Branson Vacation

We decided to go on one last quick vacation because we had some time share points to use up. School starts late for us, due to the construction, so it was the perfect time to go. We went down to Branson on Wednesday and came back on Sunday. We are really not into the shows down there, but go to get away, shop and so the boys can swim.

One place we enjoyed was Silver Dollar City. It was their last summer ride day, and most of the old-time craft booths were closed, but all the rides were open. The boys were fine with that, since they really only wanted to ride the rides anyway. There were basically no lines, and the boys got to ride multiple times if they wanted. One of their favorites was the giant barn swing. Here is a picture of the boys and Randy on it.


Usually Randy and the boys would go on the ride first, while I stayed with Ben. Then the boys and I would go on it. I chose not to go on this one. This was the only time Randy went on it. They did get me on a couple of roller coasters. I learned that I do not like the kind of roller coaster that just has a bar that goes across your lap. It totally feels like you are going to fall out. Give me the good old fashion shoulder bars any day. At least that gives you something to hold on to.

At the end of the day we went on the water rides. True to the warning signs we did get very wet. Why is it that the person who wants to get wet the least always manages to get wet the most? Here are some more pictures from Silver Dollar City.


The boys at the entrance.


Randy, John and Noah on a water ride.


How the boys felt every time I said, "Let's stop at this craft mall".


The giant chair.

The condo where we stay also has a decent indoor pool. The boys had fun swimming and playing with some of the other guests. However, we did learn a few very important lessons.
1. Babies who like beans, love bean burritos from Taco Bell.
2. Sometimes waiting a 1/2 hour before swimming is not long enough.
3. Don't let a baby swallow too much pool water.
4. Re fried beans will float in a pool.

That being said, Ben loves to swim. He kicked and squealed and splashed and wanted back in after we got out.

Another highlight of the trip was the Osceola Cheese Factory. We stopped on the way down and the way back to sample and purchase cheese. There were many different kinds of cheese and it was fun trying them to find our favorites.

On the way back through Kansas City we got to see the Royals and Twins baseball game. It was the first visit to a major league baseball stadium for the boys. They thought it was pretty neat. Fortunately our seats were in the shade, which was great for Ben, but bad for boys hoping to catch foul balls. We were cheering for the Twins who ended up winning easily, and had 2 home runs in the same inning. It was pretty cool.

We are home this week getting ready to move, and preparing for school to start. Less than a week left and it is back to the old routine. I am looking forward to it.