold you (meaning, she want's to be held). Please, let me OUT!" It's agonizing to listen to. After doing everything possible to console her, I was grateful to have earplugs handy. Both Brad and I slipped them in to take the edge off. But, beyond the car ride, we had a wonderful trip.

The main purpose of the visit was to witness the sealing of our adopted nephew, David, to his parents. It was beautiful! Brad’s dad was able to perform the sealing, which made it even more special. Then, we headed next door to the church where David was given a name and a father’s blessing. I was so glad to be a part of all of it. What a special occasion.

We also celebrated our dear little Lucy's 3rd birthday while there. She loved blowing out the candles on the cake and getting a present from grandma. And, true to form, she managed only to eat junk food nearly the entire trip.

Minnesota is absolutely gorgeous this time of year- trees and lakes everywhere. The boys always love to walk to a lake nearby Brad's parents house and throw rocks, etc. Of course, they always promise not to get wet and dirty and that lasts about five minutes. Before you know it, they've stripped down to their underwear and they're swimming in the lake. I can't blame them. I'd want to do the same thing if I were younger.

One of my favorite things to do each time we go is walk on the trails. They have miles of trails that wind through trees and lakes, and for me, it's so peaceful and therapeutic to be out in the fresh air getting exercise. This year, I brought the boys' rollerblades, thinking they'd just love roller blading on the trails while I walked. But, boy was I wrong. My anticipated hour-long repose turned into an hour long bad attitude and complaining session. By the end, one of the boys had taken his roller blades off and thrown them into the bushes, vowing to never to take another walk again. So, there went my great idea. I still enjoyed walking, but next time I'll go alone.

Brad's parents live in a perfect location for kids. They have at least an acre at the end of a quiet culdesac. So, we had a few quiet days just playing catch, climbing trees and running around the gorgeous backyard. The kids spent several hours outside each day, which I loved.

We also went down to the St. Croix river where we watched the boats and walked along the waters edge. We saw two giant St. Bernards, which were fascinating to look at. And then grandpa thrilled everyone with a trip to the local ice cream store where everyone enjoyed massive scoops of ice cream. We sang happy birthday to Lucy and she was in heaven as she gobbled down her goods.

And, last, but not least, I forced my family to pose for a few pictures for memories sake. They cringe when I even mention pictures or pull the camera out, but someday, they'll thank me for capturing these treasured moments.