we had joy we had fun

yesterday was one of the most perfect days we've had in a long time. the hubs took yesterday and today off--his first vacation days this summer. we'd been trying to think of something to do with the kids that was fun, more than going bowling or to the movies, since we didn't get to go to the beach or out of town this summer.

we drove two hours to the nc mountains to this old western-type "town" that has a steam locomotive, rides, gem mining and petting zoo. the price was about the same as to the local big amusement park, which is something the kids would also love, but we'd never been to this particular place before. the local big amusement park meant waiting at least an hour to ride one run, hot sun, crazy prices for stuff, etc. i thought this other place would be more fun--and i was right.

part of the drive up and back was along the blue ridge parkway, and, while the kids don't necessarily care about the scenery, the hubs and i loved it. christmas tree farms, mountains, just gorgeous. it was warm, but still noticeably cooler than here at home.

we rode a steam engine, twice. we got to ride almost a dozen rides, a lot. no standing in line. the ride times themselves even seemed longer. there was a chair lift to take you to the top of the mountain where there were more rides, gem mining and a petting zoo. the whole time i just couldn't believe how much fun we were having. how much fun the kids were having. and they said so. several times. we all had a blast. the kids were good. they didn't bicker. we all laughed. we enjoyed the scenery. reveled at the fun. i am in love with yesterday.

it was one of those days that you want to wrap up in a blanket and relive over and over again. such memories we made. it was a truly priceless day and i can't quit yammering about it : )

we all want to go again. my friend big t has been telling me for years that we should go there, i should have listened to her before. but really, regardless--everything came together and made the day perfect. driving home down the parkway it drizzled a little bit, i love rain anyway, but rain in the mountains? simply amazing. grand. fantastic. we got home around 8pm and we were all worn out, a little sunburned, though not so much that we're hurting.

today we just chilled out mostly, went out for lunch and that's about it. hard to top a day like yesterday. it made me so happy, to see my family enjoying themselves, being happy, living life. god, i just think i will explode w/ how great it was : )