Perrin drops by the Land of Lincoln

Perrin made her journey from the city that never sleeps to our sleepy, little town in the Midwest. We weren't the only ones who had been anticipating her visit. A sweet little mouse named Saylor, from Petit Bonbon was just finishing up his visit with our family.

Perrin and Saylor spent the evening relaxing and enjoying each other's company.

G was delighted to have two new friends in the house

Once Perrin was rested we decided to show her around our fine county. Perrin was very interested in visiting Amish country. Lucky for her, one of the oldest and largest Amish communities in Illinois, is a few miles down the road. The first Amish family settled in this area in 1865 and today there are approximately 4000 members. We took a driving tour of the homes, locally-owned shops, and farm ground. Perrin enjoyed seeing the horse and buggies, hand-crafted furniture and especially the homemade fudge and cheese.

After checking out the unique sculptures at Rockome Gardens (which is actually closed until May), Perrin agreed to go and check out one of the local folklore sites; a haunted grave. Legend has it that in the early 1900s a woman was found dead in a farmer's field, after being accused of witchcraft. She was known to speak out and challenge the Amish way of life...believing that the women were being mistreated in the local Amish community. Believing her a witch and afraid of what she may do in death, the town planted an oak tree over her grave in an attempt to keep her spirit trapped underground. If you visit today, as we did, the marker no longer shows a name or date, but the iron gate still stands around the tree and grave.

Chesterville Cemetery - we didn't see any ghosts

"Outhouses were once an important part of everyday life and their historical contribution should be recorded for prosperity" - a note at the historical site

We decided to lighten up the visit with a stop by one of the more silly sights in the area, the famous Two-Story Outhouse. You might not believe it, but this is  actually a legitimate historical site, with a fancy sign and everything! Built in 1872, this delightful potty allowed two people to "do their business." Don't worry the person on bottom is still safe, as the design is one person on the right, other on the left. Perrin and Max (Our little DFH boy), had lots of fun going back in time! We all decided we prefer our modern plumbing.

Home means Nevada

 We had such big plans for Perrin while she was with us! She played trains with her new friends Luke and Caleb.

 She loved getting to know Luke and giving him hugs.

The head dolly here, Amelia, LOVED meeting Perrin and hearing all about her travels. They sat, talked and giggled for hours. Amelia even let her try on her very prized tiara. Perrin liked it so much, I promised to make her one before she left. :) 

Perrin enjoyed a few tea parties, where she was of course, the guest of honor. Here is Lilla Rue, pouring her some tea.  The kids of the house enjoyed her beautiful bright hair and sweet little demeanor. She was so polite and always said please and thank you.

 Perrin even enjoyed watching the Super Bowl, where the Baltimore Ravens and San Francisco 49ers played. Caleb told her all about the rules of the game and she was really into it! To my surprise, Perrin jumped up and danced her butt off to Beyonce and Destiny's Child during half time. That girl has some moves! I wonder who she takes it from!?

 Num num, tea in her new Tiara! Perrin really loves it and was so appreciative. She said that she can't wait to show you all! I think that she looks pretty cute in it! :)

We had planned to take her down town to see the sights of Las Vegas but on her last day here, her host had a terrible case of the sniffles. Perrin and her friend Hazel decided to make some delicious homemade chicken soup.  She is quite the chef and was more than happy to stay home, snuggle, cook and learn to crochet. You were such a wonderful little treat, Perrin and I wish you all of the luck, joy and happiness that your sweet little life has to offer. We are so proud to be a part of it. With love, The Martines family.