Viva La Russells: The Adventures Begin...

   We continue to find fun things to do here in Southeast Missouri. Over Memorial Day weekend, we had a great mixture of activities to keep us busy. On Saturday morning, my parents watched the girls so I could do my first official "long run" of my half marathon training. This run was an easy four miles at a local trail, and I can't tell you how much I appreciated having the flexibility to just go run by myself! After cleaning up, we ate a delicious lunch at Wibb's (those of you from this area need no explanation - for every one else, it serves best BBQ sandwich and I just can't pass it up when I'm in town). Our next stop was a local Strawberry Festival hosted by Teen Challenge. We spent about an hour there, and it was perfectly geared toward Audrey. She saw a few animals, got balloons, watched a puppet show, and rode a little train (with me by her side, melting in the metal seat).
   On Sunday, I truly enjoyed attending Cowboy Church with my parents. The music and message is always phenomenal, but today I was touched in how the church honored those who have served and currently serve in our military. When they asked all military, past and present, to stand, the auditorium was filled with men and women of all ages standing proudly. I, as the wife, sister, niece, and granddaughter of men who sacrifice for this great nation by serving in our military, was moved to tears. Our nation is blessed because of the men and women who wear the military uniform.
   Sunday afternoon, I took Audrey to our city pool while my parents watched Claire. Audrey and I had a blast, and it was great to spend some quality time with her (splashing our way around the pool). On our way home, I decided that ice cream would be a perfect way to end our afternoon. That evening, my dad sent my mom and me out to watch a movie while he put the girls to bed. I think my parents saw that I needed a break (as I'd been facing a few nights of tough bedtime battles with Audrey). I did, and I was refreshed by an evening out with my mom.
   In our most recent adventure, I took Audrey and Claire to a brand new children's museum in Cape. Audrey spent the morning running free in the museum and exploring all of the exhibits while Claire happily watched the chaos. Audrey said her favorite things were the marble table (where she dropped marbles down a tower someone else had built) and the arts and crafts table.
   Tomorrow, Audrey has her first gymnastics class. She hasn't stopped talking about it since I signed her up a week ago! I am almost as excited as she is, as I know she's going to love it!