It's Over, But It Isn't Over

We arrived in Concord at about 11pm Sunday July 7th.  My dogs were so happy to see us, Lizzie did a lot of whining and Diego gave me a full body hug and would not leave my side.  It was especially sweet when the cat came running in, cave us a cursory look, and walked to the food bowl.  Our pets missed us!
The next day all the kids and I cleaned out our clothes and personal items.  It felt good but kind of sad too.  I took Steffi, Coley, and Ryan to Albemarle where they saw Mocha (who also gave an amazing greeting) and reunited with their mom later that day.  I expected to feel relieved when the kids went with their mom.  I was ready to take a big sigh and fully relax.  Instead, I felt very sad.  As hard as parts of the trip were, I think we bonded more than ever.
Now, Artie sits in the driveway and honestly looks a little pathetic.  As if begging for the next big adventure.  Or, maybe it is me that is begging for the next big adventure.  I loved our amazing vacation, and I loved coming home.  But there is so much more to it than that.  I have a whole new education and respect for RV living.  I definitely didn't win any awards for being super mom, but I did keep a clean kitchen, supplied breakfast, lunch, and some dinners (with John's help), kept up with the laundry, and came home happy.  I cannot wait to see what we do next.  Whatever it is, I'll be ready.

Mesa Verde, on the way back from the dwellings.  

Cleveland

We made it to John's sisters house at about midnight on the third. We were greeted by a herd of jumping and yelling cousins that were so excited we had made it. After a couple of celebratory toasts, we all hit the pillows and the clan slept until almost 10. Happy Fourth of July! I've never been more proud or amazed by this wonderful country.

Just for Rylee

My sweet niece Rylee wanted a picture of the RV. (She is four)  So, here it is Rylee girl!  I love you and kiss your mom for me!  XOXO

Here are some pictures of us in the RV.  I hope to take you on a trip one day!

Love, Uncle Dawn

Steffi's Fabulous Blog Post

Well today we are driving to Cleveland from Yellowstone. Yellowstone was really pretty but they had a lot of bugs and that part made me sad. But we saw elk and moose and it was pretty cool. I also became addicted to huckleberries and I got some huckleberry shorts and I am going to wear then forever. I'm kind of sad that our West vacation is over but I'm ready to be in Cleveland to see my lovelies. Tonight we are staying in Sioux Falls, South Dakota and I was very excited because Chelsea Houska from Teen Mom 2 lives there. I asked Dawn if we could meet her and she said no. But oh well. I hope you enjoyed my fabulous blog post because it was my "assignment" for today. Bye guys

Heading to Ohio!

Well we're heading to Ohio today. We're staying half way through South Dakota today and finishing the journey up tomorrow. You get thankful for the little things when you've been on the road for almost 2 weeks :) Here is a picture of me and mom in Durango Colorado. :) 

Yellowstone Falls

Still trying to play catch up~ here is my beautiful daughter, Heather, at Artists Point in Yellowstone. What an amazing place. I was stunned at how volcanic land can be so beautiful. A person needs a week to truly do this park justice.

Yellostone National Park!

We haven't had any phone or internet service for two days. (You can read that as withdrawals) So we toured Grand Tetons Sunday (pics later) and today is Yellowstone. Most majestic scenery ever.  All children are still with us and both adults claim sanity. (Altho doubts about John continue..)   Elevation here is over 8,000 feet so most of us are suffering slightly. As you parents can imagine, the little boys are oblivious.  Xoxo to all.