Greg had work in Canada. We decided to pack up a backpack for each of the children and make it a family 'vacation'. Greg mapped out a different route then what he would typically map out. He avoided major high ways and tacked on a few more miles and took us through the countryside. It was beautiful, the farm land was lush and the old farm houses and fields were gorgeous. I never realized how beautiful NY farm land really is. VT was stunning, the fresh air was exuberant.
We stopped in Rochester NY and stayed one night. The following day we drove two more hours to our first destination, Niagara Falls! Crossing the border was a breeze. It only took a few minutes to hand over our passports, have them handed back to us and they drive through the gate. I had originally anticipated a longer stop. Once we were across the children cheered with joy, "We're in Canada!"
I had seen the Falls many years ago when I was in the 8Th grade. Our class drove to Canada for our 8Th grade class trip... I don't think I appreciated it then the way I do now. Beautiful is the word that comes to mind, but really it isn't suitable. Niagara Falls is an amazing creation made by the hands of God. I enjoyed viewing the Falls, I enjoyed watching my children discover and learn.
After a day at the Falls we packed up and drove two more hours to Toronto, Canada. I didn't know that city was as large as it was, I didn't know that it would be as pretty as it was either. We checked into our hotel, unpacked and settled in for the night. After all Isaiah needed the rest because earlier in the day he came down with a sudden fever. By the time I tucked him in for the night his fever had gone up to 103 degrees. I had hoped that he wouldn't catch the fever going around, but he did and so did Caleb. The fever left as quickly as it came and by the 2ND day of having the fever Isaiah and Caleb felt well again.
Greg was working each day so it really wasn't much of a vacation for him. While he was away during the day the kids and I went off exploring. We found cute shops and yummy smelling restaurants. We stumbled across a market and bought fresh fruit and homemade chicken. Our last night in Toronto we took an electric car (I think that's what they are called) into China Town. It was similar to the China Town in Boston but a lot larger. We stopped at a restaurant that had smoked duck hanging in the window. Hannah was hesitant to eat there, but as soon as we opened the door the smell of duck and whatever else that was cooking kitchen captivated us. Just let me say that my dining experience at King Noodle was wonderful and very very tasty.
The following morning we woke up early, packed up the van and headed for home. Our 10hour drive turned into 12-13 hours. The kids needed many potty breaks. It was an uneventful trip home but, a wonderful family 'vacation' in all...
Dear God,
Thank you for the opportunity to travel as a family and thank you for the opportunity to discover and explore your creation. God, thank you for the family time and thank you for the flexibility Greg has with his job. I feel blessed to be able and go on these business trips with him and the children. God, you know how I dislike being away from Greg for long periods of time. Thank you for blessing us with this time together rather then us being apart. I am very grateful for all of these blessings! I love you!
In Jesus' name, Amen
