We had a lovely fourth of July. First off, we got to let the kids sleep in. :) We spent the morning relaxing in the hotel room, reorganizing our luggage and cleaning out the van.
Dorothy ended up falling asleep and she got her first real nap (in her bed, instead of in her car seat) in a week.
During that time, I took Gen, Viv and Titus to Grandpa's Cheesebarn- a local Ashland cheese, meat and gift shop. We had fun sampling special cheeses and fudge. We saw an Amish man with a horse drawn carriage go by. The kids were amazed!
Then we went back to the hotel for a quick lunch. You can see in a picture below my "kitchen" and "dining room" in Ashland. Nearly drove me crazy serving food in our hotel room! Thankfully, it didn't happen too often.
We had a 2pm gathering planned at Don and Sue Shafer's family farm and we would have been on time (for the first time this trip), except I misnavigated and we couldn't get off the wrong road! Oh well, we eventually made it.
The kids had a blast learning about all the farm equipment and going on a hay ride. Don helped the four oldest drive the tractor! They LOVED that. Titus was also able to drive a golf cart. "Best day ever!" he proclaimed.
Ross and I enjoyed meeting some of Phil and Geneva's dearest friends. Sue first met Geneva when they were in kindergarten in Ashland!
Finally, we had dinner at Uncle Stan and Aunt Judi's home in Ashland. Uncle Stan is Phil's younger brother. They were close in age and had similar gentle natures. Uncle Stan was diagnosed with a brain tumor several years ago. He has slowly been declining.
It was so good to see him and to be able to speak with him for a few minutes. To thank him for his service to our family and to remind him of the promises of Christ. Stan is a strong believer and will be with Jesus soon!
It was also good to visit with Aunt Judi- she has been so faithfully caring for Stan. To give her a hug was something I had been longing to do.
Ross was able to reconnect with some of his cousins and Caleb really hit it off with a second cousin (or cousin once removed?) named Sebastian.
Overall, a lovely day spent with family and friends! And only a little bit humid. 🙂
Looks like a pretty wonderful day! Can't wait to hear about the whole 🚜 experience, both in Ohio and Iowa. Makes me homesick for the midwest.
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