Benash Reunion 2016 at Platte River State Park

I can't rave enough about Platte River State Park. Well really all of the Nebraska State Parks are amazing. The cabins here are the cutest, always super clean, the park itself is gorgeous with trails for days and lots of activities to occupy your time. I was thrilled when we started having our yearly reunion at the park. Makes it a fun weekend with family and a mini getaway all in one.

 

I always take fresh flowers, a few candles, and a pretty blanket or pillow to spruce up the cabins a little. I love the simplicity of these cabins but a little color and the inviting glow of candles always makes it that much better.

 

 

The park never ceases to disappoint with gorgeous views. We always paddle boat because really why not? The adults and kids both love it.

 

The trails here are a big hit as well. They are so well kept and yet so rustic and you're in the midst of nature. This year we've had a lot of rain so we got lucky with a few extra pretty waterfalls as well. Motivation to get up and run was strong each morning when I had this to look forward to.

 

 

 

 

 

Of course the main purpose wasn't the trails or cute cabins, but time with family. We had a great time this year as it was one of the first years both my brothers came along. Lots of cousin bonding time!

 

 

 Card playing is always serious business at our reunions. So much so my dad couldn't even stop his game for a quick photo booth session.

For the first time ever I even brought a date. Shocking I know!!

BYOB to the Beach

 

Some days I'm not going to lie I would love to just roll up to the beach and have someone make cocktails for me all day long, bring me some water with fresh mint and lime. But I also realize that gets spendy fast and you are sometimes limited in your choices. The beauty of Vieaques is all beaches (other than the W where I get my fantasy of being waited on) are all BYOB. Pack that cooler full of whatever your heart desires and enjoy the beaches. Mostly its Medalla as its easy, cheap, and refreshing. This last trip I was on a wine quick and even kicked it up a notch one day with fancy champagne. This should probably become a new thing for me.

I love that the biggest decision of the day on the island is usually what hat should I wear, what suit, and what to pack for sips and snacks. Such a nice laid back simple life.

 

Prayers for Mali

 

First the horrific violence in Paris last week, now this attack in Mali. All of this has me praying for safety, for peace, and for those whose lives are shattered in an instant. I am so thankful we have others who are wiling to rush in and provide aide, assitance, and protection. Withouth brave men and women like them things would be even worse.

 

Mali holds a special place in my heart after visiting a few years ago for a mission trip. I am actually scheduled to return this January as the leader of a mission team that will head into the villages and innoculate their animals so they are free of parasites and disease while we also interact with the youth and families of these villages. Hopefully things will be safer by then, but in the meantime I will be praying for the missionaries and others in Mali for comfort and a sense of peace during this very scary time.

The God of my rock; in him will I trust: he is my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge, my savior; thou saved me from violence. I will call on the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies. 2 Samuel 22:3-4

Chasing Sunsets in Vieques

This place kills it every single day with the gorgeous sunsets! Mar Azul is by far the best place to watch the sunset in my opinion. But anyplace on the island offers up spectacular pieces of art in the sky.

One day we even got clever and had a fun picnic on the beach to cap off a wonderful day in the sun.

 

Even those days you don't make it quite in time for the full sunset, you're still granted gorgeous picture perfect views.

 

 

 

Missionary Trunk Show Thursday

 

 

 

Mission work is near and dear to my heart. I love serving God through these missions, expanding my views, and really opening my eyes to how different cultures are from my own. This is my second year of hosting a trunk show and I have a full house of goodies that I am so excited to share with you. All proceeds from this show go to support the Sutton's in Guatemala, the McCabe's in Mali, and my upcoming trip to Mali in January. Lots and lots of unique items from Guatemala, Mali, and even a few handmade items from my talented mother. Perfect Christmas gifts. Please stop by this Thursday anytime from 6-9 if you can.

 

 



Las Iguanas House Snaps

Slowly but surely Las Iguanas is looking more and more like ours. It's brighter, fun, and colorful. Very islandy. We now have hot water and A/C which is huge! I can't wait to share pictures of the newly remodeled bathroom and eventually kitchen. But for now a few snaps of the house from the last trip. Every time we add a new piece of art, a few more pillows, a rug, dishes... I am becoming an expert in taking the maximum amount imaginable in a checked bag and two carry ons lol

Thanks to my obsession with the Funky Beehive and now Sol Creation my closet is looking pretty also. Makes getting dressed so much fun every day, and I obviously am leaning towards a certain color scheme on the island. Where else can you get away with wearing white year round?

We need curtains and more art but it feels more and more like home every time we go. I love our funky new octopus dinnerware from Anthropology.

We are trying to do all local art. Just take our time and find fun pieces that we like. There are so many talented people on the island finding the art won't be a problem, more narrowing down to a few select pieces.