Looks sort of like a lineup, to get into the Breakfast Club, right? RIP, John Hughs!
My husband's Aunt Ann passed away last week (cancer sucks, btw) and, although the Leavitts aren't really related to the Thompsons — I'd venture to guess it's why my husbands family got along so well with their family — Ann and Pres were at our wedding, they both got a chance to meet 2 out of 4 of our kids (in person) and we've been exchanging Christmas cards…GULP…for almost 20 years, now.
It's been Aunt Ann and Uncle Pres, ever since.
So, we decided to attend her memorial service last weekend, as she was perhaps the kindest, funniest and most bravest woman I know (battling cancer for 10 years, sucks wet poodle!) and, well, nothing says, "Hey kids, it's time for another fun-filled family vacation," like a death in the family, right?
Riiiight.
Aaaaand, where did we take them?
To see LOTS OF DEAD PEOPLE, of course!
A little battle-weary, but Gettysburg seemed to have survived our visit, well enough.
My husband, Garth (not his real name) and I have always wanted to visit Gettysburg National Park in Pennsylvania — because, deep down inside, we are both just frustrated history professors, striving to bore our kids, out of their minds, with endless facts, about history, in retaliation for an unimaginable number of sleepless nights, spent not sleeping, because it's how we parents with older kids roll, really — however, our plan sort of backfired.
Overheard from below: "Yeah, that guy Lincoln, he's cool!"
The kids felt a deep sense of pride, thanks to Grandma's and Grandpa's extensive family research, in knowing that there was indeed a Frederick Thompson who served as a fife in the Civil War and they ALL seemed to be enjoying themselves, DAMMIT.
Ring around the…um…just be quiet and look like you're having a good time, 'kay!
Okay, so the boy was hot, the middle girl was tired, the oldest girl is hiding (pssst, she's behind the tree) but, thanks to my infatuation with those Ghost Hunters dudes on Syfy (or, used to be Sci-Fi Channel) the youngest one spent the entire day looking for ghosts!
3 out of 4 kids DO, however, recommend climbing the tower, while my middle girls and I sort of just enjoy taking pictures of them…in very high places, like towers, I mean.
See, I told you it was tall…and that kid over there…on the right…he's actually a GIANT…but, not mine…little beast-terd refused to get outta my shot!
What'cha lookin' at…Willis…Lawyer John's Wife…Mary?!?
Then, we hit Amish country and the kids were all, like, we want to walk barefoot and drive a horse and buggy. Until, I reminded that, you know, walking barefoot, around horses, was probably not a very good (or, sanitary) idea —-> see picture below.
We break for the Amish!
Although, even as a child, I remember visiting Pennsylvania Dutch Country with my parents and I can't help but envy the slow-paced lifestyle of the Amish. Still, my two oldest girls (they are 15 and 13) were a little surprised to hear that Amish teenagers get a chance to visit our part of the world, as well.
"It's called Rumpelstiltskin, or something."
The family car.
Actually, Rumpspringa is when Amish kids get to "run around," perhaps even visit Jersey, with their shoes on and take pictures of people in the suburbs, riding their lawn mowers, or something, I think.
In the end, it was a very relaxing, land-locked and non-theme-park-type weekend we hoped it would be, even if the entire Pennsylvania Dutch Country seems to be closed on Sunday…hence, one REALLY long road trip…I did, however, get a chance to pick up an Amish cookbook (I know, wishful thinking) because, even though I don't try a blessed recipe, I sort of liked the foreword:
Have faith in God, work hard and rest well.
Almost makes me wish I was Amish, or Catholic, whatever, either way, the kids and I are spending the rest of the summer, barefoot.
Aunt Ann would have liked it, that way.
© 2009 This Full House – All Rights Reserved.
Comments
45 responses to “I Think My Kids Are Getting a Little Tired of Summer, or Just Turning Amish, I Really Think So!”
YOU MAY NOT KNOW THAT I FOLLOW YOU, BUT HERE I AM…AND I HAVE GIVEN YOU AN AWARD…CHECK OUT MY BLOG TO RECEIVE IT! HAVE A GREAT DAY!
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YOU MAY NOT KNOW THAT I FOLLOW YOU, BUT HERE I AM…AND I HAVE GIVEN YOU AN AWARD…CHECK OUT MY BLOG TO RECEIVE IT! HAVE A GREAT DAY!
YOU MAY NOT KNOW THAT I FOLLOW YOU, BUT HERE I AM…AND I HAVE GIVEN YOU AN AWARD…CHECK OUT MY BLOG TO RECEIVE IT! HAVE A GREAT DAY!
YOU MAY NOT KNOW THAT I FOLLOW YOU, BUT HERE I AM…AND I HAVE GIVEN YOU AN AWARD…CHECK OUT MY BLOG TO RECEIVE IT! HAVE A GREAT DAY!
I suppose their spandex is all black and under their aprons?
I suppose their spandex is all black and under their aprons?
I suppose their spandex is all black and under their aprons?
I suppose their spandex is all black and under their aprons?
I suppose their spandex is all black and under their aprons?
Busy Mom,
I dunno, perhaps your question warrants another visit? Although, it may be difficult to tackle one of ’em to find out. They’re pretty fast (and strong) must be all the sauerkraut, or something.
Busy Mom,
I dunno, perhaps your question warrants another visit? Although, it may be difficult to tackle one of ’em to find out. They’re pretty fast (and strong) must be all the sauerkraut, or something.
Busy Mom,
I dunno, perhaps your question warrants another visit? Although, it may be difficult to tackle one of ’em to find out. They’re pretty fast (and strong) must be all the sauerkraut, or something.
Busy Mom,
I dunno, perhaps your question warrants another visit? Although, it may be difficult to tackle one of ’em to find out. They’re pretty fast (and strong) must be all the sauerkraut, or something.
Busy Mom,
I dunno, perhaps your question warrants another visit? Although, it may be difficult to tackle one of ’em to find out. They’re pretty fast (and strong) must be all the sauerkraut, or something.
A Word To The Wise 4 All Moms!
I have listened to doctors, teachers, counselors as well as social workers dish out advice about our children and some of it is well taken, but all must be critically perused and evaluated by us, were the mommies! Who could possible know our children better than we do?
Some children have adverse reactions to sugar and some do not, however experts would like to paint all children with the same broad brush. Teenagers having problems in school is a good example. The first direction the experts seem to like to pursue is Attention Deficit. However a wise individual would first pursue the basics such as: Are their marital problems in the home or some type of alcohol or drug abuse? Is the child fighting thru Identity issues such as sexuality? These are just a few of the possibilities that could be causing children problems and us Mommies and Daddy’s need to make sure everything is being addressed before we push it off on a medical condition. I’m not saying we don’t look at everything; however it seems we live in a society that loves to turn directly to medication to solve a problem! Just watch the evening news and I’m sure you will see what I mean. The drug companies are now pursuing us directly to get us to ask our doctors for their drugs! The government likes to preach “Just Say No to Drugs”, and then they pitch them at every opportunity!
My 16 year old was being tortured by mean girls via email and was heartbroken. She was having some acne issues as we all did but they were extremely mean to her in nature. It was not easy but I found a site that carries Cyber Bully Alerts warning the children to STOP sending these emails as they are being watched and logged and will be prosecuted. We all know what this kind of meanness can lead to with teen suicides and all. I found the cards at http://www.hatecards.net and they did the trick! The torture stopped for Sarah and that was good enough for me. We need to find ways to overcome and adapt to protect our kids.
We can care for runny noses and chapped bottoms, but we must look out for our babies through high school and educate them to think for themselves until they learn too!
Billie
At Home Mom in MN
A Word To The Wise 4 All Moms!
I have listened to doctors, teachers, counselors as well as social workers dish out advice about our children and some of it is well taken, but all must be critically perused and evaluated by us, were the mommies! Who could possible know our children better than we do?
Some children have adverse reactions to sugar and some do not, however experts would like to paint all children with the same broad brush. Teenagers having problems in school is a good example. The first direction the experts seem to like to pursue is Attention Deficit. However a wise individual would first pursue the basics such as: Are their marital problems in the home or some type of alcohol or drug abuse? Is the child fighting thru Identity issues such as sexuality? These are just a few of the possibilities that could be causing children problems and us Mommies and Daddy’s need to make sure everything is being addressed before we push it off on a medical condition. I’m not saying we don’t look at everything; however it seems we live in a society that loves to turn directly to medication to solve a problem! Just watch the evening news and I’m sure you will see what I mean. The drug companies are now pursuing us directly to get us to ask our doctors for their drugs! The government likes to preach “Just Say No to Drugs”, and then they pitch them at every opportunity!
My 16 year old was being tortured by mean girls via email and was heartbroken. She was having some acne issues as we all did but they were extremely mean to her in nature. It was not easy but I found a site that carries Cyber Bully Alerts warning the children to STOP sending these emails as they are being watched and logged and will be prosecuted. We all know what this kind of meanness can lead to with teen suicides and all. I found the cards at http://www.hatecards.net and they did the trick! The torture stopped for Sarah and that was good enough for me. We need to find ways to overcome and adapt to protect our kids.
We can care for runny noses and chapped bottoms, but we must look out for our babies through high school and educate them to think for themselves until they learn too!
Billie
At Home Mom in MN
A Word To The Wise 4 All Moms!
I have listened to doctors, teachers, counselors as well as social workers dish out advice about our children and some of it is well taken, but all must be critically perused and evaluated by us, were the mommies! Who could possible know our children better than we do?
Some children have adverse reactions to sugar and some do not, however experts would like to paint all children with the same broad brush. Teenagers having problems in school is a good example. The first direction the experts seem to like to pursue is Attention Deficit. However a wise individual would first pursue the basics such as: Are their marital problems in the home or some type of alcohol or drug abuse? Is the child fighting thru Identity issues such as sexuality? These are just a few of the possibilities that could be causing children problems and us Mommies and Daddy’s need to make sure everything is being addressed before we push it off on a medical condition. I’m not saying we don’t look at everything; however it seems we live in a society that loves to turn directly to medication to solve a problem! Just watch the evening news and I’m sure you will see what I mean. The drug companies are now pursuing us directly to get us to ask our doctors for their drugs! The government likes to preach “Just Say No to Drugs”, and then they pitch them at every opportunity!
My 16 year old was being tortured by mean girls via email and was heartbroken. She was having some acne issues as we all did but they were extremely mean to her in nature. It was not easy but I found a site that carries Cyber Bully Alerts warning the children to STOP sending these emails as they are being watched and logged and will be prosecuted. We all know what this kind of meanness can lead to with teen suicides and all. I found the cards at http://www.hatecards.net and they did the trick! The torture stopped for Sarah and that was good enough for me. We need to find ways to overcome and adapt to protect our kids.
We can care for runny noses and chapped bottoms, but we must look out for our babies through high school and educate them to think for themselves until they learn too!
Billie
At Home Mom in MN
A Word To The Wise 4 All Moms!
I have listened to doctors, teachers, counselors as well as social workers dish out advice about our children and some of it is well taken, but all must be critically perused and evaluated by us, were the mommies! Who could possible know our children better than we do?
Some children have adverse reactions to sugar and some do not, however experts would like to paint all children with the same broad brush. Teenagers having problems in school is a good example. The first direction the experts seem to like to pursue is Attention Deficit. However a wise individual would first pursue the basics such as: Are their marital problems in the home or some type of alcohol or drug abuse? Is the child fighting thru Identity issues such as sexuality? These are just a few of the possibilities that could be causing children problems and us Mommies and Daddy’s need to make sure everything is being addressed before we push it off on a medical condition. I’m not saying we don’t look at everything; however it seems we live in a society that loves to turn directly to medication to solve a problem! Just watch the evening news and I’m sure you will see what I mean. The drug companies are now pursuing us directly to get us to ask our doctors for their drugs! The government likes to preach “Just Say No to Drugs”, and then they pitch them at every opportunity!
My 16 year old was being tortured by mean girls via email and was heartbroken. She was having some acne issues as we all did but they were extremely mean to her in nature. It was not easy but I found a site that carries Cyber Bully Alerts warning the children to STOP sending these emails as they are being watched and logged and will be prosecuted. We all know what this kind of meanness can lead to with teen suicides and all. I found the cards at http://www.hatecards.net and they did the trick! The torture stopped for Sarah and that was good enough for me. We need to find ways to overcome and adapt to protect our kids.
We can care for runny noses and chapped bottoms, but we must look out for our babies through high school and educate them to think for themselves until they learn too!
Billie
At Home Mom in MN
A Word To The Wise 4 All Moms!
I have listened to doctors, teachers, counselors as well as social workers dish out advice about our children and some of it is well taken, but all must be critically perused and evaluated by us, were the mommies! Who could possible know our children better than we do?
Some children have adverse reactions to sugar and some do not, however experts would like to paint all children with the same broad brush. Teenagers having problems in school is a good example. The first direction the experts seem to like to pursue is Attention Deficit. However a wise individual would first pursue the basics such as: Are their marital problems in the home or some type of alcohol or drug abuse? Is the child fighting thru Identity issues such as sexuality? These are just a few of the possibilities that could be causing children problems and us Mommies and Daddy’s need to make sure everything is being addressed before we push it off on a medical condition. I’m not saying we don’t look at everything; however it seems we live in a society that loves to turn directly to medication to solve a problem! Just watch the evening news and I’m sure you will see what I mean. The drug companies are now pursuing us directly to get us to ask our doctors for their drugs! The government likes to preach “Just Say No to Drugs”, and then they pitch them at every opportunity!
My 16 year old was being tortured by mean girls via email and was heartbroken. She was having some acne issues as we all did but they were extremely mean to her in nature. It was not easy but I found a site that carries Cyber Bully Alerts warning the children to STOP sending these emails as they are being watched and logged and will be prosecuted. We all know what this kind of meanness can lead to with teen suicides and all. I found the cards at http://www.hatecards.net and they did the trick! The torture stopped for Sarah and that was good enough for me. We need to find ways to overcome and adapt to protect our kids.
We can care for runny noses and chapped bottoms, but we must look out for our babies through high school and educate them to think for themselves until they learn too!
Billie
At Home Mom in MN
So sorry about Aunt Ann. Looks like she would have approved of the weekend!
So sorry about Aunt Ann. Looks like she would have approved of the weekend!
So sorry about Aunt Ann. Looks like she would have approved of the weekend!
So sorry about Aunt Ann. Looks like she would have approved of the weekend!
So sorry about Aunt Ann. Looks like she would have approved of the weekend!
And, what’s up with the post in the comments? geesh.
And, what’s up with the post in the comments? geesh.
And, what’s up with the post in the comments? geesh.
And, what’s up with the post in the comments? geesh.
And, what’s up with the post in the comments? geesh.
My mother was fascinated with US history (she’s Scottish) and dragged us all over the place on historic trips we HATED. Guess what? I now LOVE history and can’t wait to drag my girls to Williamsburg and get all excited when they re-enact the churning of the butter. I thought my mother was a nut, but now I really get it.
Beautiful pics too. My husband is from Amish country and we look forward to showing it to the girls.
My mother was fascinated with US history (she’s Scottish) and dragged us all over the place on historic trips we HATED. Guess what? I now LOVE history and can’t wait to drag my girls to Williamsburg and get all excited when they re-enact the churning of the butter. I thought my mother was a nut, but now I really get it.
Beautiful pics too. My husband is from Amish country and we look forward to showing it to the girls.
My mother was fascinated with US history (she’s Scottish) and dragged us all over the place on historic trips we HATED. Guess what? I now LOVE history and can’t wait to drag my girls to Williamsburg and get all excited when they re-enact the churning of the butter. I thought my mother was a nut, but now I really get it.
Beautiful pics too. My husband is from Amish country and we look forward to showing it to the girls.
My mother was fascinated with US history (she’s Scottish) and dragged us all over the place on historic trips we HATED. Guess what? I now LOVE history and can’t wait to drag my girls to Williamsburg and get all excited when they re-enact the churning of the butter. I thought my mother was a nut, but now I really get it.
Beautiful pics too. My husband is from Amish country and we look forward to showing it to the girls.
My mother was fascinated with US history (she’s Scottish) and dragged us all over the place on historic trips we HATED. Guess what? I now LOVE history and can’t wait to drag my girls to Williamsburg and get all excited when they re-enact the churning of the butter. I thought my mother was a nut, but now I really get it.
Beautiful pics too. My husband is from Amish country and we look forward to showing it to the girls.
Headless Mom: Thanks and I know – but, all are welcome to leave their views, no matter how…um…wordy OR irrelevant…geesh is right.
Headless Mom: Thanks and I know – but, all are welcome to leave their views, no matter how…um…wordy OR irrelevant…geesh is right.
Headless Mom: Thanks and I know – but, all are welcome to leave their views, no matter how…um…wordy OR irrelevant…geesh is right.
Headless Mom: Thanks and I know – but, all are welcome to leave their views, no matter how…um…wordy OR irrelevant…geesh is right.
Headless Mom: Thanks and I know – but, all are welcome to leave their views, no matter how…um…wordy OR irrelevant…geesh is right.
Mold on Wonder Bread (awesome blog name, btw!):
My parents are from Hungary and were also into American history, so I’m like you and love it, too.
Williamsburg is awesome — especially, visiting with kids — we were there a few years ago and hope to get back again, soon.
Thanks for stopping by!
Mold on Wonder Bread (awesome blog name, btw!):
My parents are from Hungary and were also into American history, so I’m like you and love it, too.
Williamsburg is awesome — especially, visiting with kids — we were there a few years ago and hope to get back again, soon.
Thanks for stopping by!
Mold on Wonder Bread (awesome blog name, btw!):
My parents are from Hungary and were also into American history, so I’m like you and love it, too.
Williamsburg is awesome — especially, visiting with kids — we were there a few years ago and hope to get back again, soon.
Thanks for stopping by!
Mold on Wonder Bread (awesome blog name, btw!):
My parents are from Hungary and were also into American history, so I’m like you and love it, too.
Williamsburg is awesome — especially, visiting with kids — we were there a few years ago and hope to get back again, soon.
Thanks for stopping by!
Mold on Wonder Bread (awesome blog name, btw!):
My parents are from Hungary and were also into American history, so I’m like you and love it, too.
Williamsburg is awesome — especially, visiting with kids — we were there a few years ago and hope to get back again, soon.
Thanks for stopping by!