Amway Grand Hotel, Grand Rapids

Spent the week here in Grand Rapids, MI as a guest while my sweetheart attended a NABS conference (North American Benthological Society) to see the latest in freshwater studies. My eyes kind of glaze over if I'm caught up in one of these gatherings, so I made sure to stay out of the way, go to the beach, visit many museums, and tour area gardens. I back blipped my week-long adventure which starts here.

What made this a very nice, relaxing time, was that we dropped the kids off to the grandparents, so they too get their own little vacation from their parents. This is the first time we've made this kind of arrangement, but since everyone had such a great time, I'm sure it won't be the last :)

It was great to catch up with some long time friends that have come from all over the world. With technology these days (email & Skype) it does make it easier to stay in touch, but obviously, there is no substitute for visiting in person. Gosh, it was nice.

Note: Steppin In It played the live music venue last night. These guys were awesome. I danced my heart out. They have their own website, so check them out :)