We had a wonderful time on our trip. Chad treated me like a queen. We hiked for about 3 or 4 hours on Monday and then went to a Mexican restaurant for supper. 
Tuesday we hiked for a few more hours and then we went to the visitor center for the lock and dam. We got to see a barge lock through. The hiking was beautiful; we learned that the eagles come during the winter to feast at the bottom of the dam where the water doesn't freeze so I would like to go back with the children to see them this winter.
The children enjoyed their time with Grandpa, Grandma, and Drew. On Tuesday, Grandma took them to Tanners Orchard for their annual trip there; usually I am with them but missed out this year. Then this past Friday Dad and Mom and Drew picked them up at our house and took them back to Peoria for a field trip to the replica of the Nina (Christopher Columbus ship). I would have liked to see that but I have a lot of catch up to do at home, so it was best that I stay home from that field trip. I will try to get some pictures forwarded that I can post for you to see.
I feel a little guilty not blogging as much as I'd like, I'd like to keep everyone up to date with what's happening around here; but as I daily check the Queen Blogger's blog (Andrea) and realize she isn't keeping up so well these days I don't feel so bad. I understand Andrea, but I miss your blogs! I'll try to get more pictures uploaded soon!
Congratulations on the upcoming baby Andrea! We will be praying for you!
Here's some pictures we took on an 8 mile hike we went on this afternoon. This State Park has some well done trails and has various small canyons along the Illinois River.
