The first ten days home in Michigan

We survived the flight home, all 17+ hours in the air plus layovers and arrived safe, sound and exhausted. We were so glad and thankful for the hotel room we had reserved in advance.

So far, so good, although we have been plagued with similar problems as last year with a well pump seized up and frozen water pipes last winter, so our home away from home away from home has been sleeping in the horse trailer at Joe and Carrie's. I've actually enjoyed it and being with the grandchildren is delightful.

Nelson's mom is not doing so well in the nursing home, but I think she was pleased to see us. We have been to see her twice and plan to go again Monday. We are making every trip count, trying to see as many people as we can (and managing to throw in a horse shoeing or trimming in between to help with finances). We spent Justin's birthday going to see the Blue Angels at the Traverse City Cherry Festival. Justin is growing so fast and talking so much. He can and will say and repeat everything he hears adults say!

So far, we have seen the Blue Angels at the Traverse City Cherry Festival on Justin's birthday, celebrated the Fourth of July (although I am ashamed to say I was so tired, I went to bed early all three nights it was celebrated here and missed it...I think Joe, the son-in-law saved a few for later), and have bathed and groomed my horse, although (SADLY!) I have not ridden him yet. He is complaining loudly about it every day, too, whinnying at me indignantly when I go out to give him hay or grain. It has been soooo hot and muggy that I have used those days for the bathing and grooming. That is good, too, and even though he would not admit it, Malik loves beauty shop. Max's turn is next! It was so hot today, I jumped in the pool with the girls, clothes and all! Tomorrow it is supposed to cool off and the riding will begin! Mykayla has had a lesson on her steed, Max, although she is not impressed with some of the things Nana makes her do to improve her balance or Nana's insistence that she control the horse instead of vice versa! She would prefer we get on and get going down the trail!

Stay tuned. It's past my bedtime. I'll write more of our adventures later!