On Veteran’s Day, one of our dearest family friends

invited us to come along with them for a day spent in Oak Glen, California.

Husby got off of work that morning from a two-day shift.

We pulled together and attempted to quickly tackle the morning routine

while trying to diffuse little arguments between our kids along the way.

It was definitely one of those chaotic mornings where the house was a mess,

the kids were cranky, and each time I turned around,

Mr. Finn was creating more of a disaster!

We left a good hour after we had planned…

I sacrificed a trip to Starbucks {to get a cup of my current addiction}

and we set forth on the road.

Luckily we didn’t run into any traffic, but we did get a bit off track… {to say the least}!

My dear friend, thankfully, gave me a buzz

and I told her the exit we had just taken

{we had finally stopped for that cup of coffee I was craving – smile}.

My directional friend quickly explained that we were headed the wrong way.

We were, in fact, headed up the mountain towards Lake Arrowhead.

After our detour, we finally hit our destination and couldn’t believe how lovely the area was.

There were yaks, deer, and beautiful country homes situated on roomy lots with big Fall trees.

It was peaceful, crisp, and just what we needed … {especially after the crazy morning we had}.

Although we didn’t have time to visit the apple orchards that particular day,

we did have an amazing day spent with some of our closest friends.

We took our kids to the petting zoo,

and walked around the rustic little town.

We couldn’t leave with out indulging in some vanilla roasted nuts, hot dogs, chili,

and some homemade warm apple burritos.

With two fresh apple pies in hand, we said good-bye to charming Oak Glen.

Hopefully we can make this into a Fall family tradition…

but next time will plan on a full day… with apple picking!

{So thankful to have this girl in my life…. my amazing friend Maria and I}