West of Houston, Sandie’s family has a patch of land where they go to play and relax. There’s a three-story tree house, 4×4’s, a shooting range, and a pond. Most of all, though, there’s peace and quiet. It’s just so Texas.

Today we paid our first visit to The Patch. We rode, ran, shot, paddled, and relaxed. The kids loved it. DaddyMom did too. Great fun for all.

Sandie at the helm

It’s not everyday Phyllis gets her wheels off the pavement. So, Sandie took the wheel to coach our beloved beast off-road and into the back country confines of The Patch.

Be it ever so humble: The Patch

There are four things you won’t find on The Patch: No phone. No cable. No broadband. No problems. It’s a barn-o-fun and many acres on which to have it—as Zuzu soon discovered riding with Grant aboard the Gator….

…and, aboard a 4×4 with Sandie.

Two fearless gals out for fun on Texas trails cut just for these vehicles.

What’s good for Zuzu, is good for Kate

While I had a healthy dose of trepidation about their riding, the girls hopped on back every time, anxious for the adventure. Smiles grew with every ride.

Stella captains her own ship

Stella was the only one who took to the water this visit; it was just cool enough to put others off the idea. I found her paddling up a stream off the pond. My intrepid explorer, charting her own course—as she so often does.

Don’t try this at home

Kyle and Grant’s experience at knife throwing was pretty obvious to see. I’m just glad John didn’t get a look at this. I’m fine knowing he’s satisfied with his Nerf guns. Or, is he?

Meanwhile, down on the range

This one had a little more recoil than his airsoft and Nerf guns. John loved the chance to squeeze off a magazine for real. He did really well.

Sandie’s son Grant is a sure-shooter with his 22. I’ve taken careful note that all three of them are great shots. Then again, I have my own set of marksmen:

Sandie’s dad, Chuck, coaches Stella on proper technique with the Glock. She and John were pretty much a match on the target. But, DaddyMom showed them why my girls’ dates would be wise to get them home on time.

I’m having this one framed and hanging it in my den where boys will wait for my daughters when taking them on a date. Perhaps I should get  copes for them to carry in their purses too.

The day went by way too fast and two of my brood were sawing logs by the time we reached our driveway. Fresh air and lots of space are the antidote to daily life in the city. We’re all looking forward to our next trip west to The Patch.