Smoky Mountain Memories – Part 1
Yes, this is Part 1 of our Smoky Mountain Memories, in an effort to not overwhelm you (or myself) with a lengthy picture heavy post, here’s Day 1 and how this little getaway transpired.
After finding out that my mother in law had been diagnosed with cancer, and was facing some not so pleasant treatments in the near future, we decided it was time to escape reality and spend some much needed family time together.
Just the 10 of us…
A much needed time away to relax and focus on the blessings of life.
And an opportunity to not take ourselves so seriously…
We scrambled to pull it all together before her recent surgery. (She’s home recovering well, by the way. So thankful for your prayers!) Originally we planned on staying closer to home. We looked at hotels and cabins on Lake Michigan and surrounding cities, but accommodations were either booked or above our price range.
Turns out these mountains were calling our names…
Aren’t they breathtaking? Trust me, they are even better in person.
We found this mountain cabin rental where we could all stay under one roof, which I think made the trip…
And by splitting the cost, it made it more affordable than most hotels.
It had a air hockey table and a pool table, which made for some friendly competition,
Between brother and sister…
And brothers and brothers…
The first night we spent hanging out together in the cabin. We were ready for some grub after our 7 hour drive.
Pizza Take Out from Geno’s For the Win…
Followed by a soak for 4 in the Jacuzzi tub…
A full day of adventure was awaiting us the next morning…
I just gotta tell you that I think you are one brave mama!
So fun!! I love the silly grandparents pic:) So glad you were all able to get away for a little while!
Cute, Jen!! You take the best pictures. Makes me feel like I was there…almost!
So cute. Update more soon!!
What a wonderful idea! …and how nice for the grandparents. I know it was a special time for all of you and the grandma will be blessed with warm and wonderful memories of your time together in the days ahead, if and when they get rough!! (not fun–this cancer treatment!)
I will be thinking about her..and all of you in the days ahead, for I’ve learned that when a loved one is dealing with cancer, so is the whole family!!
Those little boys of yours will keep her going when she feels down hearted–I know they bring a lot of pleasure to all of their grandparents.
Blessings on all of you. May you all know God’s peace in all things. He loves us each one, with an ever lasting love. What a thought!!
Love it!
How wonderful that you were all able to have such a special weekend!!
Many more prayers still coming for your mother in law!!!
Cant wait to hear more!
What a great idea to take that time as a family before her treatment begins. Wonderful memories for everyone, I’m sure!
Every year in the summer we pick a different location (within driving distance for most) and rent out a huge house for a family reunion where we all can stay under one roof. There are like 40 of us now because he’s one of seven so it’s crazy but lots of fun. Last year we went to Yellowstone and this year it’s Duck Creek in southern Utah. We’re excited. All the best to Brad’s mother. Keep praying and leave it in the Lord’s hands.
I’m very behind on my blog reading so I’m just now learning about your MIL and I wanted to say that I’m so sorry, but glad to hear she is home recovering well. What a beautiful vacation and great time to spend with the ones you love.