Welcome Back Monarchs Day

Scott and I took the girls to Natural Bridges for a butterfly party. The things parents do for kids surprises me sometimes. This party was celebrating the return of the Monarch butterflies for their winter stay there at the park/beach. Tables were set up with activities and crafts for kids. Mollie had fun at a few of the tables. Allie had fun everywhere. Running and exploring everything was her goal for the day and she succeeded! For several months Mollie has be in love with butterflies. She insists that we pray for them with her at meals and bedtime. We went on a short walk into a grove where the majority of the butterflies rest for winter. Although they aren't all there yet in massive quantity, it was fun to seem them in the trees and flying overhead. One was resting right along the path and allowing families to stop and take a close look. I know Mollie is young, and Allie even younger. But I hope some of these outings stick with them and they remember having fun growing up.

Summer Vacation

Scott was able to take a day off work in August and we did a family vacation day to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. We had been putting off taking the girls to this place because they are scared of pet stores. And I mean the kind of scared where they start crying and screaming just walking in the door. I blame the loud parrots that surprised them one day. Even little simple animals like fish have frightened Mollie in the past. But once we were at the aquarium it was like all past fears seemed to disappear. Both girls had a great time. We all had fun! Mollie liked learning about the different animals from a nice safe distance. Allie liked getting right in there, seeing things as up close as she could. Their personalities are quite different and how they explored the aquarium showed that.

Mollie with Grandma Nancy

Learning from a volunteer.

Not sure who Allie is smiling at; the fish or her reflection!

Good thing Dad was holding Allie. Otherwise she'd be getting her whole body into the pool for sure!

Getting Started

So many people these days have their own blogs. I gladly admit that I enjoy reading the blogs of my friends. It may not be as personable as an email. And who writes real, honest to goodness letters these day?! This is my attempt to keep my family and friends updated on the little life things that happen in our home. So please forgive the time gaps that may occur between postings. And please forgive misspellings. This is real life and here is a glimpse of ours. Thanks for stopping by!