We have recently returned from a very enjoyable two-week road trip through Kentucky (think "Bourbon Trail"), Tennessee (think Jerry Vandiver and some country music), and the Carolinas (including a visit in Charlotte with a guy who sometimes posts on here named Ancient Angler).  It was a really fun time in which we took the time to relax with some special friends and family whom we see far too seldom, and also a time to lengthen the spring flowering season (think dogwood) with some careful timing.  Wonderful memories!   That was our April adventure.

In the summer we will be doing our now-traditional "grandchild vacations."  Robert's vacation this year will be in July.  The obligatory first night at the HGI in Middleton, Wisconsin, followed by a couple days/nights at Kalahari at the Wisconsin Dells.  (The kid loves water parks.)  Then we are off to spend four nights in a cabin on Ghost Lake near Hayward, Wisconsin.  One of the "quiet lakes".  Hope to do a little fishing, lots of swimming and canoeing.  Robert is 11, and he wanted to do "something different this year, but still some cabin time."  This should fit the bill.

August is Anna's vacation time, and we will follow as many traditions as possible with her.  This is the tenth anniversary of our first trip to northern Minnesota with her when she was four years old, and she is very tradition-conscious.  Because Spartan1 was ill last year and we had to cancel our trip, we are especially hoping that we can fulfill expectations this time around.  First night at Middleton, 2nd night at St. Paul with a visit to our friends there, and a week at a cabin on the Gunflint (Rockwood Lodge this time.)  Followed by two nights at Naniboujou Lodge so that she can get her "fix" of picking up rocks on the Lake Superior shore!  Lots of swimming, canoeing, relaxing, sleeping in every morning with hot chocolate as a wakeup.  Fishing on Clearwater Lake with our friend Marti Marchino.  Hard to believe our little girl can be fourteen already.

Then, if we can manage to stay healthy. . .our next adventure is a Caribbean Cruise in late December to celebrate our 50th Wedding Anniversary.  That one includes the whole family, kids, in-law kids, and both grandchildren.  7 days in the eastern Caribbean over Christmas. 

We may not be canoe-tripping anymore, but we aren't staying home either!