A Visit with our Canadian family

     This week, we thoroughly enjoyed our time with the Canadian side of our family.  Mark's parents drove down on Tuesday, arriving around 3:30 and are leaving before the sun comes up tomorrow (Saturday).  We had a jam-packed, fun-filled time with them, visiting the Biltmore House, Grandma, Marcus, and I going shopping, and Grandpa helping Mark on the route for two days.  They were captivated with Marcus and it didn't take him long to attach right back to them. 
     Tonight, we went out to eat to celebrate Mark's upcoming birthday.  Normally when they're in town, we eat at Outback.  Tonight, however, Grandpa decided he wanted to finally try the (wait for it...) Waffle House!  As we were putting Marcus in his car seat to head that way, Marcus screamed for his papa (which is what he says instead of Grandpa).  The five of us enjoyed our breakfast-type foods while an older gentleman put a quarter in the jukebox and played the Star Spangled Banner.  it was actually quite funny, but the food was incredible!  After filling our tummies, it was still light outside, so we went to Lake Louise.  Grandpa and Marcus enjoyed the swings, slides, and ducks while the rest of us enjoyed watching them together.  We came back to the house for one more hour of just hanging out so Grandma and Grandpa could savor every last Marcus drop.
     We can't say enough about our Canadian family and how precious they are to us.  We not only pray for a safe arrival back home tomorrow, but we lovingly anticipate the next time we get to see them again. 

My dad drove to town and brought Mark's new string trimmer (aka-his birthday present from the 4 of us).

Our sweet little bulldog

Showing of his cuteness (and his UNCA shirt)

Grandpa and sweet Marcus

Marcus was giggling with pure JOY!

Walking by the lake, under the willow tree

Climbing like a big boy

The trees were in full bloom and were BEAUTIFUL

Grandma and her baby boy

A man, his son, and his father

Grandma enjoyed the cuddles.  Marcus enjoyed the book.