Up On The Rooftop

The recent run of nice weather has kept us outside a lot the past week. Over the weekend we decided to take advantage of the mild temperatures and pull out the Christmas lights for the house. We know it is early for Christmas lights but couldn't pass up this opportunity. I checked bulbs and fastened clips then handed them off to Steve to hang (I don't do ladders). The kids begged to go topside when dad climbed out the second story window and despite my reservations dad allowed it. They were very careful and dad was very watchful. The lights are all now up and we will wait until closer to Christmas to actually turn them on.

What Doesn't Kill Us Makes Us Stronger

E is living by Nietzsche's words these days. She is up horribly early to get ready for school and catch the bus every day at 6:55. She gets home from school and has time to do a little homework, grab a snack, change, eat a very early dinner and get rushed off to Annie. She typically gets home at night by 11:30 and starts all over again.

She is loving Annie though, even with the tiring schedule. She is having fun on stage and has been complimented many times (often behind her back) for helping so much backstage with the "little ones" between their scenes. Several of the very young orphans have brought her flowers and colored pictures for her.

The show sold out before opening night (a first for the theater) and they have six shows left to do. I have no doubt that one week after the show closes I will hear complaints of "I'm bored" and life will return to normal.

Santa Claus Again

Over Labor Day weekend we were able to take a short trip out to Santa Claus, IN. After much searching on the internet we had secured a campsite with full hook-ups in Rockport, IN. We felt fortunate to have found it as everything within 30 miles of Santa Claus was booked solid. We hooked up the camper and headed out. Rockport is about 20 miles south of our destination but it worked out just fine. The staff and locals were very friendly and helpful, getting us settled into our site after dark.

The next morning we drove up to Holiday World to take in all the rides and enjoy the water park. We rode roller coasters, swirly rides and all the water park rides until we were worn out. We encountered minor rain showers at the end of the day but were ready to leave anyway. The next day was a repeat of the first without the water park side. There was a temporary delay when the emergency warning system (yes, the one you hear on the radio) went off, announcing severe thunderstorms in the area. We headed for an indoor restaurant and relaxed with cookies and free soda while the storm passed. The remainder of the day turned out to be sunny and humid. The last ride of the day on the roller coaster brought with it a small rain shower but the girls claimed that it just made it better. That night at the camper we were rocked with numerous thunderstorms but we were secure and dry.

Monday was our "sleep in" day. After a slow start we packed up and headed home. Tuesday brought school for both girls and mom so we had to get back. It was a fun weekend.

Our Trip

Just a quick note to let everyone know we have posted some pictures from our trips.

Click here for Seattle photos.

Click here for Talkeetna photos.