A taste of Americana

Back in the 1960's and 70's life was so different, and just a little bit slower. A time when kids could go outside and play until after dark without a fear. We all knew our neighbors, and we always smiled and waved when we passed them on the sidewalk. Or carried on conversations over a fence. The neighborhood was a part of a bigger family.

We also had drive in's, and on a Friday or Saturday night Dad and Mom would pack us up with snacks, Jammie's, and pillows and off we went. To exciting adventures on the big screen. As soon as Dad found the perfect spot to park, and put the speaker on the window, off we would go to the playground up front under the screen. Usually we would last through the first movie, then conk out for the second, which I am sure made it much better for Dad and Mom.

Last night, we enjoyed that same tradition. My sis-in-law Gigi called up and asked us to go with them to the drive in. It was so much fun, and still exciting as I prepped for the occasion. We packed snacks, blankets, Jammie's and chairs just like the old days. The playground equipment I played on is now gone, but all our kids had a great time playing, and we had a great time chatting while we waited for the movies to start. Now days, you listen on your car radio instead of a crackly speaker, and yes, we had a better time watching the second feature when the kids fell asleep and were finally quiet enough for us to hear something. What a wonderful time. It brings a bit of childhood back.

Kate's Prom

It's prom time again. You can tell when you and your hubby go out for dinner and there they are at the restaurant, teens dressed to the nines looking young, happy and beautiful. It reminds you of your own prom many, many years before and makes you smile.
Last Saturday was Kate's turn. She had her coral dress, a great guy and many smiles to be spread around. Derek came and in true fashion, Kate made him wait at least 30 minutes to finish getting ready, but when she was done and came down those stairs, she was beautiful!
They went to dinner with friends then on to Purdue where the prom was held. Of course the night was stars and magic and Kate came home all smiles.
Another right of passage has come and gone. Now we just have to make it through graduation next month.

Happy Birthday Kate!

Kate had her 18th birthday last week! I have been trying to find the pictures to post them, but can't so I'm not going to wait any longer.
Sunday was the big day, so we had a family bar-b-q. Kate's boyfriend and some friends were also here so we had a great time.
I made a cake that looked like a big 18. She loved it, and it was quickly devoured.

A Day at the Speedway

I had the coolest parents on earth growing up. Dad and Mom would take us out of school for the day and head down to the track. For those who are non-Hoosiers, that means the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Dad knew someone who raced cars so we would get passes into pit row and the garages. It was so great to see the cars and drivers up close and personal.

This year, Lee and Spencer went down with my Dad, brother and his son Logan. Of course we had to take Spencer out of school, but hey, that will give all the other kids a chance to catch up. They had a great time. Spencer loved watching the cars practice and all the activities. He was all smiles as he brought his coloring book and crayons home to show me.

Spencer and Logan in front of the fountain.

The McDonalds car. Pretty good picture for a car going 200 mph taken by a 6 year old.