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Sunday, July 12, 2009

Escaping the Quiet (and laundry)

I think Dave might’ve felt a little sorry for me because he overheard me telling Jodi that the house seems way too quiet for me these days.

As an aside…

I know some of you moms feel like you will never have your space or alone time back and that life is so hectic you just crave a few minutes to yourself, but believe me when I tell you that time goes so quickly and soon enough your home is quiet again.  My children are now in the early stages of adulthood and they both are exploring all that is being opened up to them.  While there is SO much joy in sitting on the sidelines watching it, there are moments of wishing I had them back in my nest as the precious little boys that I was blessed to raise.

Anywho…

I think in light of my whining, David asked me yesterday morning if I wanted to go for a drive.  Our Saturdays typically consist of him working the cattle or cleaning up at our property about 20 minutes away, while I stay home and catch up on housework or laundry OR totally skip that fun and go to a movie or something.  I prefer the latter.

David wanted to take me to the James A. Gaston Visitor Center which serves as the primary contact point for visitors to the Bull Shoals-White River State Park.  It overlooks the dam and is in a beautiful location. 

James Caston Visitor Center CIMG0566

CIMG0567 CIMG0568We watched a movie that gives the history of the area and the building of the dam.  It is so interesting to see the changes that this area has gone through over the years.  And we saw some familiar faces… (I took these shots of the movie as it played)

CIMG0559Hello, Jeff! (the young fisherman)

CIMG0554Forrest Wood talking about the construction of the Bull Shoals Dam in the 1950s.

After visiting the center, we decided to hit a few flea markets and thrift stores.  We didn’t find much, but I was grieved to see three “Body For Life” books for $5 each.  I couldn’t pass up the third one… so I now have an extra copy of one of my all-time favorites.  I also saw countless “Dr. Phil” Weight Loss program books – no grieving there.

We also previewed an estate auction that was to take place last night, but didn’t see anything of interest, so we headed to Subway for a bite before going home.

CIMG0569

I finished off a good day watching a couple of chick flicks… “The Holiday” and “Failure to Launch”.

On another note… I was SO excited to see Big Brother 11 premiere this week.  Three nights a week!! 

bigbrother

Anyone else a Big Brother follower??

11 comments:

Unknown said...

What a nice picture of the two of you. I wish I could visit Arkansas sometimes, but seeing your blog updates this past year have help smooth out that longing. And boy do I take to heart all you have to say about the little chicks leaving the nest. Think I could send my half-grown birds up there sometime to help break the silence? ;-) Much love from your south Louisisana cuz.

beckylbranch said...

That's so great you got to get out of the normal routine and just enjoy the day together. It sounds like you had a good day! I am unfortunately not a BB follower-I just haven't ever gotten into it!

Susie said...

Looks like you ended up having a wonderful day. My hubbie would love learning the history of the dam.

I use to watch Big Brother but haven't in a good while. I hope you enjoy it!

In His Army said...

Cute pic of you both :) I have never bene over there since the visitor center was finished, but I took some pictures back when they were building it. I noticed somewhere that I was at the other day had the Body for Life books on sale for $5 too...

Kayla said...

Y'all are too stinkin cute! I'm sooo glad he did that for you!! Maaaaaybe not this coming up weekend but the next we could come home and spend the Saturday out doing something like that or at the lake and grilling or something.

Hope you got a nap in :)

Kelley said...

I love the picture of you two! What a great way to spend the day. That visitor's center looks beautiful. I love the scenic pictures. I am so glad that you reminded me that the time with MK at home is short. I was just feeling a little overwhelmed at how I have not had a minute to myself. I'll stop that thought and go hug on her a bit. She is so thrilled to be home. The car ride was just too much for her.

Heather said...

Sounds like a great day! I know I haven't been visiting your blog (or any blogs for that matter!) much lately, but I hope you know how much your encouragement and sweet comments mean to me! I loved what you said at the beginning of this post and that is why I am trying to live the most of every single day!!! Just wanted to say thanks for being such a sweetie and I am so honored and blessed that my Avery Kate shares a birthday with YOU!!! :)
Have a great week!

Dorothy said...

What a fun outing! I love a day like that! Nice shot of you and Hubby!

Betsy said...

I can totally relate to your empty nest feelings, Jacquie!! We'll just have to hang in there together! ;)

Your day sounds like alot of fun! Spending the day with your husband is good for the heart, right? I love hanging out with Steve. We always have a good time. Looks like ya'll did too!

The Garners said...

Cute picture of y'all!

Yes, we're excited about Big Brother too--what great entertainment! :)

Lauren said...

I love big brother and loved all the pics! :)