Up the Interstate

Welcome to Summer! The weather is hotter and so are the beach combers. It is vacation time for many of us and the world is our oyster, so to speak. I usually take my family vacation in July when the family reunion happens in Michigan. It is really beautiful up there. We stay at a wonderful place called Wood and Waters Camp Ground near Newaygo. If you are ever up in that area, it is an incredible place to simply relax. We stayed in a room (they have six of them, I believe) and an amazing campground that stretches for acres. they welcome RV's, as well. Inside the main building is a store, ice cream parlor and eatery along with a swimming pool and hot tub that any of the campers are free to use. Man, I miss that hot tub. :)

Our view at Wood and Waters

Another place I enjoyed going to was Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro, Arkansas. We stayed at the Shamrock and toured the town. It was simple and unbelievably friendly. Yes, I went hunting for diamonds in the field that they kept plowed to keep the hunting fresh. You could buy tools for the dig there in the tool shop or bring your own. We found quite a bit of raw cat's eye. I had never seen any as large as these were! I still haven't gone through all of the rocks and sand I dug up but the adventure was good enough for me. I loved it!

Of course, I cannot forget our time in Branson, Missouri. We were trying to pinch pennies ('cause I'm super-mom, you know) so I got us into a lower priced hotel, which at the time was the Greenbriar, and decided to take our chances. We were shocked at the awesome room we got! The service there was terrific and the people were so nice. The price fooled us, I must admit. These places were just gracious. Turned out to be right on the Strip. To one side of us was a water park and across the street was a go-cart ramp that looked more like a roller coaster. I could see zip-lines behind us and there were so many attractions up and down the street (Strip) that we had a time trying to see them all. I would advice you to make sure to see the singing group, Pierce Arrow. They put on such a show! There was comedy, beautiful harmony and one of the singers, and owner of the club, that holds the world record for the deepest voice. It didn't hurt that these guys were super hot, too. ;)

I am planning on a trip up the east coast soon. I want to visit the battle fields and see re-enactments of the Civil War battles. I also want to visit the different docks that my ancestors landed on. I think it will give me a better connection to them. I have been working on my family tree and learning more about my roots. I believe that this trip will teach me more than a few tid-bits that I wouldn't find online.

Wherever you decide to go this summer, if anywhere, enjoy your family. Our days on Earth are few in comparison to how many we need to show our love to one another. I would love to hear about your vacation memories. Sharing them, as I just did, helps to bring us back to those amazing times. Perhaps the baby took her first steps in the hotel, or hubby littered the floor and bed with rose pedals. Did you spend your vacation at home, tanning in the back yard while the b-b-q pit served up steaks and shish-kabobs? Treasure these memories! Share with us in the comments below. Include pictures if you can.

Have a great Summer and hug your family. Hugs are awesome. :D