Yellowstone Adventure–Day 2

Small waterfall in Yellowstone

Mammoth Hot Springs

I thought this looked strange – all the colored travertine made from the mineral deposits over the years.  It is constantly changing, and growing, which makes it really neat.

Boardwalk through the hot springs and mud volcanoes.  Signs everywhere warned against getting off the boardwalk, lest you fall through the thin crust of the earth and be literally boiled alive.  Okay – I was a little nervous  as my kids ran headlong down the walk.  Breathed a sigh of relief when we were out of that part!

This looks like a winterscape, but it is actually a tree in a field of travertine that has, over time, been sucked up into the tree’s system, and has hardened it with minerals until the tree is practically petrified.  These trees can stand like this for years, even though they are dead.  Amazing!

Picnic lunch at the park.  Notice the bear-proof trash cans in the background.

The kids got a real kick out of this magpie who found a grape that someone dropped in the picnic area.  it does sort of remind one of a pig with an apple in its mouth!

Along the Blacktail Drive – it was lovely!

We just couldn’t pass up the opportunity to dip our tootsies in the chilly waters of Lake Yellowstone!

Some people {ahem} threw rocks instead of wading.

We really had a good time together, just driving around the massive park and looking at all the beautiful things God has created.

Cabin in the Woods

Since we are traveling without our trailer for several weeks (did I tell the whole trailer repair/insurance saga?) some friends of ours gave us the use of their cabin in “the big woods” of northern Minnesota for a week between our meetings.  It had a twofold purpose – it got us out of their house and hair for the week, and we got a family vacation (it may have been our first ever, now that I think of it)!  Now there are some who would say that an evangelist is on a perpetual vacation, but that is only because they have not traveled with four children and a seemingly endless supply of deadlines.  We have managed to see some great things in our travels, but it is far from what anyone would call a vacation!  So, since that particular myth has now been busted, I will continue with my original story. :)

We had the run of a lovely little cabin far from everywhere in Talmoon, MN.  The leaves had just passed their peak, and the weather was cool, but still very nice.  We just sat around after school each day and played games, did jigsaw puzzles, and enjoyed a week without deadlines.  We even had some snow!

The cabin was situated on Lake Big Too Much (okay, I thought that was a very funny name), so we were able to see the lovely water each day.  The days were mostly overcast, but this particular day was sunny, so I took the opportunity to take a few scenic photos.

Altogether, it was a very relaxing time, and we are grateful to our friends for allowing us to use their cabin in the woods. 

What is your favorite vacation memory?

A Tisket, A Tasket…

Thoughtfulness in a basket.  That’s what we had for breakfast this morning.  It was actually in the form of fresh blueberry muffins, bananas, and orange juice.  Maybe you are puzzled by the special-ness of this, but I will explain.

Paul and I are on a no-kids vacation getaway!   It is one of those time-share deals – you know, listen to the spiel for two hours, and get a few nights in a hotel.  :)  My mom and step-father drove down from Ohio to stay with the children.  I am forever grateful to them.  I know they will have a great time with the grandkids, and I hope they are not totally worn out by Friday!

We are on our way to Charleston, SC, which happens to be one of our favorite places.  I love the southern charm and the old architecture of the city.  There are so many different things to see and do for little or no cost, too.  We only made it to the greater Atlanta area last night, and ate dinner with some college acquaintances, Josh and Alicia.  We had a very fun dinner with them and their family, as well as a great time of fellowship.  We stayed in the prophet’s chamber at their church, which was a real blessing to us.  Alicia gave us a basket for our breakfast, which was just so thoughtful.  It was also quite yummy!  Thanks to both of you for your hospitality and friendship!