Spring Break 2011 is underway

We pulled the kids from school at lunchtime on Friday. We wanted to get around Chicago before rush hour traffic hit. We also wanted to arrive at stop #1 in time for the kids to enjoy some water park time before bed. This water park was a small one, but it was enough for a good time on the first day of spring break. The other drawback, it is located in a dry county. Funny how they don't mention that on the website. Oh well, the kids were obviously not bothered by it.

Shipsehwana is located in the Amish area of Northeastern Illinois. I neglected to snap a picture of the 'Buggy Crossing' signs - can't believe I left the camera in the bag for that one. We did not do any of the tours, but seeing people around in their plain clothes led to some interesting conversations about people's beliefs and lifestyles. At dinner we were seated next to a large, multigenerational family. Their kids seemed as fascinated by our family as our kids were by theirs. I am sure having one child of a different race surely peaked their interest.

This morning we stopped at the General Store. It is one of the things "You Gotta See Before You're 12." This store was not completely authentic - yes, they carried everything - tools, clothing, luggage, food products, but it was also obviously set up for the tourists, with Amish dolls and 'authentic' Amish products. Oh well, it did give the kids an idea of what shopping was like in the days before malls and department stores.

We drove 7 hours today - including a lunch break and a bathroom break. The directions said 7 hours not including breaks, so I am sure that Bill was not completely observant of posted speed limits. Can't say that I actually expected him to be.

Tonight and tomorrow we are staying at the 7 springs resort southeast of Pittsburgh. It is not bad, although honestly, for the price I expected a better mattress and higher quality bedding - I think the thread count of the sheets is under 100. There is also a convention going on and there is a lot of noise from the hallways. I do hope we manage to get some sleep. Tomorrow morning we tour Falling Water and then we will spend the afternoon here at the resort - the kids want to swim and play mini-golf.