Family Time in Boone

On Wednesday, July 21st, Ernie, Nick, Grandma, the dogs and I headed over to Boone for the first time in 7 months. The Dews and Guenthers arrived on Thursday and Friday. What a wonderful way to regenerate and be together before the stem cell transplant in August. We are so very thankful that Ernie felt he could make the trip, even though he must ride fully reclined as a passenger and would rather be driving!

The weather in the mountains was always at least 10 degrees cooler than at home, and the peace and quiet of the cabin was just so relaxing. We were able to bring Ernie's lift chair/recliner and he definitely enjoyed being out of the bedroom and in the family room and kitchen where all the action was! Many thanks to Nick, Jamie and Kyle for loading and unloading the chair.

We shared some wonderful meals, three of which the kids and Grandma ordered as take-out so Ernie could enjoy some of his favorite food in Boone. We spent alot of time at Valle Crucis park walking with the kids, grandkids and dogs, and just soaking in the majesty of the mountains surrounding us.

We watched a few movies, played a few games, swang on the front porch, enjoyed a nice campfire, laughed, and just savored being all together in one amazing place. Ernie and I constantly thank the Lord for our family and could never adequately express our love for each and every one of them. We know that in the tough days ahead, their love and support will see us through and we are so grateful we were able to spend such precious time together. I'll let the pictures say the rest...