VACATION!!

We begin our story just outside of Nashville, at a Cracker Barrel, where we had an early dinner. We had done church that morning and were driving the rest of the day to Chattanooga to stay with Abby and Mary for a few days. Amos discovered the golf tee game (the one that tells you how smart you are) and that he liked dipping chicken fingers directly in butter. Of course, we are all for that!

We arrived in Chattanooga that night and got settled. The next day, we went for breakfast at a local coffee shop (Sadly, we have few local coffee shops in Indy that aren't Starbucks. So, we drink alot of Starbucks!), and had lunch by the water. We played at Coolidge Park and then Amos spent the afternoon with Abby and Mary, exploring the park and playing together. It was really warm out--flip flop weather--so Abby found the only pair of shorts we brought--Amos' swim trunks--and slathered sunscreen on him for optimal outdoor play.

That night, we enjoyed duck wrapped in bacon, (meat that Mary's dad hunted) among other things, and enjoyed hanging out with some of Abby's Chattown friends.

On Tuesday, we went for breakfast at another great little coffeeshop, played with GrrMe Carole, said goodbye to our beautiful hostesses and then headed to Nashvegas.

The drive was comparitively short and soon, Amos figured out where we were! He was so excited to be at GrrDada and GrrMama's house and to see the dogs. We immediately found a bulldozer and Amos got to work in the driveway! We visited the woodpile and did some rearranging; played guitar inside and had a fun time with GrrMama doing "This Little Piggy."

On Wednesday, Amos accomplished his best stacking job yet: a four car stack. He was quite proud that he had gotten that many cars stacked!

Later that day, we were pleasantly surprised when Uncle Jesse rolled up. He had the day off due to inclement weather and came over to do some yardwork for Mom and Dad. He also was there to prepare for a bonfire to be held for Abby's birthday, so he and Amos had a fine time piling up the wood. Then it was time for throwing rocks in the pond. After dark, we went in for a (manly) tea party and a harmonica serenade from Nathan, who had just bought a new harmonica holder. It was great to see Uncle Jesse--Amos loves to play with him!

On Thursday, we got it in gear and made it to Goodwill before lunch and nap time. There's a relatively new Goodwill in Franklin that we always hear great things about. And we were not disappointed! I found lots of great shirts for Amos, and a sweater and a brand new pair of jeans for me. Amos also got a Piglet and Spider Man shoes, which he loves!

That evening, Nathan and I packed up for our overnight getaway! It was our first time to leave Amos overnight since he came home from the hospital and I was a bit sad, saying goodbye. But he had a blast with GrrMama and GrrDada and we had a great time away. We went and had dinner at City House, where our brother-in-law, Aaron, is the Sous Chef (second in charge!). He put together a menu just for us and our waitress was great about serving wines that paired nicely with the food. We were joined by my college friend, Beckie and her husband, Stuart, and we literally sat for a long time, talking and enjoying the dishes. I can barely remember the names of everything we ate, but I do know this--it was extremely tasty. Christen stopped by for a minute and said hi and we thanked her and Aaron for such a great night!

On Friday, Nathan and I slept in!!! and went to Downtown Franklin for coffee and lunch. It was so nice out that we sat outside and enjoyed our cafe lunches. Dad met us and we headed to the super awesome warehouse that sells cheap guitars. Nathan found a beaut and was excited to find a guitar that had the sound he loves. It was especially fun to see Dad and Nathan playing together--again confirming Amos' fate as a musician! I love my musicians!!

On Friday night, we celebrated Abby's birthday. We made dinner--crab legs and steak with salad and mango/bean salad. Ab had a few friends over and we had a blast, eating, singing happy birthday and having cake, opening presents and yes, dancing to the Birthday Song! Later that night, we went down to the front pasture for the bonfire. Jesse had a blast making it happen!

Jesse's special finale was putting my parents' dried out Christmas tree on the fire, which made it blaze! We all stood back and watched the sight!

On Valentine's Day, we celebrated with presents and sweet cards (the kind you get to give to every kid in the class--my mom is still working through her Muppets cards box!). Amos got a new Snoopy shirt that says, "Call Me!" and as usual, enjoyed having everyone around. GrrMe came over to play and it was great to be reminded of our awesome family. That afternoon, us girls (me, Mom, Abby and Mary) went out to see "New In Town" the newest Renee Zellwegger film. Even though it only got one and a half stars, we enjoyed it. When we left the movie, we found roses left on the carseat--a present from Nathan. It was my first time to get roses and they were beautiful! Mom and I went on for some shopping while everyone else played at home. It was a fun day!

On Sunday, we went to the early church service with Mom and Dad and were happy that we all made it, mostly on time, so early! After church, we went to a coffee shop for more coffee and brunch and then went home for naps. I slept sooooo well! I had not slept very much that week (it's so hard so sleep--you're afraid you'll miss out!) and felt like a new person after my nap. Jesse came over again and the boys played soccer outside with the dogs. Finally, it was time to go in and for Jesse to leave. It was sad to say goodbye and we hoped to see each other again, soon! Amos got a bath from GrrMama--which they both love!--and had snuggles and a breathing treatment. We were so thankful that neither of Mom's ladies went into labor and that she was able to play and be with us the whole time!

On Monday morning, we woke up and dreaded the packing. Amos got in more GrrMama and outside time while Nathan and I took turns packing up. We finally drove away, packed to our necks in treasures, sad that we were leaving but thankful for the time we had together. It was a great vacation!