Pokagon

Every year AJ's family gets together for Thanksgiving at Pokagon State Park, which is just a few miles from Angola. We didn't go last year since we just had Ari, so this was his first trip. There are so many things to do, but what we like about it the most is that it is all focused around doing things as a family. We are very blessed to have family close to us, on both sides, that are loving and supportive.

Here are a few highlights from this past week.


Actual Thanksgiving meal...yum!



Laying upside down on the bed

Passing time during the long drive up there

Another meal, but this was at a restaurant called the Blue Gate. We visited Shipshewana, which is known for the Amish/Mennonite community there. This little town has cute little shops to go in and the best chicken and noodle dinner.

This was probably the first time Ari didn't smile...we were out shopping during his regular nap time. Sorry!

And this was a friend he made. This chef stands at the entrance to a cafe in the hotel we were at. We had to pass him every time we left to go somewhere and Ari would just point and stare.

We went for a hike on the last day and finally got to take Ari. It had been too cold before, so I'm glad it warmed up a little bit.

The other times we weren't out and about seeing things, we were playing games. I love to play games and think it is a great way to spend time with people. We were also able to go on the tobogan ride. I hear there are only three open in the U.S. so we are fortunate to enjoy it every year. Our high speed for the 1/4 mile run was 37 mph. I'd say that's pretty fast!

I hope everyone was able to enjoy Thanksgiving this year, considering all the sickness that has been going around. We are very thankful for our health and that no one in our family has been affected by anything worse than a bad cold. We will continue to count our blessings!