Cowpens

Way back at the beginning of the summer when we were camping with the Currys, Ryder picked up a brochure on Cowpens. This is the site of an important battle in the American Revolution located near Gaffney, SC. (read "middle of nowhere") Well all it took was that one brochure and Ryder was hooked. We heard all about Cowpens over our camping trip, play practices, dinners together, church...you name it, he was mentioning it. I love that about him. He is persistent and doesn't give up easily! This trait will one day be an amazing gift that God will use to glorify His kingdom and bring people to Him.

So fast forward to yesterday, Ryder's birthday. This little history nut wanted to visit Cowpens with his best buds so off we went. Patrick took the day off and Ashley, Jonathan and Caroline joined in as well. Our first call to action was completing the Junior Ranger workbook which Anna thought was amazing. She wants to do more! We also watched a hilariously reenacted film about the battle. Let's just say it was quite dramatic. Ryder has a National Park passport and has been working to collect stamps or cancellations as well as earn Jr. Ranger badges.

After some museum time, we headed out for the one mile loop trail on the battle field. They had plaques along the way that shared information and the kids continued to complete the workbook. When they were all done they could earn their badge and certificate. The park ranger asked a ton of questions which was fun, but also we were starving! So they said their oath and off we went to a picnic lunch.

After getting some food in these bellies, it didn't take long for the kids to start up some imaginary play in the field and surrounding woods. Anna built a fort, the boys built bayonets and off they went to engage in a battle with each other. Even with cake and presents interrupting, they must have played for a couple of hours before we had to head home. Love it!

Patrick left for TN from Cowpens. He's visiting John, Jessi and crew who are over from England. The girls and I wanted to go, but we have a trip to VA to see DC friends and just couldn't work it out between packing, driving, getting sufficient rest, etc. So we headed back home in the Powell van and will prep for our trip.

Cowpens was fun and memorable. I'm glad we could go, but I'm even more glad we could celebrate this awesome, little dude who makes me smile and sucks us into his passions. Happy Birthday Ryder!