We Closed!!
And the property is ours. So we went camping on Thursday, Friday and Saturday night.
The driveway.
And I didn’t get any pictures of Thursday night because we arrived at 4pm and spent the next 3 hours setting up tents and starting a fire. But here are the following days in almost no particular order.
Friday morning we were greeted with fog rising off the creek. It was wonderful.
Looking up the Jack’s Fork.
Around the campfire.
We all enjoyed the cozy warmth. Nights got down to 50 degrees. Not bad.
Jenna being super big sister.
Breakfast around the fire. I’m not sure why Jeff put green leaves in the fire. He likes smoke?
Donut likes the fire…and granola bars! You can see Sara finally resting.
As things warmed up we set up our stations by the creek and put suits on. The weather was marvelous with a slight breeze and clouds floating by. It really is as beautiful and idyllic as you are imagining it is.
We had to eat lunch first. Bratwurst on the grill. Does it get any better than that?
They are almost done.
It does get better!! Bratwurst from the grill by the water. Wonderful!
Everyone is pleased with lunch.
Jenna played us songs around the fire.
Jeff cut down a tree for fire wood.
Timber.
And the men folk worked on that tree during several sessions in between swimming and exploring.
Hard work.
And they were still working on it into the night.
But there were more important things. Like catching fish.
And crawdads.
And storing the small fish to use later for bait.
And floating.
Floating in the chute Jeff made by piling rocks into a dam to direct the water into one opening and shoveling the rocks out of the chute to make it deep enough to float.
But you still have to hold your rear end up.
And there was tandem floating.
But sometimes it was disastrous.
Everyone always came out unscathed although a bit smarter for the ride.
Even on vacation people can be naughty. And sometimes the consequences are very sad.
Even Jeff floated. With help.
But then he splashed. Lina was not willing to play when the splashing escalated.
And float racing. Flip-flops on your feet make good paddles.
Uh oh, more tandem floating.
The outcome was always the same.
But don’t you admire their perseverance?
Sometimes you just give in and realize you are a single float type person.
But funny, the 5 year olds figured out a workable solution. They were the professional tandem floaters. Maybe it’s a twin thing? Amber and Angela?
Sometimes it is fun to get a ride as well.
Up stream is where Jeff hung the clothes line. I felt very pioneerish washing clothes in the creek.
My lookout when I wasn’t taking pictures. It really was a charmed life. I even got some crocheting in.
Jeff relaxing.
Is it a bald head thing or a 4 year old thing with the chair?
Sara swam until she tore her feet up so badly on the rock bottom that she decided to sit out a few rounds.
There was plenty to explore on the bank as well.
And rocks.
And physics.
Big rock collections.
Small rock collections.
Rock houses for froggies.
And seeds that float in the water.
Plenty of time for splashing.
And laughing.
But is splashing with a stick more fun?
I don’t know, but it is also pretty fun!
And of course the frogs.
Is that the same frog?
They all look alike.
Then we trekked down to the “swimming hole” by the bridge. There is a rock ledge and the water is quite deep here.
Donut helped me take pictures.
The little kids stayed on the shore.
The big kids played with Jeff.
So graceful.
Woo hoo!
Splash.
Hold on tight.
Such form.
And then Sunday morning it was time to start packing it in. There was a potential storm rolling in. It was sad to go.
So sad. Donut screamed as we pulled away.
While we were there we posted no trespassing signs but one of the locals staked the place out and pulled down our driveway as soon as we pulled away. He had hinted about having permission to camp there and we hinted about it being private property but I don’t think it really matters to him anyway. We had a chance to talk to some other folk that live around there and the local drunk was with them. He said “Get used to seeing me around in my camo and dune buggie. I drive these river banks all the time.” Or something to that effect. They all thought themselves very charming I suppose. We were boggled by the assumptions that these folks made about their right to be there just because they always had. It certainly is a different kind of thinking. One did say he is glad that “someone decent” bought the place. I can only imagine what that means to him.
We met a very nice neighbor who has been there 17 years and he explained the trouble he has had with the riff-raff. He described a strong fence and gate. That is in the works for us as well.
In other news the storm did come through and we drove right into it. That was cool. I’ve never seen such fascinating lightening!! And it did RAIN not just mist which was pleasant as well. :) Tonight we are getting more rain and I am enjoying it immensely. In my big house we will have a wrap around porch particular for viewing thunderstorms and playing on during the rain. What good is rain if you don’t get out and enjoy it?
Jenna and I went to the Spring Creek Tea Room today. Apparently it is the place to be because they were packed. The owners were beyond friendly and the food was great. Didn’t have a chance to get a picture Diane but I’ll take you there when you come to visit.
Jeff took the boys to Finley Park tonight to fish. Jacob caught a 3 inch fish. They threw it back. We will have to find a better spot. :)
We are now in the process of finding a contractor and consulting with the county to see whether our desire to build so close to the water is feasible. We have also begun research on local cabins and what amenities should be offered to be competitive in that arena. Well, I’m off to find some dinner and listen to the storm. Thanks for the continued prayers for our family and specifically for Jillie. I will be posting pictures of bugs and plants we saw at the property on my homestead blogger site later tonight.
Comments
Oct. 2, 2007 – Untitled Comment
Posted by Amber C.
Yes, it’s a twin thing. :) You wouldn’t believe how easy it is to do something with Angela, but impossible to do it with anyone else.
We used to get on a exercise bike one on each peddle and get it going and we could ride that thing for hours. :)
Playing together is more fun, working together is easier, and we’re perfectly balanced and know what the other one is doing, so we’re ready to do our part. It’s great being a twin. :)
Camping looked fun. Mom says she wouldn’t like it cause there’s no shower or bathroom, but I think it looked fun. I’d drive 3 hours to camp with you guys. :)
Oct. 2, 2007 – Cool
Posted by momachasity
Katie, I enjoyed these pictures so much!!!
I am excited to see you on homestead blogger as well!!
Prayers are going up for you guys on our end, especially Jill! :)
Love,
Chas
Oct. 2, 2007 – Wonderful!!
Posted by Nicole
Thank you for sharing!! What fun! :o)
Oct. 2, 2007 – Untitled Comment
Posted by foxvalleyfamily
Katie,
That looks like a little piece of “Heaven on Earth!”
(…and you guys SO deserve it after the year you have had!)
I hope that you build many precious memories at your new ‘home’)
Blessings,
Michelle
Oct. 2, 2007 – Untitled Comment
Posted by leemomofthree
How wonderful! I am so excited for you guys. Looks like you had an awesome weekend. What a great taste of things to come.
Regarding building back a bit from the river, I HIGHLY recommend it. Missouri rivers have a bad habit of really rising during rain. And, it does rain there, I promise!
It will be interesting to hear what the contractor says.
I am so excited for you all. We will continue to pray!
In Him,
leemomofthree
Oct. 2, 2007 – Beautiful!
Posted by SusannahCox
Just beautiful! And the kids are so cute playing in the water. :) I hope you solve your trespassing problems. It’s a great idea, setting up cabins.
Oct. 2, 2007 – Untitled Comment
Posted by quietcajun
What great photos! YOu are a fantastic photographer. The action shots are amazing. I really like photos where you can see splashes of water clearly! Some of these (most of them actually) are frameable!!!
Oct. 3, 2007 – Fun
Posted by Angela C.
That looks so fun! I wish I could have been there. :) I agree with Amber. It is definitely a twin thing. :)
Oct. 3, 2007 – Awesome stuff!
Posted by ChristsInstrument
Great pics, and I can’t stress what a lovely spot you’ve found.
Praying for everyone, especially Jillie.
God bless,
Sheila
Oct. 3, 2007 – Amazing
Posted by dustinsdreamer
Your property is absolutely beautiful! I’m so happy for you and your family and can’t wait to see how you settle it. :) Praying for everying, especially Jillie.
Oct. 3, 2007 – Untitled Comment
Posted by mountainmama
How exciting Katie!
Thought I’d chime in on the rental cabins (since we have B&B cabins here.)
You’ll need to first check with your county planning and zoning department to see that the current zoning permits transient accommodations. They may allow it as is, they may require that you apply for a conditional use permit, or they may require a zoning change. Since you appear to be so rural, the zoning probably has allowances in there that allow it.
You’ll need a business license and if you serve any food, you’ll be required to be inspected by the county department of environmental health and have a permit from them.
You’ll also need to collect hotel/motel tax (no idea what it is called in your state. In Georgia it was called “bed tax”, in California it is called “TOT” for Transient Occupancy Tax.) You may also be required to collect sales tax. So this will entail applying for permits with the county/state as well.
You can probably find out a lot of the details online, but a trip to the county offices will answer any other questions that come up.
For builders, have you tried any of the “build on your lot” places? Because they buy in such bulk, they can build for much less – but they can completely customize everything to your specifications. When we were researching in NE Georgia, we were only looking at around $45/square foot for construction with one of these companies – whereas with a local contractor, it was over $100/square foot.
Oct. 3, 2007 – Woohoo!!
Posted by Anonymous
Katie,
The new place is FABULOUS! I’m so excited for y’all.
Tried to email you but it bounced back. Could you drop me a line sometime? dana@tonyanddanalewis.com
Thanks!
Dana
Oct. 3, 2007 – Looks like Tom Sawyer could have lived there!
Posted by Grandma Heidi
Oh my! The kids look like they will really enjoy living on the banks of a body of water!! Who would want to stay in the house with all the fun things to do there?!
Oct. 3, 2007 – Untitled Comment
Posted by Ginger
Where do you buy those wonderful swimsuits??? Please tell me you got them online somewhere!
Love those modest cuties!
www.clarkchatter.blogspot.com
Oct. 3, 2007 – Untitled Comment
Posted by drewsfamilytx
I think you have found a piece of paradise!
And yes, good fence, good gate and a good dog (or two).
Oct. 3, 2007 – Looks beautiful!
Posted by debhmom3
What a great time! I cannot believe some people think they are still going to camp there after being informed it is private property! Get over it!
By the way, if you ever need a vet for your dog I HIGHLY recommend Ozark Veterinary Clinic. They are so awesome and totally kid friendly if you take your kids. When we went our dog’s shots my kids asked all kinds of questions and they answered each one with patience and a smile. When they asked about the light box where they view x-rays the vet actually went and got an actual x-ray of a dog about Millie’s size and showed the kids what Millie’s bones would look like. They really are great.
Debbie
www.humblebeforetheking.blogspot.com
Oct. 4, 2007 – Great pictures!!
Posted by Lacey
Amazing camping pictures! Looks like such an awesome trip! It is still mind boggling to me how you are able to handle the logistics of so many kids, especially while camping, but you make it look easy. (Well at least your blog makes it look easy. :)) The tandem floating is probably a twim thing but I gotta add that my (non twin) brother and I used to do the each of us on a pedal of an exercise bike thing too. I’ve never heard anyone else mention doing that before! lol good memories…
Oct. 4, 2007 – Adorable kids!
Posted by Shed Friend
With so much attention going to Jillian I hope Jolina doesn’t feel left out. I was noticing in your pics, just how gorgeous her smile is! I want to squeeze them all.
Love from my team to yours,
Christi_momo7
Oct. 5, 2007 – Pretty!!!!
Posted by hon rosie
Wow! The water looks so pretty and clear!
Lydia~ daughter of mobunny ;)
Oct. 6, 2007 – enjoying your blessing
Posted by Anonymous
What a beautiful piece of land and what a gorgeous family God has blessed you with. Glad that you had a wonderful camping trip and that the kids obviously were enjoying it (never saw such big smiles!)
be blessed and may God continue to strengthen you and Jillie!
Kimmie
mama to 6
one homemade and 5 adopted
http://overthemoonwithjoy.blogspot.com
Oct. 21, 2007 – What a Beautiful Homestead
Posted by blsdmom
Looks like a fun time was had by all. You’re making this city girl yearn more and more for a few acres and a creek. There’s no way children could ever get bored there. I look forward to watching the building of your homestead and hearing about your new adventures. As always, still praying for Jillie and the rest of your family.
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