Big MO

BJ and I had a great weekend in Missouri, aka Big MO. My dad is from a Steelville - a small country town about 2 hours southwest of St. Louis. I have fond memories of Big MO: summer vacation, family, horseback riding, canoe trips, Steak 'n Shake, fresh tomatoes from the garden... It’s been about 5 years since my last trip, so I was way overdue for a family visit.

My family (mom, dad, 2 sisters and BJ) and I stayed in an awesome cabin at Westover Farms - 500 acres of uninterrupted bliss complete with picturesque views, fresh spring water creeks and (catch & release) fly fishing. We started every morning with run - the perfect way to start the day. Living in DC, I don’t see many country roads or grass as far as the eye can see. It was refreshing and much needed.

Morning Run

We were busy - and I'm still exhausted after 4 days in Missouri: 
We went on a canoe trip. Ate sunflower seeds. Celebrated my grandma’s beautiful life. Went running. Ate watermelon, deer sausage, and fresh strawberries, radishes and tomatoes from my Uncle’s garden. Went horseback riding. Made smore’s over a bonfire. Drank beer. Went to a bbq every night. Played board games. Laughed A LOT. Had not 1, but 2 chocolate milkshakes from Steak 'n Shake. Went fly fishing. Went to super Wal-Mart. Had fun. Spent quality time as a family.

Can't go to Big MO without getting a chocolate milkshake from Steak 'n Shake

sister, sister

My family: BJ, me, KP, mom, dad, LP

The grandchildren (missing 3)

Smore's

It was the perfect family weekend - and a wonderful reminder of how great my grandma was & her dedication to family and love.