We left State Fair RV Park at 10:30 and traveled west to Madison. Traffic was light as we approached the rolling hills around Madison. The day was bright and sunny with temps in the low 80’s.
The cornfields and farms were a familiar, welcoming sight.
There were some new developments and companies that sprang up along this stretch of highway since we were here last in 2018. We pulled into Lake Farm Park Campground at 12:00 and disconnected the Jeep.
Our campsite #12 was empty from the previous night so we were able to set up right away. We pulled in and were all set up by 12:30 and had lunch.
We made a trip to Walmart for a few items for the picnic today. Auggie made himself comfortable outside in the shade.
Madison is known for its bike trails and the Capital City Trail that goes into town and connects with other trails runs right past the campground. It is well-used by walkers and bikers alike.
The entrance to the Lake Farm County Park is also right across the street.
Truck traffic and air traffic was pretty active during the afternoon going up and down the highway along the park and flying overhead. We must be in their flight path. We were hoping it would die off when evening came. Around 4:00, Bob’s brothers–John, Dave, Tim arrived with their spouses, Jenny and Jean. His sister, Sara, and her husband, Jeff, joined us. Tim’s wife, Bonnie, had a previous engagement and we missed seeing her smiling face. There are the 4 Shaws of the North (Wisconsin), 4 Shaws of the South (Florida), and one Shaw in Denver. That’s a lot of Shaws!
Bob’s longtime high school friend and our optometrist, Mike, and his girlfriend, Beth also came.
We spent some time getting caught up and enjoying the beautiful weather. The traffic noise actually died off around 5:00 which was nice for our conversations.
We served sub sandwiches and some sides for dinner, and enjoyed some tasty desserts brought by Jean, Sara, and Mike. Thanks everyone!
There was more conversation before everyone packed up to leave as the sun was beginning to set. We lucked out and never got bothered by any mosquitoes while everyone was here.
We took a “Shaw sibling” picture before everyone departed. (No color coordination of clothes was planned.)
The sun was aglow as it neared the horizon. This picture doesn’t do it justice. It was a fiery ball of orange.
We said our goodbyes and after everyone left, we took Auggie for his walk around the campground. It cooled off nicely for a comfortable walk. There were still some empty sites even after a few campers arrived this afternoon. It was good to see the family and spend some time together.
It is great that you were able to get the brothers and sisters together! Very special.
It makes for great memories.