Branson

This past week we went to Branson. We had been suckered into one of those telemarketer pitches and had to endure a time share sales pitch but it was definitely worth it, because:

1. We got a pretty good rate on a motel.

2. We recieved some discounted Silver Dollar City tickets.

3. We also got a little bit of gas money thrown into the deal.

4. Best of all, they won't call us again!!!!

We left Monday night because I had an early appointment with the perinatalogist in Wichita on Tuesday, which went very well. Thanks to Heather, who watched our kids in her hotel room in Wichita (She even took them swimming!!!! Brave girl!!!!). The doctor said that everything looked pretty good and I wouldn't need to see her again as long as everything continues to look good in my monthly ultrasounds!!!! YAY!!! That was a big relief! Then we headed on to Branson that afternoon sprinkled with a few pit stops, including one to Lambert's (Home of the Throwed Rolls), where we stuffed ourselves silly with rolls and good home cooking.

We met up with Kaleb's sister Melinda and her family in Branson Wednesday night. They had brought their five younger boys, ranging in age from 22? to 8. They left the 24 year old at home because he had to work (and he's married). The next day we went to the time share spiel and then on to a half day at Silver Dollar City. For those who don't know, Silver Dollar City is an old west/hillbilly theme park outside of Branson. It has rides, lots of craftspeople (like candymakers, basketweavers, glassblowers, blacksmiths), and shows.

This is after they got off their first ride, on which they got drenched. Lucy and I waited for them at the end on most of the rides, since I couldn't ride and Lucy was too little.

Melinda and family on the "Lost River".

Abe trying to get a closer look at the sprayground. He got a little too close!!! It was very hot and humid!!!

We went back again on Thursday (we got two day tickets) when it was just as hot and humid. Luckily, it's all in a wooded area so there was lots of shade. Although Lucy and I spent most of the two days trying to stay cool.

The picture above is taken at "Grandfather's Mansion" which is like a funhouse. This room was slanted so it was really hard to stand up "straight".

Abe, Cy, and Lucy "posing"with their cousins.

Cy and Lucy in shackles. Lucy had a lot of "big brothers" this trip. She was the only girl out of all the kids.
Friday morning we went to the Branson Landing which is basically a huge stripmall on one of the arms of Lake Taneycomo.

All in all it was a fun trip. Cy even rode a few of the smaller rollercoasters, conquering his fears!!! Abe rode the intense rollercoasters, just confirming what a daredevil he is. Lucy and I risked it on the teacups, and Kaleb rode a little bit of everything. Just spending time with family, both extended and immediate, was the best part, though!!!