Camping in Iowa

Yep, you read that right! We journeyed down to Hazelton, IA to meet family from Peoria, Illinois. In the past, they have driven the 6+ hours to visit so it was decided to meet halfway (3+ hours) to camp out. Everyone got there on Thursday and Brad, Alayna and I arrived Friday. The weather was not typical for the middle of July but it really didn't matter! The theme for the weekend was Christmas in July and most campsites had lights and decorations. Our "neighbor" across the path played Christmas music which was fun too.

Friday - Ate a nice porkchop supper. Found out the local county fair was being held 10 miles away so we decided to check it out. As soon as we got there we heard Lion King music and Alayna's eyes got HUGE and she started to dance. A tiger show was about to begin and we sat down to watch. It was only 20 minutes but it was funny and full of crowd interaction plus the tigers were beautiful and trained with love (positive reinforcement). I was amazed and having seen Busch Gardens, circus and other animal shows I would say this was by far the best! Plus, it was free which we couldn't believe. The kids loved looking at the barn animals and rides on the midway. $2 to park provided a fantastic evening enjoyed by all!

Saturday - Fabulous breakfast. Chillin at the campsite. Crafts for the kids (made Christmas ornaments), played at the park, went for a walk. Visited an Amish furniture shop, candy kitchen and a couple Amish bakeries where we purchased jelly, fresh bread, cake, pies, etc. Then we went to Fontana Park which had several animals, a nature center, walking trails, etc. The kids had a blast! We ate lunch and napped and when the kids got up we got in line for the Christmas Carol hayrides. Sounds silly but it really was fun. Then we cooked supper and Santa visited each campsite with gifts for the kids. Off to the park they went and then soon after it was time for bed. Prizes were awarded to the best decorated campsite. My cousin and I sat up talking while our hubbies fell asleep in the recliner chairs in front of the fire. Real party animals!

Sunday morning came too fast. We enjoyed a nice breakfast and said our goodbyes as we journeyed our separate ways back home. I loved it because we kinda just did whatever came up there was no agenda or set expectations. It was especially nice for Alayna to have a couple girls to play with.

Another fun weekend with family - there is nothing else like it!!!!