Mid-America Science Museum

 In Hot Springs, we visited this Science Museum for FREE!  I love free.  :)  We have a national museum pass through Evansville Museum, in Evansville, Indiana.  (It was only $50 for our whole family of 7 to visit over 400 History, Science, and Children's Museums all over the nation!)

I appreciate science museums, because, there is something for everyone, of all ages.

Parker was trying his best to lift this contraption that controlled an air compressor.  :)

We saw how solar energy works.....

And kinetic energy......

They felt the power of hurricane force winds.....

yes, she is my dramatic one...... :)

Tanner showed his skills operating 'Zeus' the deep sea robot that picks up buried treasure 1500 feet below the surface!  (He has a natural- mechanically -operating- kind of coordination) HA!

Here, Zach was pretending to be the 'Drill Sargent' while Emily and Hannah were using a pulley system to lift their own weight.

There were so many creative inventions through out the museum!

Zach is constructing a building that can withstand an earthquake.

At the museum, there was a 'Shipwreck' display.

Emily's best pirate look.......yeah, I think it looks a little scary.......

Now, this was the favorite of the day!  It is a 'cave' playground that is only 36 inches tall!  You had to crawl or slide through the entire thing!  IN THE DARK!!  You definitely can NOT enter this if you get claustrophobic!
We ALL, yes, even me, went through and it was exciting!  Kind of one of those scary-fun things to do! :)

We spent a total of 4 1/2 hours at the museum!  It truly felt like a couple of hours, though.  Time flies when you're having FUN!


Blessings,
Steph

Hot Springs National Park

What can I say?  Hot Springs, AR., is HOT in July!  It was 100 degrees outside when we visited.
What I find interesting about this place, is that, it is the focal point of downtown Hot Springs.  In 1915, Bathhouse Row was a bustling, happening place in America.  People from all over the world came here for the 'healing' power of the springs.   Isn't it sad how we can put SO much confidence in things, rather than the God who created them? :)

On Bathhouse Row, there are 8 main bath houses that have been rebuilt from fires in the past, and preserved as working bath houses or museums and gift shops.

The National Park headquarters was found inside Fordyce House, so we took a tour through the 3 story building.  There were huge tubs, dressing rooms, cooling rooms, massage parlors, steaming boxes and more.

I enjoyed the architecture found along each building, but I would have enjoyed it more if it was cooler outside! HA!
 Part of the Jr. Ranger requirements, were to find the Noble Fountain.  We searched and walked and searched and walked and complained and whined and complained some more  until we realized that we were NOT going to find it!   As much as I wanted to conquer the fountain, I did not want my kids to pass out or have a heat stroke!  So, we strolled along the Bathhouse Row locating specific architectural elements. :)

Did you know that the spring water is consistently 143 degrees- year 'round!?

This year, my older boys will be completing specific history and science curriculum for their school work, and are not 'required' to do the Jr. Ranger books.  BUT, they agreed to help the little ones with their books. :)  As a mom, it was sweet to see Zach helping Emily and Tanner reading to Parker. :)  Hannah finished hers with very little help from me.  (she is getting so big.....too fast)

Good job Jr. Rangers!  Today's history and science lessons on architecture, expansion, commerce, geology and the water cycle earned you a new badge for your collection. :)  Love it!

Blessings,
Steph

State #20 Arkansas!!

Good ole' Arkansas, state #20 for the Golden Gang!  It was a fairly pretty drive from Texarkana, and we arrived in Arkansas in the afternoon, with lots of sunshine.  In fact, it is in the 90's - 100 degrees right now.  Feels like a Texas summer alright. HA!


Once we saw the sign for our new state, this is what the kids looked like. :)

Our campsite is really great and right behind Zach is a natural spring fed creek.

The kids could not wait to go rock hopping and explore the surroundings.  Tanner and Zach went in the woods and rock climbing nearby, but I didn't get any pics of them.  Of course, they came back with stories of 'survival' and accomplishments!  Gotta love those boys. :)

Then, onto the bikes!

I like the hills of Arkansas so far.  There are a lot of trees, and it seems so green and country feelin' here. :)

Blessings,
Steph

Texarkana, TX. -Campground Review

Well, we left Livingston and head to Texarkana, TX., safe, sound and feeling much more confident!  We made it to Clear Springs COE Park at night, which is not ideal, but made it just in time before they closed the gates! WHEW!

The COE Parks, (Corps of Engineers) are so well managed, clean and always by a body of water, whether it is a lake, or dam, and offer playgrounds, and hook-ups.

Price- $18/night for water and electric (30 amp) and a dump station

Amenities- lake, swimming beach, playgrounds, clean shower/bath house

The staff was very friendly, and even though we were here for only a day, we could have easily stayed longer if it wasn't so hot!  (30 amps is NOT enough for a 40 ft. home on wheels!)

Blessings,
Steph

Lift Off!!

I am in shock......

It has been 7 months since we have traveled, and now we are full-timing again!  :)

We actually left yesterday, and only made it 45 minutes down the road to Livingston, TX at the Rainbow's End, Escapees' Campground. Ha!  It was honestly, a VERY stressful situation for a while......

Long story short, we thought there was something TERRIBLY wrong with our truck, hitch or toy-hauler or all THREE!  We felt uneasy how it was riding on the road.  Come to find out, thank the Lord, it is normal to bounce a little when you're pulling 19,000 pounds.  yeah.....we're newbies AGAIN. :)

The change from the Class A to a truck/toy-hauler has been quite the transition, so we are learning the ropes and REALLY being stretched.

I am so thankful for growth and change in my life, but to be honest, it has not been easy.  The Lord is breaking down some very strong walls of pride, baggage and other really messy parts of my life.  I am having to face fears, like anyone else, but it seems like the Lord is putting me into 'overdrive' lately.  Thankfully, I have a loving husband that is NOT giving up on me, and is willing to also grow and change.

  It is amazing what a new day can bring. :)

Now, we are on the road again, and excited about the many new places, people and adventures that await!

Blessings,
Steph

Quick Update

Well, the countdown is ON!

 Four more days, and we are closing on the sale of our home!

Six more days, and we are 'hittin' the road!'


Please, please pray for us!  We are SO anxious to start our next adventure on the road, and pray it all goes with out a hitch......no pun intended.....really......  ;)


Blessings,
Steph

Zach's Corner!!

The Navy Base!!

Blessings,
Steph

Rootin' Tootin' Cowboys!

For about 5 years now, Tanner has been involved in an organization, SASS ; Single Action Shooting Society.  His Grandpa and Grandma are VERY involved, and shoot year 'round, but Tanner only shoots in his SPARE time. :)

It is an awesome organization that teaches gun safety, and the correct respect and application involved in shooting pistols, rifles and shotguns.  There are 'stages' at each competition where each applicant is timed, but also scored for accuracy.

The part I love about it, is the fancy dresses and old western outfits that all the shooters show up in!  :)  Seriously, though, it has been a great hobby for my kids to experience alongside their grandparents, and are learning the importance of gun safety/handling.

Each of the shooters have an alias, too:
Grandpa is 'Texas Ghost'
Grandma is 'Lady Ghost'
Tanner is "Kid Ghost'
 and this year Zach joined the posse as 'Deputy Ghost!'

In a couple of years, Hannah will start shootin' as 'Angel Ghost' and Emily is.....get this.....'Not-A-Ghost.'  :)  Parker says he wants to be 'Baby Ghost."  Sounds good to me!

Here are some pics of the boys at their latest shoot.

 That's right.  Real Guns.  Real bullets.  Real chaps.

Safety is TOP  priority at the shoot.  Even though there are several people shooting at any given time, it is very organized and controlled.

Eye protection and ear protection are REQUIRED!  Too cute.  :)

At any age, you too can enjoy competing with some of the best folks in all of Texas!

Blessings,
Steph

Fun at the Lake!

Good ole' Uncle Tray and Aunt Cheryl invited us over to their place in the country last weekend, and we had a bunch of fun. :)

Between jumping on the trampoline, watching the peacocks, playing with kittens, splashing at the sandy beach and tubing on Lake Conroe, it was a FUN-FILLED day!

Here they are, filled with anticipation!!

Is it possible to find a life jacket that REALLY fits?!

Hang on tight, girls!

Whoo Hoo!!  LOVE it!

Tanner loved the challenge Uncle Tray gave him.....go fast......real fast!

Zach enjoyed his turn at NORMAL speed, though.  :)

Uncle Tray, you're awesome!  :)

After our boat ride, we took the kids to a sandy beach, and they ran and swam and ran and swam.....

Parker is getting too big, too fast......  makes me proud and sad, all at the same time......

Thanks so much Uncle Tray and Aunt Cheryl!!  We had a blast!!

Blessings,

Steph

Hannah's Baptism

A couple of years ago, Hannah started seeing her need for a Savior. :)  It has been so sweet to see her desire for Jesus grow and grow, to the point, where she was ready to acknowledge Jesus as her Lord!

We celebrated Memorial Day at Aunt Dorothy's house, and while we were there, we thought it would be a great time to celebrate Hannah's new birth, too. :)

Many family and friends were there to witness her special day, and have fun in the sun.

From races, air-soft wars and water-gun fights......

To dunking contests.....

To trying to dunk Uncle Mike!

Then, the fun turned into a special silence, as Todd started to read scripture to Hannah and the 'witnesses.'

It was our first time to have Todd baptize our new believer,  and it was just precious.

We were all crying and thanking the Lord for such a blessed time as this.

Afterwards, we continued to celebrate with what else, but Angel food cake!!  :)

As a parent, it is the most fervent prayer, that my children will love the Lord, Jesus, with all their heart, soul, mind and strength!
Thank you, Lord, for a precious, answered prayer!


Blessings,
Steph

Exciting News!

Keep Praying!!

Well, the Lord sure has His plans. :)

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord,  "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."  Jeremiah 29:11


The past three weeks have been such a whirl-wind, but oh, so good.  After the rug was swept up from under our feet, and we couldn't continue with our travel adventures, we decided to put our house up for sale.  I just couldn't fathom dealing with renters and again, and all the unknowns that come with that.  Some friends of ours had recently shared their moving experience with us, as well as their AWESOME realtor that sold their home. (thanks Wendy!)  When Todd and I decided that we wanted to try and sell the house, I immediately thought of Wendy's realtor.  It is amazing how the providence of God works in our lives......  Every little detail. :)  In less than a week, she had it on the market, with pictures and 4 showings!  Todd followed her advice and painted a couple of rooms that needed updating, that first week as well. (I can still see the cloud of dust from him moving so fast!)

Praise the Lord!  In TWO weeks, our house has a contract!!!  Our hearts' desire was to sell the home last year, but the market was just too weak.  Now, with everything going on, what seemed to be so disappointing, is now giving us a 'hope and a future!"  What peace and comfort we will have as we travel, knowing that we don't have renters, or a mortgage, or insurance or taxes, or repairs, and on and on......

It is such an awesome reminder for me to trust in the Lord.  He knows and is working all things for my good. :)  All the while, I am growing, and sometimes, that means growing PAINS!

Please continue to pray for this process!  The home inspection is Tuesday, and if all goes well, then we will plan to leave, Lord willing, early July. :)

Blessings,
Steph

Tea Parties, Blueberries & Family

While we are parked in Texas for a while, we have come to a decision.  Ya know, we are just going to make the most of it, right? :)  So, for Mother's Day weekend, we decided to visit my sweet Mema, Dad, and Aunt Myrtle.  The kids were super excited to see their cousins as an added bonus. :)

At 91 years of age, my Mema is STILL being the amazing hostess...... It is extremely difficult for her to allow ANYONE into her kitchen!  HA!  Thankfully, I found opportunities to gracefully SHOVE  my way in there and help out.  :)

They were so excited to have a tea party. :)

Emily, with her mouth STUFFED with cookies!

Hannah, with her 'proper' manners showing brightly. :)

Parker even got in on the action, by using his 'knife' and fork!

Talk about HAPPY!  Doesn't everyone LOVE tea?!

This weekend, we spent a wonderful morning blueberry picking with Todd's mom.
The weather is really starting to warm up here, so we were at the fields around 8:30.

They were HUGE!  So, so good, too!

Fifteen acres filled with blue yumminess. :)

Eat all you want, and pick all you can!

In a couple of hours, we picked about 30 POUNDS!!!  For only $2.00 a pound, too!
Too cool!

It's the little things in life that make it that much sweeter. :)


Blessings,
Steph

Hard Times

"In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps." Proverbs 16:9



As I type this post, my heart is heavy, and I am honestly putting my trust in the Lord.



The past few days, have been some of the hardest.  To put it as clearly as possible.....

Our tenants that are renting our home, with out warning, literally HOURS before we were set to start our next traveling adventure, told us that they did not want to renew their lease.  (heart breaking.....can you hear it??)

To say that it was shocking and disappointing is an understatement.  I am still seeking a cheerful heart and peace right now.

Todd has been amazing to say the least.  We decided that we just want to sell the home, and move on with our lives.  Todd has already found a realtor and getting some painting completed this week.   Don't get me wrong, our tenants have paid their rent and kept the home immaculate.  Praise the Lord for that!  And, they DO have every right not to want to renew the contract.  What is saddening, is they knew we were heading out for the road, and decided till the very last minute to tell us.  Why?  I will never have this answer, but what I DO know, is that I serve a great God.  He knows.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and he will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5


As a family, we are blessed to have Todd's parents' support and encouragement.  We have a safe place to hang out for a while. :)  Lord willing, it is part of His plan to allow us to sell our home......that is what our heart's desire has been all along.


Please pray!  There is power in prayer!


I know that I am just a speck on this Earth and my measly, little problems are NOTHING compared to so many others'.   But, I also know, that I love a Lord that loves me back.  He even knows how many hairs are on my head!  (even the ones falling out or turning gray!)  He knows how all of this will end up, and I will be stronger for it.  My faith is SO weak.  I truly know that.  He is wanting me to grow and love Him all the more!

When you think of my family, please pray for a clear direction.  We would love to travel again.  Right now, we are living in an RV!!!  An RV is supposed to MOVE!!!  :)
 Life has its bumps in the road, no matter what you live in, but what is going on inside ones heart is the telling sign of faith.  The Lord is growing mine, that is for sure!


Blessings,
Steph