"going to the zoo" - by Tom Paxton

Wow I needed this week. We had So much fun playing together. Everything was so relaxed. We loved everything about it. I'm so grateful that Nate was able to take time off and enjoy things with us too.  The first day it was raining cats and dogs so we tried out this fun place called Gatti-town out in Misourri City/Sugar Land, and we had a really fun time playing old arcade games, miniature golf and eating a pizza buffet. Much better in my opinion than Chuck-E- you know what. :) It was at this point in our trip that I wasn't sure I'd make it for a whole week sitting in the middle front seat... :) (Don't worry, I did make it. )  Our crown Victoria may not be the prettiest thing on the block, but having six seat belts is definitely a plus. I just wish Aria was old enough to sit in the front... :) Her bum's a lot smaller than mine.

Sunday we got to reunite with some old friends. I'm accompanying our Stake Choir Easter Fireside and they've been practicing since January.  A lot of people at the Stake Choir are people that Nate's parents knew 25 years ago. We met them for dinner on Thursday and had a really good time with them. These are what people in Texas are to me. So friendly, loving, kind. Southern accents. I appreciate it so much coming from a city that was completely shut off to personal relationships with other people. Aren't they cute? I especially love Jeff's face.

 Their friend gave them these adorable little Texas cookie cutters and a Texas mug. Both are PERFECT gifts for my in-laws. They probably didn't realize just how perfect. :) .

Monday we went to the ZOO!! Jeff's birthday gift from Grandpa and Grandma. Now he can go all year. It will be so awesome to have something to do with my wonderful Jeff when Aria will be at all day Kindergarten. I'm sure going to miss her, but having something fun like that to do will sure make it go by quicker. We had to park quite a ways a way from the zoo due to Spring break parking craziness downtown, but we got to walk by Trey's old stomping grounds and we just had to take a picture.

 Aria loves Merry-go-rounds. She could ride this all day, I'm sure.

 Jeff looking at the monkeys, or chimps, or whatever the politically correct term is.

 This was one of my favorite moments... Jeff running to Grandpa. Just look at that face....

 And Jeff running to Dad... Seriously awesome faces! Pure joy. He's so cute. I just adore him. He went back and forth several times. Now honestly, this is somewhat of a miracle for him, because he doesn't really love other people. Luckily Jeff warmed up pretty quickly due to a little prep from Mom via the awesome books I got my kids for church! Yay!

 The Lions... I'm glad people don't stand there and watch me when I'm relaxed like this. He was gettin' foxy with the lady lion too. hmmm. Is Simba coming soon?

 Turtles! These were really cool to watch too. I have to admit though, that my favorite were the otters. I swear I had a video of Jeff's reaction to the sea otters, but I can't find it... at least we get to go back!

 Looking at Rhinos... I'm mostly just really glad that Nate got to be here with us.

Hopefully we can all go again!
What's your favorite animal?...