Let Me Introduce You to BOB!

When you are a member of the Bodine/Hart clan and have been coming to Hebgen Lake for the past 10 plus years, there is so much to do, see, hear, etc. Back in my day it was all about me getting up on waterskiis and then being good at it. Not for this group. It is about having the most fun, being silly, trying new things, coming up with new things. Today, I was in for a real treat. I had the privelege of meeting BOB.

My nieces and nephews adorned in trendy wet suits, boarded the boat with a colorful, inflatable tube. Noah and I were along for the ride. Pete, the driver of the boat, found an ideal spot away from other boating traffic. When the boat stopped, the participants jumped in the water. I found it rather interesting that my nephews reached for the pink tubes???? From there, they climbed aboard a tube, joined hands and then Pete circled them conjuring up all kinds of wakes and waves. From the boat, that is what we saw, colorful tubes and people in wetsuits BOBBING up and down.

It wasn't long before my daring, adventurous, crazy nieces and nephews went for the straight BOB--no tubes, just life vests.There were roars and shouts and it was obvious, the more BOBS the merrrier. There were times that I thought the boat got dangerously close, but Pete was and is trustworthy and everyone else thought it enhanced the excitement.

Will I play with BOB? Maybe next trip.

What I learned from the Participants: It is not about looking good, it is about
having fun. BOB ON... DUDES!

Just Who is This Old Faithful?

After church and after much dileberation, it had been decided--skip the Canyon and head to Old Faithful. For the original Bodine/Hart group, Old Faithful happened almost weekly. For Richie's Family and My Family it had been a while and there were so many childhood memeories. How awesome to now be taking our children into the land of our memories and traditions of the famous "Old Faithful Inn," the famous "Old Faithful Geyser,"the famous boardwalk of geysers to see.

Given that we had not eaten and Old Faithful had some time before it errupted, we began in the Old Faithful Inn Dining Room. I believe there were l8 of us that needed to be fed and so we had to be seated at different tables. Noah and I had the blessing of joining up with Richie, Camille and Johnathan. The Silver Fox of Idaho Falls, our Father treated us to this dining experience.

Everyone gathered on the deck of the Inn to wait and watch Old Faithful triumphantly spew out the steam. This would be a first for Noah. We had come when he was a baby, but there was no memory of this act of nature. He had absolutely no idea what to expect. In fact, he asked me, "Now who is this Old Faithful Guy?" Somehow he had it in his mind that Old Faithful was a man.

The time had come, the camera's were ready and Old Faithful performed brilliantly as in years past. It was spectacular and I was once again in awe of our Creator. Some of the group went back to the cabin while some meandered the boardwalk to view the other geysers. I felt the same intense fear, that I felt when Bry and Richie were little, now with my Noah--that of falling off the walk.Yes, my hand reached in front and ruined one man's photo opportunity, to Noah's shirt, where I yanked him back to scold about the scalding hot water and being careful yatta yatta yatta. I could see that Richie had that same fear as he had tight hold of his children. (This was another miracle to witness as I walked behind Richie--he was walking without the aid of crutches and at times, even ran.)

There were clouds above and Mom and Dad waiting back at the Lodge and so we headed back. We were amazed at the tracks of animals that walked on the thin crust of earth and tolerated the stench of rotten eggs and the fact that plants could even grow in this area of so much sulfur. Yet, we saw a Bison right there, with all it's weight standing by a geyser. It was a trip well worth taking and Noah said it best, "I am so happy I got to see Old Grateful." Yep. Maybe being GRATEFUL assists one in being FAITHFUL.

What I learned from Noah:  Old Grateful Faithful

The Luck of West Yellowstone

I always knew I was the luckiest Aunt around, but I didn't know just how blessed I was to have such amazing nieces and nephews. As they have grown into their own personalities, I continue to learn and grow from their example. Mallory and Jenn went into West Yellowstone with the rest of the crew. Most had tickets to Playmill Theatre. Mallory and Jenn had already seen the show and they decided that hanging out in West would provide them with an opportunity to create some fun.

I don't know who came up with the idea, but that wasn't the point. I thought surely they would be off shopping and scamming for cute boys that were tourists in this little town. Unbeknownst to me, they went around town bringing "LUCK" to those that were visiting.

The young women had a handful of pennies, that could have been spent on the penny candy in the sweet shop. Everyone knows the old adage, "Find a penny, pick it up and all day long you'll have good luck." Jenn and Mallory went around the town strategically placing pennies on the sidewalks for others to find. An "Abe Lincoln heads up" meant even more luck. If the penny did not land heads up, it got another toss. Only the best of luck would be acceptable for the visitors of West according to the minds of such lovely, thoughtful young women.

Later on, Mallory and Jenn retraced their steps to see if the pennies had been picked up. Sure enough, some of the pennies were in the pockets of others with the hope of good luck in the future. Later, when I heard about their kindness, and not from their boasting, but from a keen observer, I was sure to praise them for this deed.

I had seen pennies on the ground before, in fact Noah picked one up yesterday. "Hey mom, look, I found a lucky penny!" and then he put it in his pocket. I remember being at Bischoff's Carwash. I saw a quarter and a few pennies. I bent down to pick the coins up and every single one of them was glued to the pavement. I am sure someone was watching to see how many individuals would stoop for the prank. But oh no, not my nieces. They were not about making people look and feel foolish, but blessing lives and making others feel great!!!! What a contrast in the likes of a penny.

Now it would have been fine to end the story there, but later in the week, we were back in town for another show. We had a few minutes to walk the streets, stop in the candy store and fill our bags with over-priced PENNY candy. One of my nieces reached in her purse and pulled out a coin and said something similar to "here's a coin for you to toss and leave on the street for someone else to pick up and you can have the honor of being the means of someone feeling lucky." I was so impressed that she would want for me to experience and feel the joy that they had felt earlier on. Need I say more.  If they hapPENNY to read this--I love you!

Aunt Becca

What I learned from my Nieces:  Look for ways to bring joy to others and the worth of a penny far exceeds one cent.

Playmill, Playmill and More Playmill

Being a teenager in Idaho Falls, Idaho meant that we often had to create our own fun. I remember a particularly thrilling date with Chris Wilken...oh, and Eric Walker and who knows who else. It was a ride into West Yellowstone. The drive was about 90 minutes. We would enjoy a tasty meal, walk the streets and then head to the Playmill Theatre. It was a rather small theatre, but that meant the audience was more involved and made for a quaint and charming evening. There was the variety show, the intermission where the cast would sell treats for the second half, and always a fabulous and hilarious show.

Years later, my brother in law rented out a Cabin on Hebgen Lake--just minutes away from West Yellowstone. It became the family tradition to see the Playmill Theatre's Shows year after year...and not just one, all three, and not all three just once. I would say that the Bodine/Hart Family have done their share in keeping this company in business. It is a rather odd, but welcome feeling to walk in with the Bodine family and get an ovation from the Cast "Yea, the Bodines are here!"

There was Trent, David Walker, "Forever Plaid, " "Joseph," "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers," "Oklahoma" just to name a few of the gazillion memories. I believe one year, my nieces Madeline and Jennifer even went to a Playmill Theatre Camp and then performed what they had learned. Madeline stood front and center stage year after year as the cast sang "Happy Birthday" to her. She even got a smackeroo from a few hotties that performed at the Playmill.

Then there was the Single Seat. My niece, Mallory was able to live out her long awaited dream by requesting and sitting in the oh so awkward, randomly desired Single Seat. I had the good fortune to witness this event first hand. Then there was Mr. Big Hunk in another section--he was the recipient of a Tropical Ice Cream Treat via Mallory via overbearing aunt... Mallory was then the recipient of many OOOOHHHH and AAAHHHHS from the observing audience. That was a real bonding moment for me and my niece.

Okay, so this year, just when you think Playmill can't get any better...it "bcote."Niece, Miss Madeline, tried out for the cast and is now a very important member of the Playmill Theatre. There are three shows in which I have seen all of them and some of them even twice--"The Secret Garden," "Footloose," and "Guys and Dolls."It is an absolute rush for me to see her living a dream. Miss Mads is beautiful, energetic, and having the time of her life. The first night I was there, one of the opening numbers in the variety show was "Suddenly Seymour," played by another young woman in the cast. Oh how it bothered me. I had seen that number performed numerous times by Miss Mads in last year's "Little Shop of Horrors." How I longed to hear her sing that again...maybe even just once and I would be satisfied.

Though she did not have any leading roles, she played each role as if it were the lead. She was spectabulous and I was beaming with pride. Noah thought the Playmill was a nightly ritual and was so disappointed when we went into town JUST for dinner.

So now I am home.  I feel the "after Hebgen back to real life blues." I check my muted phone and there in what appeared to be bold print was "Madeline is performing 'Suddenly Seymour' with Addison tonight. I can hardly wait." I started looking for my keys to the car. I was not going to miss MY long awaited request. The thought occured to me to check to see when the text message was sent--yesterday--I MISSED IT!!! I truly wanted to cry. Is it possible to be so gratefully bummed? I was so grateful Madeline had the opportunity to sing that number on her birthday.I was so bummed I wasn't there to see it first hand and not a one of my family members had the gumption to record such a moment. Oh well...

Now that I have reminded and depressed myself that I missed Miss Madeline sing "Suddenly Seymour," I will close by saying, Playmill hasn't seen the last of me yet.

What I learned period: Dreams do come true, the Playmill Theatre and the Book of Mormon are true (spotted Books of Mormon on random benches with the town literature and advertisments,) I still have a case of bad timing and once in a great while, I can pull off the overbearing, over proud Aunt.

What I learned from Noah: "The theatre, the theatre"...my litlle boy had a grand time at the theatre.

Do You March in Parades and Search for Some Shade?

"Oh what do you do in the summer time when all the world is green? Do you march in parades or drink lemonade? Is that what you do? so do I!!!!"  This year just happened to be the year that our Primary was invited to participate in the Days of '47 Youth Parade. We felt honored as it is probably a once in a life time opportunity and it is the largest parade for children in the entire United States of America.Our Stake's Theme was "Building Eternal Families." The Primary bulletin board was full of 5 x 7 photos of Eternal Families in the making, that had been collected for the single purpose of having their family photo on the float.

In June, we took those photos over to the Stake Center where the children would assist in decorating the float. It was an adorable little home in which the 5 x 7 photos were placed on a brick and each child's stamped hand prints, were secured to a tile on the roof.

 (photo the Groendykes had on the float...taken at Draper Temple Open House)

Everyone learned a chant to repeat as we marched, "We build families...to last for Eternity...we have the tools, to follow the rules...when we work together, we can be Forever..yes we build families! YEA!  Noah would have nothing to do with this chant. It clearly embarassed him and he even asked me not to do it too.

On July 18, 2009, we met down by Trolley Square dressed in a white t-shirt, levi shorts, plastic yellow hard hats, and a foam tool belt. For the little Sunbeams, men were there with wheel barrows ready to push them in the event they were too tired to walk.

Having never participated in the Youth Parade or even seen the parade, I was amazed at the major production it really was... marching bands, awesome floats, royalty, children, children, and more children, TV cameras, people cheering....it was a memory to cherish and I felt the adrenaline rush. I shouted the chant so loud that I lost my voice and sent Noah fleeing to be with the more conservative wavers. I did not mention to Rick the costume because, frankly, I didn't expect him to participate. He inquired, "Why didn't you tell me to wear a white t-shirt and levis?" OOPS It really warmed my heart that he would be willing to be a part of this activity for Noah.

Following the Parade--popsicles and FUN awaited the children that had successfully marched in the Parade. It was inflatable Heaven.!!!! I had never seen so many balloon, blow up, bouncy, rubber type toy things ever!!!! Fortunately for us, we were the first Stake to complete the route, which meant we were able to hit the stations before the mad rush of children and parents.

The greatest surprise and most excitment I witnessed from Noah, is when Darth Vadar passed by us. Noah was determined to find him, talk to him, get a photo with him, and would have spent the rest of the day with him had it not been for my urging him back on the inflatalbe toys. Noah wanted me to go with him a second time so that he could tell Mr. Vadar, that he, Noah Dayne Groendyke was his number one fan. Mr. Vadar was huge and even had the voice.  If I didn't know better, I would have thought he was the real thing.

( is he from our freezer....ha ha)

Noah played until the sweat of his brow had soaked his hair. He built a birdhouse with Home Depot. He played cowboy type games and collected things from a vairety of booths. After we had worn ourselves to the bone, we had the Parade Route walk back to the car...uuugggghhhh. There was a friendly fire engine spraying cool water for those of us suffering from heat exhaustion.

Once we were in our over-heated car--Noah could only think about one thing--JOHNATHAN!!! The Richard Hart Family had already joined the Hebgen Lake Group and we were sure to follow.

What I learned from Noah: He is a builder, a marcher, a player, but not a chanter.

What I learned from Rick: He is an even better sport than I gave him credit for being.

What I learned from Me: I am so proud of my Pioneer Heritage!!!

Preserving Star Wars Characters

I came home from Hebgen with a tickle in my throat and a cough that was non stop. Sunday morning came and it wasn't any better. I was hoarse and the thought of trying to conduct singing time was not appealing. Fortunately, Sister Huppi was there for the rescue. I feel bad, because she is everyone's substitute, but that is the curse of being blessed with numerous talents and a willing heart. I am ever grateful for her.

(grandpa Hart goes Darth for the camera)

The cough medicine I took nearly knocked me flat. Noah was playing quietly on the floor with his Star Wars Characters. I nodded off into a Sunday sickness slumber. When I awoke, there were large zip loc bags everywhere and the Star Wars characters were no where in sight. Noah loves to do experiments. He had taken each character and placed the figure in a plastic bag, filled it with water, and placed them in the freezer. The freezer was full to the brim and the bags were frozen to the shelves of the freezer.

I have yet to figure out how to remove the characters without defrosting the whole freezer.That is something I will have to face when I return from Hebgen Lake. Besides, there are other ways to preserve Darth...Grandpa and Dad :)

(and just like Luke's Dad and my dad, Noah's Dad donned the dark mask :))

What I learned from Noah: It is not wise to go to sleep when curious minds experiment with preserving their love of Star Wars. Mmmm...Star Wars battles the Ice Age...

Hebgen 101

After church on Sunday (and a lengthy search for my camera,) Noah, Jenn and myself would make way to Idaho Falls...the first step in Hebgen 101. The Bodine and Hart Families have this vacation down to a science. Each and everyone knows their place, their assignment, and the events that will take place. The first night is in Idaho Falls where a storage unit holds wave runners, a boat, four wheelers and so forth. Each of the so called toys were hitched to the appropriate vehicle and ready for the journey ahead.

(Commercial Break--while passing through McCammon to Idaho Falls, we witnessed another magnificent storm and sky. It was probably to everyone's advantage that I misplaced my camera as I would have had to stop every five seconds to photograph the amazing beauty we now, could only absorb with our eyes. Jenn did get a video shot of the torrential rain fall that enhanced the thrill of the storm. If only we could have been outside to experience the petrichor...)

Everyone traveling to Hebgen was waiting for us at the Howard Hart Home. We had a quick reunion, laughs, and review of the morning after. The word: "be here, ready to leave at 9:00 am."Noah and I had sleeping arrangements at Grandma and Grandpa Harts. It was late getting to bed, but well worth the extra moments visiting with them. The home of my childhood looked beautiful. It is always a ritual for me to check each room in the house, look at the collages, go through the mail as if I still lived there, and see the photos posted on the fridge. Noah and I slept well in preparation for the big Grand Opening Day of the Cabin on Hebgen Lake.

I had the good fortune of having Jenn and Mallory join me for the ride up to the Lake. They gave me the play by play--groceries, check. equipment, check. gas, check. It was crazy to be in such a convoy of large vehicles all "psyched" about the adventure that awaited. At one time, I had the number two spot. Somehow, Lisa swiveled here, Pete passed there, Howard u-turned here and by golly, if I wasn't last vehicle.That was okay. They would break the wind for my even easier load. Then there was the traditional rest stop just short of West for bathroom, treats, and gas for the containers. It really is quite a production.

Jenn and Malls and their country tunes made the trip for me "bcote."(a word they made up...blow cool over the edge??) Truly, my hip nieces keep me young and laughing. I knew this was serious business when we arrived to the major dirt road just after the sign of Madison Arm Resort. Mallory, stated that at that moment she felt the rush of adrenaline pump throughout her being of the whole cabin experience as we arrived on that dirt road. This was a first time for Noah and me. We had not been there on day one of the cabin experience.

As we pulled into the lake front property, the work began--unloading. I have to say, no one slacked. Everyone knew that when the work was done, play could begin. Today the wave runners would be put into the water along with the boat. I sensed the excitement in each person as they hustled about. I too was thrilled to be a part of this adventure.

There were moments to catch a brief nap and some quiet fishing on the dock. Maddie, one of Playmill Theatre's Cast Members, came in for a welcome, a hug and an extra hand. True to form, the Opening Day of a 6 week hiatus on Hebgen Lake was awesome.

What I learned from Noah: He is very comfortable around adults and had no quams inviting himself to be Uncle Pete and Uncle Howard's wing man.

What I learned from the Bodine/Hart clan:  A cabin of order is a happy one and that repeating a task over and over again makes for all things to become second NATURE.

Happy Birthday America

Rick would often comment that celebrating the Fourth of July in Idaho Falls, was like taking a trip into the movie, "Doc Hollywood" with Michael J. Fox. Granted, we are not like the big timers in Salt Lake City. The parade of trucks, tractors and off-beat marching drill teams might give him reason to think that, but not the Fireworks in the evening. All one has to do is mention Idaho Falls to someone and they say, "Have you seen their spectacular firework show?"(We are not just famous for our potatoes.)

Some years, I did not make it to Idaho Falls because I had been invited to"The Stadium of Fire."Stars such as Donny Osmond soaring into the Stadium via glider never left me longing for the festivities in Idaho Falls. Since then we have been invited to friend's homes for barbecues, up Brighton Canyon for breakfast and a bicycle parade, yet, we have found the small community celebrations to be the most memorable.

When we took up residence here in South Jordan, one of the first items we were informed about, was the famous neighborhood "Cul de Sac of Fire." There would be no need to purchase pricey tickets to firework shows or make the drive to Idaho Falls. Last year's experience proved this to be true.

Fortunately for us, we had the privilege of having Jenn Bodine attend with us this year. She had no idea what to expect other than food and fireworks. Jenn and I began our preparations in the kitchen--making sugar cookies, getting our meat for the grill, buns, and the like. Noah was busy loading up his jeep with camp chairs and the fireworks he had selected earlier in the week. At 7:00 p.m. we walked to our Fourth of July Celebration--"The Cul de Sac of Fire."

As we came around the corner, I saw the look on Jenn's face.  It was neither one of surprise or shock, but that of stifled laughter. Clearly, we are on a small scale in comparison with the Los Altos, California Folk. All I could do was laugh with her.

Rick put meat on the grill, Noah gave jeep rides, and I took Jenn on a "meet my neighbor/niece" tour around the circle. We went to the buffet table to fill our paper plates with some of the neighbor's Fourth of July Specialties.

We didn't even get to dessert before all the children were in the center of the circle lighting up their own cheesy, loud whistling, smelly and occasionally duddy fireworks. I think that is what makes it such a thrill, that it is somewhat silly, quaint and over the top charming.

Before dusk, Noah had finished his set of fireworks. He would have stayed longer, but we were urged on home to watch a DVD. Sunday Morning comes early and we had burned the fireworks at both ends this July Fourth. I find myself as Patriotic as ever. I love to see America's Flag wave. I know we belong to a choice and promised land in which I am forever grateful to live and to be a citizen. Happy Birthday America.

What I learned from Noah:You can never have enough fireworks.

What I learned from Jenn: Tee hee hee hee hee.

What I learned from Rick: He is feeling more comfortable in this type setting.

What I learned from the neighbors: The best entertainment is often right in your own front yard.

EFY 09

Especially for Youth is an amazingly spiritually social program that brings my nieces to Utah for a week. I am the lucky aunt that gets to receive them at the airport, have them spend the night, drive them to a particular campus, check them in, pick up groceries and so forth. It is always such a treat to have these beautiful women in our home. This year, Jenn Bodine and her friend, Hannah graced us with their presence. Noah, couldn't be more pleased to have someone to play with and talk to...Da Vinci, on the other hand was not so approving.

The girls stayed in the room across from noah's room. A towel and toiletries were left by their bed.  Noah made cookies with smiley faces and a hand painted card to welcome them. It was evident that they lived what Jenn sang at stake play-"Girls Just Wanna Have Fun."They did and because they did, the rest of us did as well.

There was the trip to the grocery store and it is always entertaining to see what teen girls will pick out when parental guidance is void. Noah and I helped to get them settled at Promentory Point and then we were on our way. Noah said the moment we stepped on the elevator, "I miss them already."As we stepped off the elevator, there before my eyes was a student of mine from Oakridge Elementary. We exchanged hugs and off we went.

The week went by in a flash.

Rick, Noah and I went to Weber at the end of the week to pick up the girls. We had time to spare before Hannah's plane would leave. The girls had not had breakfast and so we stopped at the Wingpointe Golf Course for breakfast. Jenn and Hannah had had their fill of rubber eggs and so the request was french toast. All was well until the syrup would not pour onto the toast--it was "goo" "goop" "glue" who knows? It made for more smiles and great conversation.

What I learned from Noah: He wants the girls to come again next year as much as I do.  Be it boys, adults, young women or dogs...Noah gets along with everyone.

What I learned from Jenn and Hannah: How to have fun period.

Storm Chasing

This has definitely been the summer of storms. I have always thought that if I had the experience, the expertise, and the convenience, storm chasing would be right up my alley. One evening, Noah and I stepped out for bags of ice. When the garage door went up, there was a beautiful cloud before our eyes. I ran in the house for my camera just in case.

It wasn't long before the clouds began their transfromation. I was in awe of the beauty of the storm and I wanted to be a participant. I pulled off into a vacant parking lot, rolled down the windows and let the wind blow through me. Noah felt the same excitement and climbed up front while I snapped pictures. There was thunder and lightening and then...battery died. How is it that even when I think I am prepared (bringing the camera) I am still not prepared (dead battery.)

We watched for a few more moments. We were counting lightening strikes and thunder. Noah and I both let out a scream when the thunder and the lightening hit at the same time. We felt the vibration and we trembled like no ones business. It felt almost like it was directly above us.Then it rained a torrential rain. By the time we arrived back at home, the sun was trying to peer through the clouds. It made for a beautiful reflection and silhoutette.

I quickly grabbed Rick's camera, determined to follow this storm through until the end. It just doesn't get better than this...or maybe it does.

I turned around and above our home and perfectly framed was a double rainbow. Both rainbows very vibrant and clear. There was not a way to get the whole of the picturesque scene that was before me in a picture, but that didn't keep me from trying.

Just when I thought it wouldn't get any better, there above me, the clouds had transformed again. What an amazing setting of the sun. I took hundreds of pictures.I lived in the moment of the storm with my best friend, Noah. The hundreds of photos were put into a Shutterfly Book for viewing again and again.


What I learned from Noah: He has inherited his mom's love for the storm.

The Country Fest Blues

Summer is here and the activites of summer have commenced. One would think that I would have mounds of time to record the events. Not. Noah saved his money, and could hardly wait for the South Jordan Country Festival. Last year was so much fun.The first three weeks of June was all about rain, not just pitter, patter rain, but pouring rain.The day had arrived and we were not about to let a few dark clouds keep us from a couple of rides. The crowds at the fair were no where to be found. That meant for short lines...more like, no lines. It really wouldn't be that bad if we had had our jackets. I told Rick to take Noah on a few rides and I would run home and get the jackets and the rain gear. There was the kiddies train, the merry go round, the boats, and the fun house with bouncy toys. As I turned to leave, I couldn't help but wonder if we should have come yesterday. It was the only beautiful day we had had since school let out and our cute little busterooni was wearing yesterdays sunshine on his cheeks. (Because it was the only sun we'd seen in a while, I was not prepped with sunscreen.)  Today we would not have to worry about sunscreen.

I gathered enough rain gear to outlast any storm. I was huffing and puffing across the field with my arms full to the brim. I couldn't see Rick or Noah by the rides. I walked on over to the car/motorcycle display. I thought Rick would be ineterested in looking at the Anitque Cars. Noah turned around and my first thought was, "What happened to Noah's sunburned cheeks?"He was sporting a not so nice shade of BLUE.  Rick had used the first couple of tickets on the spinning rides and now all Noah wanted to do was go home. He was not feeling well at all. I wouldn't even say he was pale--this was a color I was not familiar with. I had him lie down on the blanket. I wasn't ready to leave. We still had tickets and booths to see. I wanted this to be a great day for Noah.

It wasn't long before Noah's breakfast resurfaced on the lawn. Funny how all one has to do is throw up and the color in your face returns. He wasn't feeling up for rides, but the booths where you pay for darts to pop a balloon and get a prize looked good to Noah. I was game, but Rick saw it as a further waste of money. Noah had a few rounds and his smile was back on his face.

The clouds grew dark and the wind began to blow. It would not be long before we would be in a downpour. We gave the rest of our tickets to one of the other families that decided to brave the weather. They were huddeled under one umbrella by a tree with hopes that the storm would blow over. No chance.

Though the Country Fest was not how we remembered it, we made new memories. I am sure we will be back next year, but maybe we will be a little more wise as to the rides we start with.


What I learned from Noah: If you don't want to stay long at the fair--go on the spinning rides first.