1,080 Miles, 4 Kids, a Husband, and a Headache

I'm getting old. There is no way to soften that blow its just out there. I'm cranky, tired, and old. My hips hurt, my feet hurt, my back hurts, my head hurts, and I wanna sleep!

I've been making the journey from Dallas to the St Louis area for about 14 years now. Atleast once a year and it used to be more often than that. Who's bright idea was it to cram all 6 of us into the mini van and drive across the country for a 48 hour visit with the in laws???????

Oh yeah ~ mine! (Note to self ~ "Think before speaking")

Its always nice to visit but oh I HATE that drive. Especially with the 4 kids... Did I mention we have those? I SWEAR if I ever win the lotto I'm buying an RV. That way they can atleast be 10 feet away from me instead of right on top of me for 9 straight hours! I told Vince if he got me one of those I might make the trip every other month, but otherwise he would have to settle for once a year.

Here are a few highlightes from our Labor Day weekend. Hope yours was pleasant and more restful than mine. ;-)

My 2000 Ford Windstar hits 100,000 miles about the time we reach Springfield, MO.

Madilyn trying to distract Grandpa with all her witt and charm. (It worked at one point)



We took the kids out to Meramac Springs and ate lunch then fed the fish in the hatchery. Amy got some great photos but my battery went down. I did by chance get these though.



Jason got us a great military rate at a wonderful Holiday Inn Express. Amy and I took the kids back early Sat. night for the popcorn and movie.

Then a dip in the pool and hot tub.

Back at Grandpa's on Sunday. The adults finally give in to the "Please can we go fishin". Here's Vince trying to prepare 6 poles for 8 kids!

Caitlyn the "Master Fisherwoman".......... Actually caught a 10 pound bass. All by herself with her Barbie fishing pole! No, I'm not joking. There is no picture to prove it because I was in the house trying to grab the camera and the fish fell from Jason's hands back into the lake. But it WAS HUGE!

Here is catch number 2. Note smile on girls face is still large and proud! :)

Vince then teaches Josh how to bate his hook. While Caitlyn catches fish #3!

Noah catches a fish and note Girl in background actually touching it! Ewwwwww!

Last evening at Grandpa's and enjoying a quick popsicle. Mom takes out camera and plays with settings. I love this black and white. Her face describes everything I was feeling at the moment.

After a night in my own bed I feel a tad better although my rear is still sore. LOL! Sorry to complain I know I'm blessed but sometimes its nice to get the whining out..... Thanks for listening.