Trip to Turner Mtn.

Jim's folks live about an hour and a half from us. We wish it were closer, so we could see them more often. But the trips we do make to Turner Mountain are always memorable occasions... today we were celebrating Nicholas and his family being home. They will be spending then next two weeks with Larry and Judy before heading on to their new digs in Virgina.

The MOST memorable are Judy's fresh from the farm home cooked meals! She insists it's only a simple meal, but there is NOTHING simple about any of it to us! We woman folk help out a little, but Judy always has everything more than under control!

Adorable new baby Tyler making the rounds with all of admiring relatives... this is one of his two Aunt Julies!

We all sit in wonder at how much temping food there always is and how incredible it all tastes! Today was no exception, and for that we were all very grateful as we smiled, sampling it all... filling out hungry tummies with baked ham, cheesy potatoes, sweet corn, yams, hot rolls, jello salad, and Nick's favorite made from scratch brownies for dessert! (hungry yet??)

Even the kid's table is quiet as those little mouths enjoy some good old fashioned viddles!

And when we just couldn't eat another bite, the Turner men showed their usual helpfulness by clearing the table, helping wash dishes and putting things away.

We Turner women are the luckiest on the planet!!

Trevor and Addi finding that Turner Mountain has all sorts of fun things to explore! Caterpillars and lady bugs are SO fascinating!

Addi takes a spin on the tree swing while McKenzie, Alyssa and Trevor patiently wait their turn.

As per tradition, the Turner men folk headed out to do a little pheasant hunting today as well. Philip's son, Zachary, would be getting a taste of what it's like to accompany the MAN CLAN through the corn fields of Montgomery County, Iowa. It was a fantastically warm day for November in Iowa a toasty 70 degrees is almost unheard of this time of year here, so the warm clothes didn't last long! (pictured above, Phil, Nick, Zach, Jim and Tim)

The hunting expedition was a bust, so it was time to sharpen a few skills with a little target practice. Philip looks on as Zach holds and aims his rifle.
Nick releases a skeet as Jim takes aim - and HITS it!

Ahhh, what a way to end the perfect day... a nap!! Grandma Judy holding little Tyler as he snoozes.

Nick's wife, Kim, also has some great pics and stories on her blog from our fun day at Turner Mountain. Check it out!

Thanks, Larry and Judy for another wonderful day! We had such a great time visiting with everyone - it's always so hard to say goodbye, but we'll be back again next weekend!! Whooo hooo! Stay tuned for more exciting adventures on Turner Mountain!