Thanksgiving in Abilene, Texas (Part I)

For Thanksgiving this year we went and visited Melanie's Family in Abilene, TX. Midway through the 18 hour drive he stopped off in Memphis, TN to visit Breck's namesake--Breck Rice (one of Brad's good friends he grew up with in Vanderhoof BC!). Above are the two Brecks'. 

This is Breck's beautiful family. We had a wonderful visit with them, and very much appreciated their hospitality and kindness!

Melanie and Eric took good care of us during our visit to Abilene and were the perfect hosts, even with their very active bunch!

Breck and his cousins Jaden and Corbin spent several hours making this cool underground club-house.

Melanie was raving about the clean, fancy interior.

I was amazed at the size of the cactus growing randomly on Melanie's little ranch. 

The kids had fun exploring the property

and looking at the animals.

Unfortunately, the boys couldn't go boating or fishing because the ponds were  almost dried-up from the drought going on in West Texas.

But they managed to find other forms of entertainment . . .

like attacking each other with cattails (which Breck, my city-slicker, called overgrown corn dogs). 

The girls enjoyed swinging on the large swing-set

and what would a ranch be without a tractor

or cockle-burs.  Merinda, my other city-slicker, was wondering what insect "jumped" on her jacket and wouldn't let go.

The little ranch did have quite the amenities, however, like a huge deck and hot-tub with surround sound. Here, Aspen is trying to decide if she wants to come and "swim" with Merinda and I.

Aubrey and Breck enjoyed soaking in the hot-tub as well--late at night with the music blaring, and a cup of hot cider!

One of the places we visited while in Abilene was Buffalo Gap. An amazing little town that shows what life was like during the early to mid 1900's.

Aubrey enjoying the old post-office

and Corbin talking on the old-time phone.

Aspen had more fun chasing the town's cat 

and getting every one to carry her around (who can resist that adorable face!).

Everyone had fun trying to balance on the old railroad tracks (there must be something therapeutic about it).

Brad, of course, had to turn the relaxing balancing into a competitive game of chicken.

I don't know what was more fun, the railroad tracks, or the old-fashion school yard. Kids of all ages had fun on the unique merry-go-round. 

And there is something nostalgic about teeter-totters that just take you back to your childhood (maybe it's the name). I have never seen so many smiles on so many faces at one time--who knew?!

We actually did go inside most of the buildings, however, I could of stayed all day and listen to every explanation on my hand-held listening device. But that's me--I am a little nerdy that way, and besides, it was the perfect day to soak up some West Texas sun!