We took a little vacation, despite DH's painful shoulder. With the lack of running water, we didn't need to think too hard about taking a short trip to LaCrosse, to a hotel with running water and a poolside room. We stayed here. Of course, swimming was the highlight of the trip for the kids. If they had their way we would've stayed at the hotel without ever leaving. I, however, love to see things when we visit new communities. We attended mass at St. Joseph of the Workman, which is the cathedral. What a blessing it was to buy my Advent candles right at the church. We headed out to the Shrine to our Lady of Guadalupe. We ate a nice breakfast at the restaurant where Lou commented that she felt like she was eating in a palace. I purchased a book on Patron Saints and a St. Nicholas holy card and we attempted to take a walk to the Votive chapel which was locked. It was about 10 degress and windy and we were not dressed for a hike, but we did make a mental note to come back in the summer when we can enjoy the grounds and walking trails. Another excursion scored high with the kids. A horse drawn carriage ride through Riverside Park to view the Rotary Lights. Approximately 1.5 million lights can be seen and a live nativity viewed. We were even counted by the Roman soldiers as we came into Bethlehem. Monday was a good day to take a drive through farm country. It was cold and the kids were tired from all the swimming. We jumped in the truck and drove through the Cashton area which is home to many Amish families. Grace and I stopped for some homemade cashew crunch and to look at some Amish made furniture. The Amish woman was so friendly and commented to Grace about school. She said she was homeschooled and the woman's face lit up as she remarked, "Not many of your people do that." I simply replied that the number is growing and it is a perfect fit for our family. With a big smile and a twinkle in her eye, she looked at Grace and said, "You'll learn a lot more at home than you ever would in school. You're a fortunate girl." Her accent was fascinating and her voice gentle. To be validated in the work that I do, this was the best part of the trip for me.
Note: Blogger won't let me post any pictures. Sorry, I had some good ones.
