Driving here and there

This bridge makes you feel like you go up and up until you drive into heaven. There are several Louisiana bridges that make me nervous and very happy that Ben is the one driving! It does eventually come down and the scenery is beautiful.
Don't remember which area we were in here, possibly the Atchafalaya Basin. These pictures don't show the beauty of the swamps- the trees, the moss, the water, the peaceful serenity just waiting for a pirouge or trolling boat where you can fish the day away.

So much of the time we were driving, I found myself lost in memories. That's where my Grandpa and Great-Uncles went fishing...that's where my Aunt Ouida was from...that's where my PawPaw and MawMaw lived...that's where I used to run around with my cousins...that's where...that's where...

New Orleans ArenaThe Louisiana Superdome- we're looking forward to being here Monday when the Saints beat the Patriots and become 11-0. Who Dhat?!

The Mississippi River Bridge at Baton Rouge. This bridge terrified me when I first learned to drive and it terrifies me still. I think it is because once we had to stop on the top for an accident, waiting and waiting for it to clear.

Off the side of the bridge, you can see the state capitol building, so stately and tall.

Catch a glimpse in the distance? There it is, you can almost hear the roar... Tigers, Tigers, Tigers!

Next one is our exit. Guess where we are headed now!

A grandparent's responsibilty, continue the spoiling!

Grandfather, are we there yet? How far is Chuck E. Cheese's? Waiting again- this time for pizza. There are no pizza pictures as it was devoured in record time.

Playing games, earning some tickets.

Off to Sonic for strawberry milkshakes. For all those tokens and all those tickets, Marshall only got 3 Tootsie Pops and he gave one to Mitsie. Thanks Marshall!

We get milkshakes now and cotton candy next? Oh yeah! Can I have rainbow cotton candy? It's my favorite. I know I've never had it but it's my favorite!

Pay attention Grandfather. You never know what they will say if you listen carefully enough!

Mitsie, it's cold out here. {Editor's note- thanks Aunt Dee for sharing your nickname for me with these and future grandchildren.}

Jordan's covered up and and Marshall's under the table trying to stay warm. Marin finished her milkshake so she is sitting in the warm car waiting for them to finish.

All too soon, it's time to return the children to their parents and we have to say goodbye. I hate saying goodbye but this time, I know that it won't be so long until we see them again. I am so grateful that Ben has family close to mine and shares the love of Louisiana that I do.

If they had a recycling program, I would be sorely tempted to move back but it makes my stomach hurt every time I throw away a bottle, can or plastic bag. Wake it people, time to take care of the land we love! Sorry, I will step off my soapbox now!

Time to go see Santa!

Driving again...this time from Sulphur to Baton Rouge. On our way to pick up the M & M's for some Christmas shopping, some Santa time, Chuck E. Cheese time and some spoiling time. Let's go get them!

After doing some covert Christmas shopping, we headed to the Mall of Louisiana to see Santa Claus. First stop, writing letters to Santa. Both were intent on writing their lists very carefully.

Time for Marshall to mail his letter. Watch out for falling snow!

Marin's turn to mail hers.

Next stop-the Naughty or Nice meter. Who was naughty? Who was nice? We were Grandfather. We were both nice!

See Grandfather...I told you it would say "Nice".

Look how cute they are. They were so patient waiting their turn to see Santa.

Santa, I'd like this and that and this and that.....

Look how precious. Everyone was full of smiles.

How can you look in that man's face and not believe in Santa? He was so patient with the kids and was genuinely interested in what they had to say.

Even Jordan was sweet enough to let me take his picture with Santa. They talked for several minutes while Santa learned all about Jordan's sweatshirt design.

Time to head to Chuck E. Cheese!

Turkey Day '09

Brownies, Breakfast of Champions. Gramma and Jordan sneak in a hug while the chicken is heating.

Jordan made the dumplings. They were so good!What's Thanksgiving dinner without Aunt Dee's seafood gumbo? We had chicken & dumplings, gumbo and the traditional fried turkey with all the fixin's including brown and serve rolls by Ben's request!Baby, please take my picture so I can show off this sunny and 70 degree Thanksgiving weather!

Aunt Dee was telling Ben some "Mitsie stories." Please Auntie, don't tell him everything!

Aunt Dee & Uncle Richard

Dad & Mom

Snoozing away in the sun! We have to store it up to take back to Oregon.

What Thanksgiving would be complete without some computer time? Buncha geeks!

Lunch and Pictures

Wednesday before Thanksgiving, we met at the new Santa Fe in Hammond for lunch before heading to Sears for pictures. Of course, there were plenty of pictures taken at the restaurant! EIGHT second ride!!!

Marin is deep in thought...what should I eat?

Say cheese!

No Grandfather...it's true...I really mean it!

Practicing their smiles. Say cheese!

Still waiting our turn, this time for the pictures to be processed. Everyone is still smiling, yippee!

Pictures are finished but we are still waiting. Uh-oh! Nerves are getting a little frayed.

Disclaimer: No children were actually harmed during this afternoon. All were returned safely and in one piece to their parents!

See...they are just fine.