Friday, July 2, 2010

Part I of our "Stay-cation".... Jeff's brother and family visit from California

We were thrilled to have Jeff's brother, David McQueary, his wife, Heather, and their two girls, Sydney and Emily visit us from Ukiah, California last week! (We missed you cousin Christopher!) It was long overdue for these little kids to get together and they instantly bonded as cousins and friends. Sydney and Emily are in between Rachel and Daniel in age, perfect playmates. And Ben had the role of big brother to 4 rather than just 2. We planned a week of staying close to home, letting Jeff's family get a taste of where we live, and just being together. It was a wonderful week!


Interesting... there are no fireflies in California.
The girls loved running around our lawn at nightfall and catching them in their hands.
I am so happy they had this experience which we take for granted.


Took the kids to see Toy Story 3 in 3-D.


We spent a majority of the week at the pool, the kids has a blast and
the mom's had time to relax and catch up.


The Dads and Benjamin went to the Thunder Valley NHRA drag races
for their Father's Day fun!


Monday we rented a boat and took a cruise out on the South Holston lake. We had gorgeous weather though it was a bit hotter than usual. The girls lasted 'till lunch then Heather and I took them to the pool. The guys stayed out longer and did a little swimming and diving. They had tons of fun, the lake water was perfect.


Tuesday morning we had tickets to see Pinocchio at the Barter Stage II.
As usual, it was a fantastic production.


Daniel with Pinocchio



Sydney with the Turquoise Fairy (Tinkerbell)

Wednesday we biked the Creeper Trail for 9 miles. I was worried how that would go with 5 kids, but I could not have been more proud of all of them. Everyone had a blast. Of course, we took the downhill ride and had the Abingdon bike shop pick us up and bring us back.

Water balloons in the front yard.


Thursday we were invited over to our friend's, Roger and Laura Poe's farm for a cookout. The weather wasn't too cooperative but we still had a pleasant evening.


Earlier Thursday we went to Kil'n Time to paint pottery. Fun and different, and air conditioned!


Friday we took the crowd and headed over to the Bristol Caverns.
Very different from California.


Stopped by the Bristol Motor Speedway. Can't miss this on a visit to Bristol TN/VA!


All in all, the week went by way to fast and their visit ended too soon! It was hard to see them go. We have lots of fun memories and many more to look forward to.

We love y'all!



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