A LAND REMEMBERED

This February I read the kids the novel, A Land Remembered by Patrick D. Smith (who lives in Merritt Island, btw!) Uncle Frank knows him! There is a children's version of the story often read in the 4th grade complimenting Florida History in many schools. I read the kids the adult novel, changing some language and skipping over a few sections. This was one of THE BEST books I have ever read to them. I LOVED the character development, the themes of sacrifice, survival, commitment and love!  It was a great book that stimulated discussions regarding choices and their consequences. I laughed out loud, cried my eyes out (ugly cry!) and could not ever read just a chapter or two. I feel so blessed to be able to have shared this adventure with my kids! The book also made me ponder my own American habits of wasteful environmental consumption, as well as the way Native American Indians were and still are being treated. It made me feel connected to Florida's history and the families that have pioneered before me so that I may enjoy what I have now.
It just so happened that Uncle Frank and Aunt Sue invited us to the Florida Cattlemen's Exhibit that recently opened up in Gainesville. We took the Cale, Tom and our family down to the event. It was a great family day (even with the way I was feeling after the 12 mile run that day!) Aaron, Meggan and the boys met us there. Here are some pictures:

 Owen and Grandma on our famous FREEZING picnics!

 Tom making a sandwich

 Uncle Frank

 Buck & Tuck (not really)

 A Marshtackie Horse: Ishmael (not really his name either)

 I think this is so cute...his little head!

 Uncle Frank's Branding

 Cole has this amazing talent of looking like the offspring of whatever animal he is posing with!