South Dakota

South Dakota's Mount Rushmore has been on my "bucket list" for years. I was actually surprised to see the "faces." They seemed much smaller in scale than I imagined. And, indeed, they could fit all within Crazy Horse's hair. This is a state with great history, beautiful green (black) hills and plains. Thanks to my Mom for always researching the best places to stay and things to do. Custer State Park is a must do for everyone! Staying at the Bell Blue Lodge within the park allowed us to see wildlife up close that we wouldn't see anywhere else in the state. Wild turkeys, pheasants, burros, prairie dogs, antelope, deer, elk and buffalo. Imagine driving down the road only to come upon a herd of 100+ buffalo or even a single buffalo. Buffalo within a few feet of the car (windows down!). The Black Hills provided us with endless entertainment - Keystone's alpine slide, Mt. Rushmore and the zipline, Hill City's train depot, gem panning and winery, Custer's antler shop and Crazy Horse monument, along with geocaching and wildlife viewing. As we passed through Rapid City for the plains and Badlands, we took in the mystery spot, Old McDonalds Farm, Bear Country and the famous Wall Drug. The plains provided Ethan the opportunity to see true farm life. While we enjoyed taking care of the horses, Ethan is clearly a city boy. The 1,000's of grasshoppers drove him to the brink multiple times! He came home in his favorite pair of cowboy boots that he wore non-stop the second leg of the trip, even in shorts. He was also happy to find a sling shot and rabbit fur pouch for storing his collector's coins and gems. We can't wait to take Daddy-o on a trip to the Black Hills in the future!