spoonful of sugar

We've been happy to see a lot of family as of late and was the "Spoonful of Sugar" for our home sickness. First, Devin's parents and grandpa came to visit us for a few days. We had a great time experimenting with them trying to be tour guides at places we've never been before. They were good sports about it and it was good to catch up with them in person.

This is an original cotton plantation. We got to pick it right off of the plant- the weirdest thing to see cotton balls growing like raspberries or tomatoes. Each blossom (the size of a cotton ball) had about 6 seeds in it... OH! so that's what a cotton gin is for! Naturally Devin did some climbing on these enormous trees that were so inviting to scramblers such as sir Devin. They had some animals to feed and pet, which was Cambry's favorite part for sure. All in all it was a fun experience to share with the Rappleyes and we are SOOO glad they came. Another particularly windy day we enjoyed exploring around the beautiful Crab Tree Lake. We also tried out a little Southern Barbecue where the meat is cooked in vinegar based marinades instead of tomato based. I think for the most part we all enjoyed it and everyone that wasn't pregnant was able to keep it down too. We thoroughly enjoyed their visit, and it was hard to say good bye.
My Sister-in-law Missy and the kids met us in Kinston (1 and 1/2 hours away) at this fun park and the kids loved playing and riding the train. Devin was once again lucky to be the alligator for Hadley and Browen squealed with delight as Devin "chomped" after them. He can't wait for Cambry to be old enough to play with him. Geez, we're going to miss you guys once you move!

Hurray for Aunt Lil!

Aunt Lil is serving in the Charlotte mission as the mission president's wife (mission mom). She drove to the edge of her mission so I could meet her and feel the love. We walked around this gravelly track at a park for a couple of hours and talked, then went to lunch. She is an angel and it was almost like being with my own mom. To top it off, she brought me home made goodies that felt like a gift from heaven. I'm so blessed.

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