Before I get into the roundup, I want to wish everyone in the U.S. a Happy Memorial Day. As we celebrate, it’s also an opportunity to take a moment to honor the memory of those who gave their lives for our country, and all those who serve and served. A big Thank You!
Now for the weekend!
Friday was awesome! We headed out to Calico Ghost Town to our son’s campsite. They go with two other families they’ve camped with for a long time. They were all nice and fun folks. Then we headed out on the offroad vehicles. Our son and his wife have a Can AM four seater. He retrofitted it with better safety gear, and provided us with helmets and instructions. He and his wife (and their whole crew) take safety seriously. Having now met their friends and seen first hand how they handle things, I feel even more confident they do a great job of looking out for one another.
That said, one of my smiles was when my son strapped me into the harness the first time and has his wife adjust my helmet to make sure it was fastened correctly. After that time, I was “allowed” to do it on my own, but one of them checked my work when I did it, LOLOL! I’m not actually laughing at them, I’m laughing because once it was me strapping Middle into his car seats, and later his helmets and and safety gear. Life comes full circle but it’s all good. Then off we went through the desert on what I believe is called Phillips Loop, which could be called a trail if one is being generous. It was awesome, but I’ll say this, there’s not a lot of people I would trust to drive these roads and somewhat treacherous conditions. Middle son and his wife co-piloting are at the top of my list. While he’s driving, she is watching and they are both in constant communication with the other two vehicles. I also know my son takes care of his vehicles and equipment. Wizard and I got to just be passengers without any worries 
It didn’t take too long to get to the Bismarck Mine and Kramer Arch. Here’s Wizard and me at the arch:
Then Daughter-In-Law, myself and three of the kids went into one of the two mines. I didn’t get pictures because I left my phone in my jacket in the vehicle. But everyone else had their phones, so I wasn’t concerned. I did worry I’d have to fight my claustrophobia, but it didn’t bother me. Partly, I think, because my daughter -in-law has been there many times, and I fully trust her. It was super interesting to see the mine.
After that we headed back to camp, ate lunch then headed into the ghost town to check out the Calico mine, the train ride, and some shops. We ended up in the small patio bar, where Wizard and I sadly didn’t drink anything fun. We would have loved to have a beer (or wine in my case), but we were driving home later. At one point, daughter in law and I went to the dog store — a cool shop that sells fun things for dogs including cake mixes! — and I came back to find Wizard and Middle putting each other in the town jail and taking pictures…Boys! They crack me up.
There are a bunch of little stories but I’ve rambled about it enough. We just had a good day “away” from the real life responsibilities and it was just what we needed.
Saturday we picked up Maggie after lunch and someone had partied too hard on their Spa Weekend. She can’t hold her eyes open!
She won’t tell us what she did all weekend, but it must have been fun! For the record, she’s always happy to see us but displays no anxiety or stress when she comes home. She’s goes right back to her routine, eats well and seems happy.
Today we’re having Biker Witch and her Biker Hubby over for dinner. We are looking forward to seeing them!
So how was your weekend?
May 29th, 2023 at 11:53 am · Link
What an absolutely fun time! Your kids are a tribute to your and Wiz’s parenting skills. So lgad Maggie has mellowed like fine wine and doesn’t mind when Mom and Dad “abandon” her for some “adult time.”
LG and Uncle Fix-It replaced the water pump in Only’s Mustang Saturday morning. That afternoon, the Kids all went to “Hamilton.” Originally, only Only and Baseball Boy were going but then Stormy pitched a fit. He’s been known to sing along with the soundtrack and was totally put out that his parents weren’t taking him. Sunday, the three of them attended the Savannah Banannas exhibition game. They had a blast and Only texted me videos. Not quite as good as being there but fun and I didn’t have to people, which is a win!
As for me? Softball. Super regionals this weekend and all the games were televised. OSU swept Oregon in 2 games. OU swept Clemson, though the 2nd game went to extra innings and it took some major heroics on OU’s part to pull out the win. World Series starts Thursday.
It’s raining today–which we still desperately need, so we’re being lazy, staying in and not doing much of anything. I dealt with some tech issues this morning–fixed now–and my brain imploded a little.
Another pot of coffee and I might be fully recuperated. Or not. It’s a good day to relax, reflect, and remember that freedom always comes with a price.
Have a great week, all!
May 29th, 2023 at 2:49 pm · Link
I hope you and Wizard have had a nice Memorial Day.
It’s been beautiful weather here so the parades have all gone on without any problems.
The photo of you and Wizard is so pretty. You had great weather and the location is just lovely. I’m glad you all had a nice time.
It’s too cute how you can relate your son making sure you’re safe and secure just like you did for him when he was little. How our lives change.]
I bet you’re right about the claustrophobia. Knowing you have someone you can really trust would set anyone more at ease.
Okay, sorry about no fun drinks. You were being safe. The dog store – OMG! I don’t have a dog but I would have fun in there. Cake mixes for the pups – yes!
As for Maggie – What happens at doggie camp, stays at doggie camp 🤣🤣🤣. She sure was tired out. Must have had a blast.
Yesterday we went to C&C’s for the cookout. Finally got to meet C’s family. They were all there and I really liked all of them. Hubs struggled and couldn’t answer questions so I did it for him. I think he had a good time anyway.
It’s another beautiful day here so I think it’s corn, slaw and ribs tonight.
Have a wonderful afternoon!
May 30th, 2023 at 1:35 pm · Link
Silver, thanks! Maggie said thanks too! She’s sure that’s a compliment to her, LOL! In Maggie’s world, everyone loves her
Wow Only and her crew had a long day! Stormy is such a well rounded kid! I love that he wanted to go see the musical. Also glad there were no issues with replacing the water pump.
Yay for the softball wins! Even better when they are a hard fought battle.
Ugh on the tech issues. I’m struggling with non-tech-but-I-can-remember-how-to-do-it-and-don’t-want-to issues
Hope yours are all resolved!
I’m a day late in answering, to hope your Tuesday is going well!
May 30th, 2023 at 1:44 pm · Link
Viki, thanks on all! We had a fun day with Biker Witch and Biker Hubby yesterday! Its always nice to get together.
Isn’t it weird when our kids are suddenly the adults and begin caretaking? But truthfully Middle and his wife are experienced in all this and we’re not, so we listen to them.
The dog store was really cute! If I go again, I’ll buy more stuff just to support the shop. I just wasn’t prepared for it this time, but now that I know its there, I’m all in. I love creative small businesses.
Maggie agrees with you about doggie camp
She obviously had fun so it’s all good.
That’s wonderful that you liked her family! It’s a huge bonus and makes all the future events so much more enjoyable. And it makes it easier on the couple to not have to worry about mixing families. I’m also glad you had a good time and that you think hubs did. I know it’s harder for him, but it sounds like he’s coping as well as possible from all your help.
Your dinner sounded so delicious! I love homemade coleslaw (without mayo, LOL), plus it’s a great with ribs.
I hope you’re having a good week so far!