Louisville, KY

This past Thursday Eric and I headed south for a 4day, kid free vacation. Thanks to my parents and Eric's mom for watching the girls so we could have some time away.

Our 1st stop was lunch in Indianapolis, IN at the always wonderful Cheesecake Factory. After stuffing ourselves with a great lunch, and of course some AMAZING cheesecake, we hit the road for our second destination....MATS 2010.


We arrived in Louisville, KY early afternoon after traveling most of the day in rain. The rain cleared just as we arrived at the Mid American Truck Show (MATS) We checked out some very cool custom semi trucks and trailers, then headed inside the convention center to walk around and check out some merchandise, displays and of course people watch.

After a few hours in Louisville, it was back in the car for a few hours south to arrive in Nashville, TN. We arrived early evening and headed downtown in search of a hotel. A lot of the bigger hotels were already booked, but we ended up getting an awesome rate at the Best Western, along with a few other 'hook-ups' for some local bars and restaurants.

Once were were checked in and settled, we waisted no time in finding a local hangout, Picks Nashville in Music City where they have live music every night and great locals that hangout there. Day one of a great vacation.

1st Born

My 1st born loves to help me with everything, but most of all when it involves baking... with chocolate.

The Next Day

After a rough night Saturday, one child decided he didn't want to sleep, or let anyone else. We got ready and headed down to enjoy a large buffet breakfast. It was nice having everything prepared for you, and not having to clean up, now that's my kind of vacation.

Jackie and Eric getting cozy

After breakfast the hotel had some of their 12 week old husky puppies in the lobby. These puppies would be trained to be their sled dogs in the near future. Abby loved them, as long as they kept their distance.
Checking out the puppies

We made our way back to our room to pack up ALL the stuff. I can't believe how much you have to pack when you bring little kids on vacation. After is was loaded in the car, we went back to enjoy the water park for a few hours before heading home.

My mom (showing off her just back from a cruise tan) and Jackie with Megan is Chase in the kiddie pool.

Double JJ Resort

This past weekend, my whole family (minus my BIL Mike due to the flu) stayed and played at the Double JJ Resort in Rothbury, MI.

We headed up Saturday afternoon, checked into our suite and then hit the indoor water park. Within minutes, we were all headed down the lazy river. After our fill of water for the day, we headed back to our room for some dinner, put the kids to bed then enjoyed some adult R & R including drinks, games and more great snacks.

Quality Family Time

Free Sitter

My nephew Eli came over this morning to play with the girls for a while. After a quick trim on his hair it was time to burn off some energy!!

Oops, at least it was a soft landing.

WaWaWaWater

Abby's love for water means she spends a lot of time hanging out in the kitchen sink. She could literally spend hours just sitting there and playing with the soap and a few small bowls.

I think Megan is following in her footsteps.

Live Event

Last week Thursday Eric and I, along with a few friends, attended the Dave Ramsey live event held at the Van Andel Arena.

This was my 3rd time seeing him live, and Eric's 5th time. If you've never seen him in person, I HIGHLY recommend you do. This year we were told that he changed the program, and since he will not be back to Grand Rapids until 2012, we decided to check it out...it was the same as the prior years.

Despite the mild disappointment with the event, Eric and I will continue to be big fans. We have been 'Dave Ramsey followers' for over 7th years. Eric has coordinated about a half dozen classes that are held at church, and will hopefully continue them for many years to come.

I am also happy to report that he is the nerd, and I am the free spirit!

Day Off

Eric could not have picked a nicer day to have off from work. The sun is shinning making it a great day to be outside and enjoy this warm (er) weather. After a morning of running errands, we decided to head home for a quick lunch and then head outside before nap time. Taking a walk to the Post Office to get our mail. Me and Abby taking the snow route to ensure a very tired 2yr old. Then there is this little girl, all bundled up, just along for the ride. Eric and Abby putting the finishing touches on their snowman.