Eden

   My family trip to Eden was something we've been looking forward to for a long time. Unfortunately, a few days before our trip Lucy got Hand Foot and Mouth Disease. We were heartbroken to not have Emily, Tyson and Lucy with us. It truly was the worst timing. Thankfully it was a mild case so she cleared up quickly. We sure love them. Kids always keep you on a roller coaster it seems. 

  We got to the VRBO on Thursday afternoon and it was amazing! The grounds were huge and there were trails that went through some woods on the far end. There was a play area, hot tub and plenty of space for lawn games. Inside the home was just as impressive with seven bedrooms, a screened deck dining area, two family rooms, a beautiful kitchen and a loft area for the kids. All five of them slept together and it was a party. 

We played lots of fun lawn games like bocce ball, kube, cornhole and connect 4. 

Nate tried his hand at fishing in the river behind the woods. 

We hardly saw the older three all day. It was so fun to watch them run around with their walkie talkies exploring and playing. I remember the fun I had with my cousins on camping trips and I love to see my kids making fun memories too. 

We had so much fun making huge bubbles! I think the adults liked it more than the kids.

Nate and Kiana put together an epic battle of wits and strength. We were divided into three teams and were given three tasks. The team with the most points at the end won. The first task was to reach your hand in the box while blind folded and guess what was in it. Team Earthy Worms dominated. I guessed linguini pasta!

Next up was the taste testing. There were a few rounds; sports drinks, flavored water, juices and sprite type drinks. It was harder than I thought! 

Next was seeing how long you could keep the paper towel in the rectangle tape by blowing on it. 

Kiana wrapped a whole bunch of candy and prizes in different layers of Saran Wrap. Using only oven mitts, we would try and unwrap it until the person next to you rolled doubles with a pair of dice. We ended up with a water bottle, candy and a Coldstone gift card! Not bad!

Saturday morning we went to the reservoir. Nate and Brayden left at 8 am to find us a spot. It was pretty cutthroat as people weren't afraid to move stuff or confront Nate about saving too big a space. I felt bad he had to deal with that on his birthday! But everyone else made it and we had a lot of fun. There was just a little beach but it was perfect for the kids. Jace loved the water! All he wanted to do was be out in it. We have a little water baby. We all enjoyed taking the kayak and paddle board out on the water.

Happy 30th to Nate! Welcome to the club!

Cam and Mary made the most amazing quesadillas I've ever had. 

There were tons of books in the children's loft much to Greyson and Lydia's delight.

Jace LOVES this ball Grandma gave him for his birthday.

Mary outdid herself with this cake. It was incredible! Chocolate cake with peanut butter buttercream. YUM.

   After three fun-filled days, it was sadly time to head home. I love my family so much and am so grateful for each one of them and the uniqueness and talents they bring. We're not complete without any of them. Until next year!