Yesterday we rode the 1880’s train. It was the first time we ever rode on a real steam engine. We watched them pour the water into the top. The train cars were beautiful. The ride was through the Black Hills National Forest on one side; (I unfortunately was sitting on the less scenic side :O). Trains are always fun and we had good snacks.
Our favorite part of the day was Fort Hayes Chuckwagon. The chuckwagon was located where they filmed “Dances with Wolves.” We had a good old-fashioned chuckwagon dinner served by cowboys and a great show after. Before dinner, we wandered around and watched a blacksmith, the penny smasher, and a rope maker.
Today we spent the day at Mt. Rushmore National Memorial. The kids earned their junior ranger badges and were quizzed extensively about American history from a park ranger (I must admit I was a little nervous.) Fortunately, they did well.
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| Bentley (before his bath) |
Right now, Ted’s grilling chicken, the kids are running around screaming, the dogs are digging holes (I’m a little concerned that they’re going to need baths), and I’m sitting at the picnic table . After dinner, we are finally going to get to have a campfire (this is the first western state that doesn’t have a fire ban) and s’mores.
Learn more about:
Mt. Rushmore:
http://www.nps.gov/moru/index.htm
The 1880 Train:
http://www.1880train.com/history.html
...and more photos from today are in Photo Gallery #2!!!
Howdy Partners Thought I would get into the western way after reading your blog today. It won't be long now before you,ll be coming Home. Hold Afew days open in Aug as Eric and Becky have rented houses on Lake Winipasauki ? spelling but ok phonetically. The dates are the 4th t0 10th. Great Lake for party boats Love Mom/Grandma
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