Day 5
Today we left Minnesota around 8:30 and we hit South Dakota around 2:30. Again I don't think we have ever seen so many corn fields and wheat fields. Rebecca commented that she didn't understand why anyone thinks the world is being overpopulated and we would run out of room. As soon as we drove across the Missouri River into South Dakota the terrain changed into more hill country and was absolutely georgous. However, that only lasted a little while and then we were back to flat land except this time we could see for miles. We had stopped earlier in the day to have a picnic lunch in the 49 degree weather. (I don't think they know in MN and SD that it is suppose to be summer yet). However, as dinner approached we continued to look for somewhere to pick up a bite to eat. By about 6:30 we stopped for gas and decided just to eat in the gas station which turned out to be pretty good.
Finally, we started seeing rock formations that told us we were getting close to the badlands (our destination for the day). Once we got off the interstate and drove into the park we were able to see the awe inspiring view that was like a scene from a movie. Again what a wonderful reminder of the Great God we have that he created such a unique and beautiful sight. As we continued into the park the scenery of these jagged rocks continued to expand. The kids were immediately inspired to want to hike, rock climb and repel. I don't know that we can fullfil all their wishes but we will at least do some hiking tomorrow. Caleb had actually practiced rock climbing earlier today as he scaled the side of one of the SD visitor centers.
Today's challenge was a 9 hour drive in the car with few stops. The first half of the day went very well but the longer we drove the more interesting it got. We kept trying to come up with the Bible verse that says "Thou shalt zip your lips when your parents say so". If you know it please send it to us. We also learned that watching a movie in the car causes your child to forget how to read. So for future reference read first then watch a movie or just don't watch at all. There was at least once if not several times we tried to point out a beautiful scene by suggesting we turn off the video for just a minute and I am positive that we were deemed aliens from a different planet. Oh well God continues to teach us all lessons no matter how old we are.
Again thanks for the prayers. Tomorrow will be an entire day at badlands before heading over to Rapid City where we get to visit Mt Rushmore and Custer State Park.