And so another Visit is over.

Twice a year we get the opportunity to have my folks in to stay with us. Well, actually, to stay in with my Sister in law. :) We don't have a room for guests, so i suppose you could say we "rent out" a guest room just down the street.

We have my folks join us in our everyday events: they went to school with Julia for Chapel and Show and Tell. They came exploring through the woods, ice, and snow. We shared our evenings playing games and talking. We even shared cold-bugs. ik. Bowling together, biblestudy together, cooking together. together.

Real life is satisfying. It is always nice to share it with my parents, since usually they only get to experience Real Life with us over the phone or internet! :) My mom and I had a nice date out for a walk and some window shopping in the Cultural hub of Sarnia. :) My dad and I ran together on day while he was here, the plan was to do much more than that.... but time and sickness got in the way! On the First Friday of each month Sarnia's downtown stays open later than the usual 8 pm, with live music, or special art displays or projects set up for passersby to examine. After perusing some art galleries, we went to a Local Tea and Jam Tasting. (okay HOW GREAT IS THAT????) The "Local" part being both where they were made and what they were made of. My favorite was a very strong Carolinian Blend tea called "Four seasons". We purchased a Sumac Jelly, which was so good it is gone just a short week later!! We have a lot of Sumac trees here, so it was neat to buy something that we talk about frequently with the kids. The Native Americans used them for various foods and dyes, and now we know something practical we could make out of them!! :)

Dad brought "My Side of the Mountain" to read with Julia (at my request), here ((pictured above)) he is telling the tale as we sit my a fireside! :) how appropriate for the story! :)

Well, now the house is sitting much more still and quiet. we are still trying to shake the cold bug that entered it a week and a half ago though, boo. Sam and Mercy have it the worst, and i finally had to take meds to fall asleep last night due to congestion. boo. But hey, this year has still been TEN TIMES better than last years' flu season. ik.