Bob Evan's Restaurants Rock Hard

The smell of Bob Evans sausage reminds me of my father.

Sunday's were my Dad's day to make breakfast and it was always the same thing; eggs, toast, sliced tomatoes and Bob Evans Sausage patties. This was back before they came pre-packaged in patty form, so he made them thick and fried they up crisp on the outside. Bob Evans restaurants are everywhere in the midwest, but there's not a single one in California. So when I get back, eating at Bob Evans is a must.


Of course, I secretly hope the smell of Bob Evans sausage reminds our kids of these cross country trips. And, for those asking for photos of the kids, we don't put up photos of our kids on the internet. At least not without disguises. So, here they are at Bob Evans. :)

Saying Goodbye To The Ferenzi Family

When we got out of bed, the Ferenzi's were already up waiting for us.

I speak for Rocky and all six of the kids when I say it was a blast! We miss you guys already. :)

The Ferenzi's Were Great Hosts

We're not looking forward to leaving tomorrow morning.

Rocky and Julie Ferenzi have become close friends without ever having "met" each other. Julie and I have become close friends as a result of Project Blogger. And now that we've spent real time together with our children, all 10 of them, we know for sure the friendship is more than just virtual.

Julie and her husband, Tony, put up with 8 guests like it was nothing. With just our two families it was 10 kids and 4 adults. But we got a bonus today as well. Tracy Etheridge, one of the writers on Mothers Fighting For Others came over to visit as well. That brought the count for the day to 15 kids and 6 adults. That's a lot of kids!

Julie and Tony... thank you for putting up with us!

Here is Julie, Tracy and Rocky.


And here is Julie and I.

Historic Downtown Plainfield, Illinois

Plainfield, Illinois

We Are Ready For A Break

We have arrived in Illinois. The kids have been great, but eveyone's a bit antsy from the three days in a row of constant driving. Rocky is slap happy. She does most of the driving. By the way, that is true not just of this trip, but of our entire relationship. :)

And the boys are restless. We arrive at Julie Ferenzi's house in less than two hours. Phew.

The grand and glorious Mississippi River.