I am the only one! :)

My Married Name: Alysson Bernards

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My Maiden Name: Alysson Gibbs

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The Long Drive - Lincoln to Boise and Home Again - Summer 2008

Part 1 : Nebraska & Wyoming

July 31, 2008 - The Archway Museum - Kearney, Nebraska

The kids, my Mom and I left Lincoln early on July 31st to begin our long trip to Boise, Idaho for the Gibbs Family Reunion. Mark stayed behind to work and would meet up with us later in Boise. We decided to take our time and see a few sites along the way. Our first stop was Kearney, Nebraska and the Archway Museum. The Museum was actually built right over I-80. Here are a few fun pictures:

Just outside the museum is this big statue. The kids thought it was really cool. We probably spent about 20 minutes playing around it.

As you walk through the museum you have to wear head phones if you want to learn anything as it is a self-guided tour. Sherman loved his and listened to the whole presentation.
The museum was all about the history of those who crossed the plains to settle the west. It featured big sections on those who followed both the Oregon and Mormon Trails. It was quite interesting and I would recommend it to anyone who needs a break while travelling across country on I-80.

August 1, 2008 - Cheyenne to Rock Springs, Wyoming

The first night we made it to Cheyenne, Wyoming. The next morning we explored Cheyenne. We spent some time downtown near the old train station and even spent some time in the train museum there. Outside were these large painted boots. The kids were fascinated by them.

There was also this little train which Sherman really liked. Notice the yellow "Cheyenne, WY" sticker on Sherman's shirt. They gave that to him at the train museum and he wore it proudly all day long.

Our next stop was at Holliday Park to see the "Big Boy Steam Engine" - The world's largest steam locomotive that was ever built. It was quite an awesome sight and was so big, that I really couldn't get a good picture of the entire engine. If you haven't guessed - one of Sherman's favorite things right now is trains. Both he and Eliza had a great time running around the display and throwing the rocks around it.

Still wearing the yellow sticker! :)

Next we visited the Wyoming State Capitol Building. It was an interesting building, but unfortunately most of the inside was under renovation so we did not get to see much of the art work because it was covered. The statues on the grounds were quite impressive though.

We had hoped to have lunch and see a few more things in Cheyenne, but by the time we strolled back to the car, Eliza was out cold. She didn't even flinch when I moved her from the stroller into her car seat. So Sherman, Grandma and I ate lunch in the car on the road and we headed to our next hotel in Rock Springs. It was probably a good decision since they had a pool and Sherman was quite excited by it.

Grandma and Sherman had a great time in the pool, while Eliza and I sat and watched. Eliza liked her life jacket, but she wouldn't let me put her near the pool. She screamed when I tried to put her feet in. Oh well, at least she looked cute, right?!

A Day Out With Thomas - July 25, 2008

A little boy's dream come true... We were very excited when we heard that Thomas the Tank Engine was coming to Fremont, NE. It was only about an hour drive and thanks to Grandma Gibbs, we spent a day with him. Sherman was so excited and just loved everything. Eliza was a bit hesitant at first, but even she had a good time after a while.


Our first stop was pictures with Thomas! Sherman was so excited that he kept turning around to look at Thomas. Soo..., we went back for a second try at it and finally got a good picture.




Sherman was also very excited to meet Sir Topham hat. I think he was about the only kid that didn't cry or have to have Mom go up with him. :)

Here we all are, enjoying the air conditioned coach!

Sherman and Eliza with Grandma Gibbs on the train ride.

Thanks Grandma Gibbs!

Sherman was so excited about riding in Thomas' coaches.

He stared out the window most of the ride.

Here is the Train Conductor punching Sherman's ticket.

Next was the Thomas bouncy slide - Sherman loved it.

He must have gone down the slide 15 times.

Eliza was not so brave, but she did bounce on the bottom of it once or twice.

String Beans Concert - June 10, 2008

As you can tell, I'm doing a bit of catch up here. The last two and a half months have been crazy between vacations, helping friends move, sick children, sick me, Internet difficulties, and the list could go on... However, I am hoping to turn over a new leaf and begin posting on a regular basis again.

In June, the String Beans - a local children's band, performed in the library parking lot. Sherman wasn't quite sure what to think at first, but Eliza had a blast. She is quite the little dancer. They provided flattened cardboard boxes for the kids to sit on in the parking lot - I thought that was a great idea!

Sharing a box and enjoying the music!

Our little mover and shaker!

Payne Family Visit - July 19, 2008

Shortly after our visit from the Ward Family, we had a surprise visit from Ken and Julie Payne and Family. Mark, Jesse and Ken were roommates and best friends in college and high school. We enjoyed their quick visit and hope they will come again soon! Here is Mark, Ken and all the kids.