This is the first time I've gotten on my actual computer in over two weeks, so figured I'd spend a few moments to post an update on our traveling, especially for those not on Facebook or following our travel journal.
We moved out of the house on the 30th. We still had almost a week before we left, so the kids and I stayed with our friends for a few days each. So thankful.
Bryce's last day of school before our trip.
Makenley's last day of preschool before our trip.
We left Gardnerville around midnight of the 6th. We arrived in Salt Lake City early that afternoon. Did some sight seeing, got some lunch, and checked into the hotel. Later, we had dinner with our friend, Liz. Liz was a grandmother on the SIDS support group that I've belonged to since Arianna died, and we hadn't had the opportunity to meet in person--such a great feeling being able to give her a hug.
The following morning, the kids swam for a bit. We then went and met with another friend, Melissa, and her family. We originally met Melissa and her family there in Salt Lake, 10 years ago, while at the Ronald McDonald House. Melissa has been like family, and these moments are cherished.
We then left the Salt Lake area, and headed towards Arches National Park. We got there kind of late, so found a camp sight, and camped out under the stars, just outside the park. The following morning we hiked to Delicate Arch, and explored the park for a bit.
After Arches, we headed for Colorado, where Ken's brother and his family live. We stayed there for two nights. It was great seeing them, and a nice, laid back break. I also met with another friend, Tami, also a mom from the SIDS support group. It was a quick visit, but super sweet.
Sunday, we left Colorado, and headed for Mount Rushmore. 3 states in one day, and we made it! We found a beautiful camp ground just down the street from Mount Rushmore. There were deer and wild turkeys at the site when we pulled in. The kids rock hunted, and ran around while Ken and I quickly set the tent up. We finished in time to head to the monument for the lighting ceremony. The rain held off till just after the ceremony, and it poured the rest of the night, with an incredible lightning storm. This am, we headed back to the monument.
We then headed for Sioux Falls, and met with a friend, Kristina, another mom from the SIDS support group, for desert. While I hate the common thread between us all, I am truly thankful for the wonderful relationships that have been created through our losses.
This coming weekend will be spent in Danbury, Wisconsin, at a weekend long family retreat.
It will probably be next week before I get a chance to update here....so for now, here's our trip in a nutshell. So far, all is going well, and we are making some fantastic memories with the kids. They are excellent little travelers. Thank you all for the continued thoughts, prayers, well wishes and support. I have found myself reading your messages of encouragement and prayers in the moments where I'm feeling emotionally overwhelmed or physically exhausted, and they have truly been helpful. We are thankful for all of you. Much love! And for those who are on the path of this trip, we'll see you when we get there!
