I hope your Memorial Day weekend was great! Our family had a wonderful break from the day to day life. In fact, we established new memories that will last a lifetime. To give you an idea, my husband, son and daughter left Florida Thursday afternoon and drove to the mountains of North Carolina. After settling in, we discussed the weekend plan - which was packed full! Friday morning, we woke up early and went to Chimney Rock State Park. We climbed to the top of the mountain - all but my son - who is afraid of heights and enjoyed the beautiful vista. We then went to the waterfalls in the park and marvelled over the splendor of nature. After lunch, we hiked several other trails and after a yummy dinner, fell into bed around 9 pm. I personally was exhausted but in a very good way.

Day 2 of our trip started in Bryson City NC on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad. We sat in an outdoor car and watched the beauty of the area as we passed through. At the end of this trip, we arrived at the Nantahala Outdoor Center and proceeded to take a two hour rafting ride. It was a blast! The water moved slower than my son and I expected but none the less it was so much fun!

Day 3 we went to my brother's farm in SC and took long walks along the creek, went four wheeler riding for hours and fished in his pond. My daughter was enamored with the john boat and electric motor and Grandpa patiently went for many circles around the lake with her!

I guess the point of my blog is when we sat down to dinner the last night, I observed everyone talking not only about our current trip and experiences but of all of the trips and experiences we have had together. Everyone in the family, including my parents, brothers, sisters all talked about the times we have shared with one another.

No one focused on the stuff we did or didn't have, the personality differences or health issues, the main topic of discussion was about the trips we have taken and the ones we plan to do in the future. Seeing my parents in their 70's and my pre teen children laughing and sharing these times are the memories I want to hold on to forever! Hope you have a wonderful summer with your family!