When one of my best friends, Rachel asked me in March if I'd be interested in doing a "Mama Vacation" sometime in the summer to go visit her hometown in Mobile, Alabama I was instantly excited. As the days approached my excitement turned to anxiety as I had never left the kiddos more than 48 hours and we were doing a week getaway. Now that I am home I have nothing but smiles on my face and nonstop joyful stories to tell. Beyond thankful that she asked me and that Dad encouraged me to do it. Dad even knew I had so much fun I think he as well as Rachel's husband, Aaron became a little fearful that this maybe become an annual thing...and it just might :)
The Trip
We left Sunday morning bright and early on the Amtrak Train. We landed in Chicago, Illinois and spent the evening there. We boarded around 8 PM and arrived the next morning at 11 in Jackson, Mississippi where Rachel's dad picked us up. We then drove to Mobile to meet her mom, settle in and relax a little. We spent Tuesday to Thursday evening visiting her favorite spots, meeting friends and eating southern food that I have never ate nor even heard of. On Friday her amazing parents (Al and Wilma) drove us to New Orleans where we spent half the day exploring the town and experiencing the culture down there. Arrived back on the train at 2 Pm to arrive home late Saturday evening.
Top Favorite Things (besides all the talking and hanging out with Rachel)
-Spending afternoons at Gulf Shores with white sand and a book
-Spotting alligators while at "Alligator Alley"
-Seeing 4 dolphins swimming while riding the ferry
-Experiencing a live radio station and commercials being made at her mom's studio
-Eating delicious meals in peace with no preparation or clean up
I was gone all last week, Dad still had to work during the days so the kiddos were blessed with Grandpa and Grandma all day everyday. We couldn't have done the week without them and were so appreciative of their time, love and effort throughout the week. They spoiled the kiddos with nonstop fun of going to the movies, Science Museum, out to eat, and the zoo. We just hope they had as much fun as the kiddos and want to come back and do it again sometime in the near future.
A HUGE thank you to Grandpa and Grandma for all you did. Love you lots.
Yesterday, Andover had their annual "Family Fun Fest" involving, inflatables, concessions, exhibits and a parade. As in years in the past we walked in the parade for our good friends and chiropractor, Dr. Tony Lawther at Essential Life Chiropractic. The kids did great and it was the first time that all four walked it, no stroller. Super fun day.
