We are having a FABULOUS time!! Last week the youngin's and I took a day-trip down to Glendive, MT and picnicked in Makoshika State Park. The weather was perfect, the air was crisp and clean, the scenery breathtaking, and the wildlife was abundant. (I didn't take the above photo - but we did get to see a very similar view.)
While up here we are also thoroughly enjoying small town living. The town we are in is small enough for us to ride our bikes everywhere. It also has sidewalks down EVERY street making biking a very safe mode of transportation for OG and EJ. There are 7 playground parks within 1 mile of our townhouse and we've really enjoyed the summer reading program at the local library. The members of the church we are attending are just as friendly and outgoing as those back home.
The 4th of July was especially fun for our family. Since we live in an area with a very high population, we've never enjoyed the local parades - it's just too crowded and unfortunately crime is high at events like that - not to mention the highway robbery of parking fees, etc. However, this year, vacationing in a very small town afforded us the opportunity to enjoy the local parade and FREE cook-out in the downtown park - there was even live gospel music to entertain everyone. We all had a super duper good time.
I can not express how much I enjoy small town and rural life. Two weeks ago a local citizen took an add out in the classified section of the newspaper looking for the owner of a professional grade digital camera. The camera was found in the picnic area near the local river and this person wanted to return it to its rightful owner. It's been six weeks since we left home and the only crime report on the local news station was regarding the final sentencing of a murderer (two counties away) from sometime last year, and 5 local teens were caught and arrested for breaking into three or four vehicles. All other local news revolves around community happenings, agricultural reports and weather. I do not find myself stressed out after overhearing the local news, like I do when I'm at home.
Now, I'd like to spotlight an addition to the "Sites of Interest" links in my sidebar. My very dear and very close friend Mrs. A has decided to try blogging. If you'd like to check her site out, Charmin's Thoughts", I'm sure she'd love a visit. I am looking forward to regular doses of her sense of humor and updates on her beautiful family.
Well, I just wanted to check in (in case anyone thought I'd completely forgot about my blog world buddies) and let you all know we are doing well, we are happy and we are enjoying our summer break.
Wishing you were here with us .... Mrs. B