Mountains

While John's mom was visiting we headed to the mountains of NC for a little trip. Our first stop was in Ashe County. We went to the Ashe County cheese store and that place was great. Tons of cheeses everywhere. Loved it.




We went to some of our favorite places...the Mast General Store, downtown Boone, and the Red Onion for dinner.


Then we took the drive up to Grandfather Mountain. We walked across the cool suspended bridge. And stood among the clouds. It was a great little trip filled with exciting new sights.

All photos courtesy of Lily's iPod Touch and John's iPhone---waiting for my new camera to delivered.

Walking across the bridge

Shelly, Bestemor, and Lily

On the mountaintop---it was chilly

Jumping for joy at Grandfather Mountain

John and his mom

Oh, and on our way out of the house I decided to turn on my cell phone just to see if anything had changed with it. And, guess what???? It started working! I couldn't believe that a week later the phone was operating. So thankful.

Happy Birthday, Bestemor

John's mom, Sylvia, is celebrating a birthday today. We were lucky enough to enjoy an ice cream cake with her when she was here visiting last weekend. Happy Birthday, Bestemor!!!!!!!!!

Company

John's sister, brother-in-law, nephew, and mother came for a visit this weekend. We had a really nice time with them. We went to the park and the science museum, played cards, swam in the pool, and attended a soccer game. The girls loved having Kaden (their cousin) here. A crazy looking anteater at the zoo!

And this event marks the official end to the summer. Good bye Summer and hello Fall with your cooler temperatures and beautiful rich colors.

Bestemor and Pool Fun

John's mom was here for a few days this past week and we really enjoyed seeing her.
After the never-ending rain, the family was able to finally get into the pool on Saturday before she left.
They had a good time floating around together.

Yesterday afternoon, the 4th annual end-of-the-year pool party was held at the Rizza's house.

The kids had a great time and the moms did, too.

Lots of food, fun, drinks, and friends. All of this can mean only one thing...school is almost out...just 4 1/2 days until the end.

Friday here we come!!!

Tuesday Thoughts

1. Why does it take an insurance company so long to resolve an accident? We are going on over 5 months since the golf cart incident and my parents are going on a year and a half since their car accident and still no resolution.

2. Spring seems to be on its way. I heard birds chirping yesterday.

3. Think I'll DVR American Idol tonight so that I can skip through all of the nonsense and hit the singing portion.

4. Looking forward to watching our DVRed show of Jon & Kate Plus 8...one of my very favorite tv shows.

5. I got started on little items for the girls's Easter baskets today.

6. Tonight is going to be sandwich night for dinner. Think I might do this each week...easy, cheap and plenty of food.

7. We had some of the fish that John caught while in VB and we used this mix to make fish cakes...oh so delicious.

8. I had a Greek quiche for lunch and it was awesome. It contained spinach, feta, onions, and mushrooms. I need to make this at home.

9. A year ago right now, I was preparing for our trip to Disney World. I can honestly say that we had a wonderful time as a family, but I don't need to head back to the house of mouse any time soon (oh, and the girls feel the same way).

10. I'm transferring my photos to John's little handy flash drive. So easy!!!

11. I adore my iPod. I love to listen to Bob & Sheri podcasts.

12. I have been eating these and they are quite yummy.

And here's a photo of Shelly and Bestemor (Sylvia...my mother-in-law):