Making Waves & Memories in Watford City Nd

There’s nothing quite like starting the day with family — and a hearty breakfast! This morning in Watford City, North Dakota, I woke up to the best kind of love: sweet snuggles from my baby grandson, Liam. While Melissa whipped up breakfast burritos filled with potatoes, smoked sausage, red peppers, and plenty of gooey cheese, I soaked up every precious minute of family time.

After breakfast, we got ready to spend the afternoon at the Rupp Writer’s Center, home to an amazing Aquatic Center that’s perfect for all ages. I was honestly just as excited as the kids! The facility has six swimming lanes, a splash pad for toddlers, a large swim area, a lazy river, and — best of all — a big water slide.

And guess what? I actually went down the slide several times! I surprised myself, but it was so much fun. We floated around the lazy river more times than I could count, laughing and soaking in every moment together. Sharing that experience with Kendall made it even more special. It reminded me how wonderful it feels to just let go and have fun.

As we were leaving the center, we passed the hockey arenas — there are two of them — and I noticed a neat statue outside. I had to stop and take a look. It’s those little unexpected finds that make exploring new places even better.

Later, we took a scenic drive to pick up Trevor’s clothes from the doghouse, where he keeps them while working on the rig. North Dakota’s countryside stretched out in all directions — peaceful, wide open, and beautiful in its simplicity.

Back at home, we ended the day with homemade pizzas. Kendall and I loaded ours with extra cheese and pepperoni, while Trevor and Melissa made theirs just the way they like it. For dessert, we had old-fashioned Coke floats, which were the perfect sweet ending to a perfect day.

From swimming and laughter to family dinners and scenic drives, today was all about making memories — the kind you hold onto and smile about later.

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Food complication for September

 

Oktoberfest Fun, Family Memories & Sweet Treats in Watford City 🍂🎶

I’ve been planning on going to Oktoberfest for about a month now. The ad had popped up on my Facebook page, and I immediately sent it to Mellissa. She was just as excited as I was, so we marked the date. 

It was a beautiful Saturday here in Watford City, North Dakota. Mellissa and Kyndall were brave enough to wear shorts, while I stuck with my comfy capris. The morning started early—Kyndall and I spent time coloring together. She picked out my coloring pages, which I thought was so sweet. Then we played on the tablet and laptop. I sometimes forget how much energy a six-year-old has, but she kept me busy and smiling!

The Oktoberfest event ran from 2–7 p.m., and we got there right on time. Kyndall made a beeline for the bounce houses, especially the long obstacle course one with a climbing wall and a slide. Since we arrived right at the start, the crowds hadn’t built up yet, which gave her plenty of room to play.

Of course, one of my favorite parts was finally getting to roast a marshmallow for a s’more over the fire pit. I’ve been craving one for ages, and it felt a little bittersweet. Why hadn’t I taken time to make my own sooner? S’mores bring back so many memories of my childhood—sticky fingers, melted chocolate, and laughter around a fire. This one tasted just as sweet.

The event had such a fun, festive atmosphere. Decorations of light blue and white banners and tablecloths set the scene, and along one wall, they created a photo spot with hay bales and beer kegs. Naturally, we took plenty of pictures! A live band played polka music, and I even recognized some of the songs. Out back, they hosted adult races—including a keg relay race—which brought plenty of laughs.

After a bit, we left to pick up Trevor’s laundry at Sudz and then headed to The Little Mexico restaurant for lunch. The food was delicious, and the portions were huge. Trevor ordered the steak quesadilla with rice and beans. Mellissa and I both had the birria tacos, but hers came with rice and beans, while mine came with loaded chicken fries. We were both surprised that the beans weren’t refried beans like we expected. Kyndall happily enjoyed shredded chicken and french fries. Needless to say, we had leftovers to take home!

After lunch, we headed back to the Rough Rider Center for more Oktoberfest fun. Kyndall went right back to the bounce houses, Trevor and Mellissa played several rounds of cornhole, and we all enjoyed the lively music drifting through the air. It was nice to see everyone relaxed and enjoying themselves.

The only thing I wished was different? It would have been wonderful if there had been a German food truck so we could’ve grabbed lunch right there at the event. But even so, it was a positive experience overall, and I’m glad we went and spent several hours soaking it in.

Being with Trevor and his family this week makes my soul happy. Watching Kyndall run carefree, laugh, and play—it’s the kind of joy that lingers with you. Oktoberfest was definitely a highlight of my trip to Watford City, and I love that this community has events like this throughout the year.

By the time we got home, this Nana was completely worn out and took a nap. But my day didn’t end there—Kyndall and I headed into the kitchen later to make cake waffles and little cupcakes. We decorated them with icing and sprinkles—Mellissa worked on the cupcakes while I used the heart-shaped waffle maker. Later, Kyndall and I curled up with leftover sushi and Netflix while Mellissa, Trevor, and baby Liam relaxed in their room.

The perfect ending to a full, happy Saturday: family, food, and sweet memories. ❤️

Beware picture overload! Trevor,Mellissa and Liam headed into the event center. Had to take a few pictures of the beer and wine trucks.

Loved seeing this truck. 

Playing jenga with the family. 

Kyndall climbing the rock wall. 

She is so happy to be out and about with Nana. Kyndall is absolutely beautiful.  Her personality shines so bright. 

We made these last time I was here as well. Kyndall enjoys helping in the kitchen. She was a wizard at cracking the eggs.🥚 

 

My journey to see Trevor’s Family!

Am many of yall know I have really been into murals. Loved seeing all the art on the walls at the Oklahoma Will Rodger’s Airport. 

Today’s travel felt like an adventure from start to finish. I got up at 3:30 AM, left by 4:00 AM, and headed to the airport. Glad I left early — Oklahoma City’s airport was unexpectedly packed, and it took ages to snag a parking spot in the garage. The last time I flew (in February), I don’t remember things being nearly as crowded.

Going through security turned out to be surprisingly smooth. I didn’t have to take off my shoes, pull out my gadgets, or unpack my liquids. That was a pleasant surprise! Then I wandered down to my gate — unfortunately, mine was all the way at the end of the terminal. Definitely not as easy to reach as some of the more central ones.

Boarding began around 7:30 AM, and my flight was at 8:00 AM, bound for Denver International Airport (DEN). I was excited to pass through Denver again because it’s been years since I’ve been there. Two of the art installations I was hoping to catch were:

• “It’s Not What You Take, It’s What You Bring Back” by Thomas “Detour” Evans — this lively sculpture, hanging in Concourse B, is made from 183 upcycled luggage pieces donated by Colorado residents. It forms a looping, dynamic shape that evokes the movement of flights and transitions, while its colors echo the hues of sunrise and sunset. 
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• “Experimental Aviation” by Patty Ortiz — this installation features 140 small airplane forms suspended from the ceiling and welcomes travelers arriving via the train platform into the Jeppesen Terminal.  

While waiting for my next flight, I grabbed a taco for lunch. Around me, I saw three different people misplace their paper tickets and get frantic. I felt some relief that I had my ticket on my phone (even though I’d been hesitant about relying fully on tech). That decision probably saved me from a panicked moment or two.

Finally, boarding time came, and I headed off to my final leg — Williston, North Dakota. My scheduled arrival was 2:15 PM, but we actually landed a few minutes early, which was nice. At the terminal in Williston, a crew was filming something about the airport — a fun surprise.

My family — Mellisa, Kyndall, and little Liam — were waiting for me. We were all hungry, so we headed to Qboda’s (a place similar to Chipotle). My bowl was a hit: lime, cilantro, white rice, pinto beans, chicken, corn, pico de gallo, and guacamole. Delicious. After lunch, there was about an hour drive to their home.

Once we got home, I finally got to hold Liam and catch up with Kyndall and Mellissa. I Trevor got home from work around 6:30 pm. Seeing everyone together made the whole day worth it. Despite the early wake-up, crowded airports, and long journey, it was a great travel experience — full of anticipation, art, and, best of all, reunion.

There’s nothing like a big ole hug from Kyndall Mae! My heart is full with love.