That was a fun trip. We got to have dinner with Erik and Marc at Larsens, then had a day with John and Diane at the cabin in KS, time together in Branson (saw one show:The Ozark Mtn. Jubilee). J and D left early (late Sun. AM) to be of help to their close friends whose son had committed suicide). On Monday Al and D. showed us all around the area and different places where they had had time shares. It was fun to stop at a tiny local pie shop and all taste different "fried pies". we left for Iowa Tues. AM...it was great to stay in TLCC's "Haven 23" -their soliturde cabin for people in ministry to get away. It is really a 3 bedroom home that they have decorated very lovely. ..talk about "bed, bath, and beyond"...the top of the queen bed was the thickest pilow top I hae ever seen, and felt quite luxurious. The tub was a big jacuzzi tub -you know I love my hot bath in the eve. I'll include some pix.

Wed. eve Jane worked late, so we drove up to Emmetsburg to meet my cousin Neil and Pat fro dinner...always have a good time with them. For those of you who remember, Jennifer is married to another Dr. (he is ER and she is OB/gyn, and they have a baby girl about 10 mo. -live in Mpls. Amy still works in CO..has a live in guy and considering marriage.

Jane thoughtfully invited some of our old P.Cov. Bible study friends over Thursday eve. and we served an ice cream dessert, etc. (Ekstrand, Ericksons, Olsons, Ruth L.) -good folks.

Then Friday eve. we met Jane at work, and drove to Petersons for dinner...such a great family, and we really enjoyed seeing them in action with all 11 kids and the oldest son's fiancee. The one year old is a real cutie. -can sure see why Jane loves to be with them all.

During the daytimes Dad helped Scott a bit with figuring out camper expenses, etc. and did a few odd jobs around. I sorted and censored some books that had been donated and helped out a bit registering the ladies for a quilter's retreat. We didn't work very hard :)

Sat. AM we cleaned Haven 23 some and stopped a t Jane's before heading on home.We

got home early enough so I was able to get to church early to practice with the worship team and Dad was usher. It was a privilege to get invited to Clauson's for Swedish pancakes this noon, and then to Wildwood for dinner tonight as the cupboard is bare till I get to the store.

Emma and Timmy made a real hall of candy today - the merchants in town all open their doors to trick or treaters besides homes on the Sunday aft. before Halloween.

We enjoyed the trip..always good to be home. (although our bed feels really hard after that pillow top!) It was good to have a litle time with you , Jane, in your busy schedule..glad the whale turned out so well! Thankful the Casparis are on the mend and for your new contract, Gow.

have a good week everyone. our love, Mom