And While We Were Away...

Leaving is always so difficult. We got up, ate breakfast, and then packed up the Traverse to go to DIA. There's always this feeling of extreme sadness when leaving any family. We absolutely love being in New England and wouldn't want to live anywhere else, but the thought of being so far away from family is just a tough pill to have to swallow...every time we leave. We checked in & walked slowly to the security area. You always hope for more time. Just one more chat. One more hug. One more memory, but the security line was long and we had a plane to catch. We also had Taigen back home slaving away, responsibilities to attend to, a few more classes to finish up in homeschooling. It was time to leave. I cried and cried. Okay. I sobbed. Fellow travellers probably thought I needed to get a grip, or maybe they understood. It didn't really matter to me.

We got in line, turned, and waved. Dad and Cathy stood there waving to us and watching us leave. We would walk a few steps, turn and wave. They would be there waiting and waving as well. It was so hard. And then, when they were just a little speck in the distance, I saw them wave one last time, turn and walk away. It's gut-wrenching, I tell you. Only the knowledge that you are where God wants you to be can get you through moments like this. I was thankful to have two little munchkins there with me, to comfort me and give me hugs. It made it bearable. I'm already ready to go back to Colorado. Like...yesterday. Unfortunately, flights cost money.

The flight home was uneventful. There were televisions on the back of each seat. We found a cooking channel. Watching this is definitely more profitable than cartoons in ugly, sponge-like forms, sporting equally annoying pants. You get my drift, surely. Since we didn't have headphones (and I'm too cheap to "buy" JetBlue's), we just enjoyed watching the chefs cook. I think I actually preferred it this way. We were left guessing at ingredients and menus. We even made up our own dialogue! Between this and our books, the time on the four-hour flight passed rather quickly.

Taigen came to pick us up in Boston. He had packed us a dinner to eat on the way home (he is ever-thoughtful). We got all caught up. He was glad that his family was home and I was happy to be reunited with my hubby  and the kids had so much to tell him! You know, having him with us would have been the only thing to make our vacation to Colorado absolutely perfect. He had been very busy though.

This is what we walked home to on Friday night...

This is what you see when you first come down the stairs and turn left. The ugly, green wall is GONE!

The "L" part of our basement that used to house our couches & TV. It looks so much better!

View from the far corner of the basement, facing the stairs leading up.


We now have a blank slate. You can see from the last picture the ugly, flat, green paint that we've been staring at for the past four years. It is time for it to depart. I don't have anything against green, but I DO have something against flat green paint with multiple nail holes & scuffs, paired with an inspirational sayings sports-themed wallpaper. It was ugly. The former owner didn't do a great job of building his "Man Cave" so we were only too happy to tear it down and start afresh. Taigen had done a tremendous job of ripping everything down, disposing of junk, or running trips to the donation center. He worked so hard while we were gone.

More Sewing

Tonight Cathy came home with even more fabric. Remember that I told you that she had more up her sleeve? Shaylen had mentioned that she liked a puzzle fabric at Hobby Lobby. Cathy knew she wanted to make her some culottes with some of that puzzle fabric on it. She also thought she could make Marshall some lounge-y shorts out of airplane fabric. Tonight after dinner, Cathy set up her sewing machine and got to work. Soon she produced the cutest little pair of culottes for Shaylen and shortly after that, a pair of shorts for Marshall! It was a wonderful parting gift from their Grandma. Aren't they just darling?!?!

The Last Day - Swim Day

Thursday was our last day in Colorado. It is a sad thought even now. The kids had asked Grandpa if they could go to the pool again. It seemed like the perfect way to conclude our trip.

School was still in session so we enjoyed the benefits (as homeschoolers) of having the place, literally, to ourselves. It was a very special two-on-one time with Grandpa. They had so much fun. No doubt, my dad slept very well after a vacation with his twins.

 

Wiener Roast

We all thought it would be a fun idea to roast hot dogs over Dad & Cathy's fire pit for dinner on one of our last night's in CO. This was something the kids had never done and were a little apprehensive, to be honest. I think Shaylen thought she would catch the house on fire or something.

After dinner, Dad and Cathy pulled out Hershey's chocolate, graham crackers, and the huge campfire marshmallows in order to make s'mores. This appealed a bit more to Shaylen (obviously, since it involved sugar and carbs!) and by now they were "experts." She got a little worried when her first marshmallow promptly caught on fire, but then managed to learn how to slowly get it golden brown. It was a fun evening.

A storm rolled in this night. I wish I could bottle up the smell of Colorado rain. There is nothing, and I mean nothing like it. It just smells so good. Ask any Colorado native and they will tell you the same thing. The rain poured, and the thunder and lightning were so huge that it woke up all of the kids. I found it extremely relaxing and fell asleep to the drumming of the rain.

Sewing Talents

Cathy & I were folding laundry one day. Cathy had some hand-me-down culottes of Shaylen's. As Cathy was folding them, she commented, "Someone made these for Shaylen." I had to tell her that, no, they weren't made for Shaylen, but they had belonged to someone that used them for their cross country team. I also told Cathy how much Shaylen loves them and would wear them every day if I let her (and they stayed clean). So Cathy, being Cathy said that they wouldn't be hard to make, and how we should go to Hobby Lobby and pick out some material. She could surely whip some up before we headed home. I have a hard enough time sewing something with a pattern, let alone without one, but Cathy loves this kind of thing. In fact, she's made oodles of things for the kids before (blankets, pajamas, doll clothes, Bible covers, backpacks, and car organizers to name a few). I think she loves making things for the grandkids because it makes things extra special and memorable. I even have a dress of Shaylen's that has buttons that belonged to my Grandma LeDoux!

We did take a trip to Hobby Lobby. It is a dangerous place, not just because of the home decor, the craft section and the fabric section, but because of the stamping section! I could have gone nuts! I managed to exhibit some self-control and purchase only a few things. I pried myself away and meandered over to the fabric section to procure some fabric for Shaylen. After all, that was our original intent, right?

In a matter of hours, Cathy had made Shaylen some new culottes. Shaylen wanted to wear them and I obliged. Aren't they just so cute?!?! Thank you, Grandma Cathy!

Stay tuned for more sewing pictures. Cathy had more up her sleeve!

Leanin' Tree "Field Trip"

On Tuesday, we hung out at the house for a bit, but then made our way in to Leanin' Tree in order to have lunch with Cathy at work. Leanin' Tree has these beautiful statues on the grounds and absolutely stunning paintings and sculptures inside their Museum of Western Art. I cannot believe that I forgot my camera, but thankfully, Dad took some pictures with his phone and forwarded them to me. After looking at everything outside, we went inside and slowly looked at all of the paintings and sculptures inside. The kids were amazed at all of the detail.

Dad called Cathy & got her order for lunch, went to Quiznos and then came back to eat on the grounds. What a nice day for a picnic. Afterwards, Cathy took the kids on a mini-tour through her workplace to introduce the kids to her co-workers. It had been a while since we had been in there.

On our way back home, we stopped and picked up some more fabric from Hobby Lobby. We stopped off at Gram's house (Cathy's mom) and met the baby chicks, the chickens, and two kittens! What an experience for the kids. It was awesome. We sat and chatted a bit and then made our way back home.

Fun With Cousins

The kids have had a wonderful time hanging out with their cousins Dillon & Colton. We're not technically related, but we'll claim them anyway. Dillon & Colton are Cathy's son Andrew's kids. They are super sweet and love hanging out with Marshall and Shaylen. Colton has been around a bit more this vacation than Dillon, plus they are close in age, so they have enjoyed spending time together. They have gotten along really, really well. I'd have to ask Dad and Cathy, but I don't recall one single time when they fought. They enjoyed each other's company and loved having playmates close by.

Fun With the Furry Friends

Dad & Cathy have three pets: Cadillac the dog, and Twilight & Starlight the cats. Marshall couldn't wait to get to Colorado to see his "best friend" Cadillac. He is such a great dog, and Marshall is quiet and patient enough that Cadillac loves Marshall too. If he could've, Marshall would have brought Cadillac home with him.

The cats were hesitant, but soon realized that we weren't going to hurt them. They were soon wanting to crawl in our beds, open our bedroom doors (yes, they can), climb in our laps, and play with us. They are so sweet.

Colorado Springs - The Mega Field Trip

One of the things the kids had wanted to do while in Colorado was visit a cave. I grew up visiting the Cave of the Winds several times and definitely wanted the kids to have that experience. Thankfully, Dad & Cathy were willing to oblige!

The trip down was wonderful. I was reading a wonderful & historical book, but was sure to look up and enjoy the view too. I love how Pike's Peak just rises up out of nowhere to show off it's snow & crags. (I took this picture from the car as we were driving down I-25.) There's NOTHING like the Rocky Mountains. I miss this mountain view tremendously. It's not something I think about continually, but when I get out to Colorado, I just love looking at them.

To our surprise (& Cathy's), we stopped at my Uncle Ray & Auntie MaryLou's house. Cave of the Winds and Garden of the Gods is practically in their backyard so they were going to be joining us. Of all of my family on my Dad's side, Uncle Ray & Auntie MaryLou have been the closest. I love it when Dad & MaryLou get together. They are a riot. Uncle Ray can keep us all on our toes too!

Our first stop was the Cave of the Winds...

I would have posted pictures, but the lighting within the cave, as you can imagine, is dark. I absolutely love it on the tour when they tell you to stand still and they turn off the lights. You literally cannot see your hand in front of your face. It was SO dark that I could only see the little dots marking the hours on a man's watch. I'm not thinking this was Marshall & Shaylen's favorite part, but it was memorable.

After the cave tour, we went to lunch. I enjoyed a chipotle wrap at this really neat restaurant and the kids devoured their lunch too.

Next stop, Garden of the Gods...

Just like Pike's Peak rises up out of seemingly nowhere, so do the red rock formations. They provide such a stark contrast between the beautiful, big blue sky and the green of the evergreen trees and scrub brush. Aren't they beautiful. The kids loved climbing and exploring and saying, "Here, Mom. Take a picture of me here," and striking a pose. There are too many to post, but I will put on some of my favorites. It was a wonderful and memorable day.

Must be the fresh Colorado air. He has super-human strength today!

 

My Uncle Ray & Auntie MaryLou.

Sunday Night Humor

We went back to Faith for a Sunday evening service. I was able to chat with a few more before the service. The lady behind me told me, "I'm glad you're back tonight. Do you think you'll start coming here?" I chuckled again at the thought, "I have been away a long time!" It's a very funny feeling to grow up in a church and school, get married at the church, move away, and then come back after years and not know many there. It's not a bad feeling, just a different one.

After the service we blitzed home to spend some of the evening with Dad and Cathy before having to head to bed. Another toy that they have is an X-box. Dillon and Colton had introduced Marshall and Shaylen to bowling. For many of you, I don't have to explain what an X-box is, but I know for others of you, I do. I certainly needed an explanation. It's a video game, but there are no controllers or joysticks. There is a sensor that can "see" your movements and base the game off of that.

Dad, Cathy, Marshall, Shaylen and I played bowling. This was fairly tame. Marshall did really well! But then, Dad & Cathy put in Field and Track. This started the hilarity. We laughed so hard. That is an understatement. I don't know what is more funny: watching someone play this game (running in place, jumping in place, throwing javelins in place, running marathons in place, etc.), or watching the character on the video game actually do what you are doing (falling, jumping, or not jumping hurdles, throwing javelins into the crowd, etc.). It was a wonderful and hilarious time.

No, there are NO pictures. Sorry, I was too busy holding my sides. I was laughing so hard it hurt!

Sunday Afternoon Drive Back In Time

On Sunday, the kids and I were able to go to Faith Baptist Church. It's funny how every time I go back, I know less and less people. When we arrived at the church, I knew I had been gone a long time when the man at the door said, "Welcome! How are you today?" When I answered, "Very Well," he said, "We're glad to have you here. Is this your first time here at Faith?"

It was great to see "old" friends. Of course, they never age, and never change, but no doubt I have more gray hair since the last time I was there.

We came home to a wonderful lunch prepared by Cathy (always delicious). After lunch, Dad pulled out the Cadillac. I was sitting and chatting with Cathy when Dad came in and offered to take the kids and me for a Sunday afternoon drive. We couldn't resist. I knew it would mean having to redo my hair (because of course the top would be down), but I didn't care. The car is just so cool!

Dad didn't take it too fast and I loved the warm Colorado day and the breeze blowing everything around. It was a memorable drive for both the kids and me. Thanks, Dad! We love your Cadillac!

Grandpa's Toys

Every kid has his toys. Grandpa just happens to be a 60-something-year-old kid...with cool toys. My kids LOVE Grandpa's toys.

They knew about his ATV from previous visits. The last time we had been out to Colorado, Marshall hadn't had the courage to ride on it with Grandpa. (I know, I know...big surprise there!) Shaylen hasn't let him forget it either. Before we even got to Colorado, Shaylen was pressuring Marshall (shall I say "daring"?) to get on the ATV with Grandpa. So he planned on doing it. I love positive peer pressure. :)  

After getting home from the pool & taking showers, the kids went outside to play. Grandpa pulled out his toys. Notice I said "toys." Plural. His ATV is one, but his newest, OLD toy is his Cadillac. Boy is it a beauty! Marshall and Shaylen LOVED it. They marvelled at the size of that thing! So did I, and I enjoyed snapping up a few pictures of it. Grandpa gave rides and I got pictures of that too.

Marshall did get on & ride the ATV, and was thrilled with it! Shaylen loved this form of blow-drying her hair. I think she could get used to that.

Saturday's Swim

Saturday dawned and Dad & Cathy were revelling in the thought that there were four grandkids in the house. Cathy was planning on making burritos to accommodate her Mexican-food deprived daughter & Grandpa was planning on taking the kids swimming. The spoiling was continuing.
Marshall & Shaylen had been hoping for a trip to the recreation center. When we would ask them, "What do you want to do more than anything while we are in Colorado," they would always respond, "Go swimming at the rec center!" My hope was Mexican food. I guess our wish was their command.

Dillon, Colton, Marshall & Shaylen had a blast hanging out with grandpa in the pool. They were fast friends...again! They brought toys to toss around, play "Monkey in the Middle," and dive for. The twins had a blast showing Grandpa their swimming skills, loved going down the slide, and enjoyed a relaxing trip down the lazy river. I snapped up pictures left and right because I knew I had the blog to update (sorry, Marie & Grandma Rutledge!), Facebook pictures to post (which I have not done yet), and a photo book to assemble.

I'm not sure how long we were at the pool, but I'd be willing to bet it wasn't long enough for the kids. What a fun time for them!