Tyler here – Cassie is running around crazy. I started reading her blog and wanted to add my thoughts. I took our boy down to see Grandpa perform at the Barbershoppers convention last weekend.

The barbershoppers stayed at the McCamly Plaza Hotel so we met Cassie’s dad there. Unlike my wife, I need my coffee; every morning. First stop: Starbucks.

Anyway, Kyle, my son, soon discovered the “treats” in Starbucks as we waited in line. Being the ham that I raised him to be, he started attracting attention from all the females. The girl behind the counter offered him the ‘biggest, most-special cookie,’ in the cabinet. He was pleased.

Then we went to watch Grandpa perform. I had seen barbershop performances before but it still astounds me each time; they are very talented people. Kyle and I even got to experience a warm up session as we ventured to our seats.

He sat still the entire time and watched patiently. He was in awe of the singers, but I have to thank the lady at Starbucks for kind giving my son, the best cookie in the bunch.

Over the years I have realized that everyone has their own escape or release from the world. Some people like to bake, others like to clean (I kid you not), and others work out. I’m the latter – I love to run.

This passion didn’t come to me until later in life but I found it to be quite addictive. Living through Michigan winters is torturous for me; I refuse to run in the frigid tundra. However with this beautiful weather I have been on the Linear Trail everyday.

There is just something about running outside; running past the beautiful landscaping, the flowing river and the other trail users. Everyone is so friendly! You smile at one another, wave and do the occasional head-nod. Life isn’t always so complicated when you are out on the trails, it’s simple: it’s a beautiful day and you are outside.

Ok – so I guess I should go for a run now, I’ve pretty much talked myself into it! Be sure to check out a map of the trails if you are interested. Grab your walking shoes, your rollerblades, or your bike and take advantage of the beautiful spring weather!

Tyler, my wonderful husband, has decided it is time to plan his 'boys weekend.' He informed me they were using the local Michigan's Southern Swing program.

It is a package program where you can stay at a hotel and golf for the weekend, or however long you have. I thought this was excellent! So- I wanted to share it with all of you.

Our budget is a little strapped this year (as I am sure most everyone else is too...) and with gas nearly $4 a gallon, this is the perfect way to get out for a bit. You know, I may even schedule my own weekend once he gets back....
Anyone else familiar with this program? I'd love to hear your adventures!

So the family is still here and they are having a great time! We went to the Heritage Adventist Village and it was such a great experience! The kids loved trying out all of Kellogg's inventions! My daughter was so focused on digging for tools in the sand box and my son loved looking at all of the pictures of Dr. Kellogg and his parrot! Plus, we as adults, found it fascinating how advanced he was in his thinking: excercise machines, light beds...who knew? Our relatives raved about it saying that it was such a great place to learn the local history and heritage of Battle Creek.

So I wanted to let all of you know what a great experince we had there and suggest that you take some time to visit them as well! If you have questions about our trip, be sure to let me know!