Sunday morning we attended a beautiful Mass for the Feast of Corpus Christi at St. Bernadette’s near Banner Elk. It was made particularly special since my parents went with us. After the wedding festivities wrapped up on Sunday evening, we spent Monday through Thursday relaxing at the house my grandparents built and that I’ve visited each summer, save one, since I was 10 months old. It’s wonderful to get to share it with Benjamin. This is his third year going but the first one he will really remember at all.
Benjamin thought being in the mountains was grand. He particularly liked hiking down to the creek nearby and hunting for salamanders and crawdads with Daddy.
Isn’t this place beautiful? I had to steal a smooch from my little man because he was just so precious enjoying being outside and exploring in the creek.
My parents and I took Benjamin to nearby Grandfather Mountain to see their animal habitats and to sample the treats in their fudge shop. Here’s Little Bear on the porch of the Fudge Shop looking quite content after having a chocolate and sprinkle covered pretzel:
It’s really been three years since Daniel and I have been on an actual vacation. Having hours on end to read, sip coffee or tea, take naps, and just enjoy being together was so refreshing and marvelous.
Friday through Sunday we spent in Greenville, SC with my Aunt, Uncle, and cousins. We went to the downtown Farmer’s Market Saturday morning and attended Mass at a stunning 19th century church, St. Mary’s.
It was the perfect length trip and we’re adjusting to being home and enjoying our own beds and our sweet little house.
Loved reading this post & viewing the photos! Your fond childhood memories reminded me of my own memories of camping at Big Sur. It is wonderful to offer to my children & grandchildren a similar summer experience, full of family fun, “out in the natures” and simple pleasures like cooking together, games at night, and (best of all) Camp Songs!