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. 

A Busy Day Before Takeoff ✈️

Today has been full from the very start! This morning Mr. C and I headed over to the Memorial Express Lab in Lawton, Oklahoma for his lab work. It was our first time using this lab, and I have to say—it was super easy, quick, and stress-free. Plus, they had the cutest free heart-shaped stress balls. Of course, I snagged one for myself to use at work.

Afterward, we made a stop at one of my all-time favorites—Wayne’s Drive-In. We grabbed cokes (they really do have the best ones) and split an order of biscuits and gravy. A little treat before the day got busy. On the drive home, I was chatting away about my upcoming trip to Watford City, North Dakota. Tomorrow’s the big day! I’ll be flying out of Oklahoma City at 8:00 a.m., which means an early arrival at the airport—around 5:00 a.m. Yikes!

This is a mural that can be seem at the Wayne’s Dive Inn. Very colorful! 

Once home, I jumped right into finishing my packing. Honestly, I may have gone a little overboard. 😅 I’ll probably need to reevaluate my suitcase later and make sure everything matches. Of course, I’m also double-checking that all my devices are charged—including my backpack. Who would have thought years ago that a backpack would need charging? Technology keeps surprising me!

At 11:00, we headed over to Brody’s to see Landon and Sophie—I just had to get some hugs in before leaving. We’re also enjoying lunch with Brody and his crew (except Lane, since he’s in school). We ordered cheeseburgers and fries from Hop Stop here in Rush Springs.

It’s already been a full and productive day off, and I still have more to do. I’m making a list for Walmart in Williston, North Dakota, for when I land. I’ll be cooking at Trevor’s a few times, and I have fun meal ideas planned. We’ll do French bread pizzas one night—Kyndall will love helping with those! And I can’t wait to make cake waffles with her too. Cooking together in the kitchen is always special.

All in all, today has been busy, but my heart is full. Tomorrow the adventure begins!

Mr & Mrs Wheeler!

A Stormy Start, A Beautiful Wedding: Kayetlynn & Ethan’s Big Day

Saturday, September 20th was a day to remember—my niece Kayetlynn married Ethan at Blessed Oak Farm at 5 p.m. I arrived a little after 4 p.m., and the sky already looked a little uncertain. Lightning flashed, dark clouds gathered, and with the wedding planned outdoors, we all hoped the weather would hold off.

As I walked toward the reception area, I spotted family members, shared hugs, and caught up. We soon made our way down the hill toward the pasture where the ceremony was supposed to take place. That’s when the weather had other plans—strong winds picked up, big raindrops began to fall, and lightning lit up the sky. Before long, we were rushing back toward the reception building, making it inside just in time for the downpour.

But even with the sudden change of plans, Kayetlynn and Ethan’s wedding was nothing short of beautiful. They gracefully pivoted, moving the ceremony into the reception space, and it turned out absolutely perfect. The room had already been decorated with a western flair—turquoise, browns, reds, and yellows filled the flower arrangements, and tables were topped with turquoise plates, vases, and glowing floating candles. It felt warm, rustic, and full of love.

The food was equally special—walkin tacos, guacamole, and salsa lovingly made by Kayetlynn’s stepmom, Dana (my sister-in-law). Everything was delicious and added such a personal touch to the evening.

More than anything, the day was about family, celebration, and love. I was so happy to reunite with loved ones and to watch these two young people begin their life together. Even though the weather didn’t cooperate, it couldn’t dampen the joy in the room. Everyone came together, laughed, and cheered as Kayetlynn and Ethan said “I do.”

Grannie Karen and Jett. Jett is Thomas and Dana’s son. 

Candice (Kayetlynn’s mom) was her Maid of Honor. 

Thomas and her granddad Ted escorted the bride

RIGGSLEE daughter of Kirsten and Bryson

My two precious nieces along with my great niece.  I am so proud of these young ladies.  My heart is full of love for them.  Am excited to watch them achieve all their dreams.

Thomas and Dana. Dad and stepmom to Kayetlynn 

Kara and Dylan

Maisey and Grannie Karen

Maisey and I.  Kayetlynn’s sister

Laiken and Hadlee Kara and Dylan’s daughters.  My heart is full of love for my great nieces and nephews.  

A storm may have blown in, but it only made the day more memorable. The love between Caitlin and Ethan shined brighter than the lightning outside. 💕