Family Vacation

Based on our past experiences with vacations, we debated for quite some time whether or not to take one this year. After much thought, we decided to go for it! However, given the past trips, we did consider our lessons learned - use reputable hotels, don't travel too far with little ones (especially accross multiple time zones), and don't stay too long. The end result? Our family went to Branson this past Sunday through Wednesday! We had such an awesome trip! it was the perfect distance, there were lots of great activities, and the length of the trip was just right.

Seeing Cooper enjoy this trip gave us a small preview of what is to come. Miles still had a hard time here and there, but we have hope!! We pulled into our hotel parking lot to find our room, and Miles started saying, "home." (Translation - "I want to go home!") He repeated that several times throughout the trip.


On Sunday we drove to Branson and hit the Outlet Mall. We couldn't check in until 3:00 p.m., so the boys missed their nap. They did so well considering! We hit the motel pool that afternoon, and settled in for the night.

On Monday, we headed to Silver Dollar City. Cooper was so brave! We rode the elephant ride twice and the swinging boat once.







Nate and the boys enjoyed the ball area - shooting balls out of large guns.

Monday night we went to the Landing to eat and shop a little more. Even though he had a nap that day, Miles would NOT smile for a picture. No way.

On Tuesday we headed to White Water for the morning. Again, Cooper loved it! Miles struggled a bit, but enjoyed some parts, too. That afternoon, when we went home for naps, I had one of my favorite moments of the entire trip. Miles was having trouble falling asleep for nap, and there were some noises in the hotel. After one noise, I went in to check on Miles. After reassuring him, Cooper said, "It's okay Miles. Don't worry, Mom, I'll stay with Miles until he falls asleep." And then to Miles, "Miles - do you want to play some night time games?" Cooper didn't fall asleep for a nap that day, but when he slipped out of Miles room, he said, "He's asleep, Mom." I caught him going into Miles' room to check on him several times that afternoon. So sweet!

Tuesday night we headed to Dolly Parton's show, The Dixie Stampede. We were only able to get 2 tickets, so Cooper and Miles had to stay on our laps the entire time. Once again, Cooper did awesome! He was very entertained by the show, and was a great chair buddy! Miles, on the other hand, struggled to stay focused. As soon as the food was gone, so was Miles. :) We went to the bathroom twice, and then he spent some time under the table by my feet. (While this would normally be a no-no and completely gross me out, I let it go so I could enjoy the show!) Here we are after the show with the main host's beautiful Belgian horse. What a fun show!

Overall we had a VERY fun time in Branson! I am thankful that Cooper had so much fun and was such a delight! We have hope that Bethell Family Vacations will continue to improve as we learn and grow as a family!