Family Vacation 2015: Branson

We tried to caravan down Branson on Sunday, only got lost once and had to stop a few times.  Gracie stood most of the time in the car, but otherwise rode well, getting lots of snuggles from the kids.  We went straight to the lakehouse and fell in love with it immediately.  Couldn't wait to spend time on the deck reading and in the sunroom enjoying my morning coffee.

The first day, we went to Dogwood Canyon.  It was absolutely beautiful and would definitely go back!  Next time we'd ride bikes and possibly horses too.  We spent the whole morning there, walking nearly 4 miles.

On Tuesday the Groats and Hamiltons went to the Titanic museum.  It was a good experience and whoever thought of the customers "becoming" a person that rode the Titanic was a genius!  Lots to read and look at as you walked through, especially loved the staircase that made me feel like I was in the movie.

Wednesday was our lake day.  Matthew was a little nervous going to get the boat with Carter and driving it back to our house's dock to park it, but he did great!  Everyone came to our house for breakfast and then we were out on the boat by 9am.  We tubed and then went to a different side of the lake to a cove to swim.  We headed back to the house for lunch and then back out on the boat again.  The afternoon was absolutely wonderful!  The lake was nearly empty.  Everyone tubed again, swam, and just relaxed on the water.  Next time we'll definitely do 2 days on the lake, maybe one day get kayaks and jet skis....

Thursday, Mom offered to watch the kids at their timeshare while Matthew and I had a date day.  We went to another park to hike and had to have lunch at an Irish pub.  It was a beautiful day, slow, with no where to have to be or anything to get done.  Guinness tastes best that way, don't you think:)

Colyn - 10, Carter - 11, Kaelan - 12, Lanie - 9, Kaleigh - 10

Branson Scenic Railroad - first time the Hamilton family had ever ridden on a train

Reflecting back, I feel it was a wonderful vacation.  Relationships were strengthened, quality time was spent together, and amazing sights were seen and experienced.  We'll see what happens, might be back in 2 years:)