Spring Break!!

For Spring Break, we had lots of visitors. Katie flew in for over a week, and then Chels, Avery, and Brandon came up for the weekend.

We were spoiled when they lived close by so we had to overindulge and do as much as we could while they were here. And we LOVED every minute of it.

Dallas Arboretum

The cutest little flower "thieves" who happened to steal a flower before we were even inside the Arboretum.

Tanner was obsessed with Katie when she came to visit. He wanted Katie to be next to him 24/7 and I was easily replaced. When I'd go to get him some juice, he'd tell me "No, Mommy. Katie do it!" Katie always likes to spoil him and give him all sorts of extra attention -- so it's no wonder. Now, if only she lived closer. We miss her being all the way in Seattle :)

Dallas Zoo

Feeding the giraffes is always the highlight of the day. Tanner is all about feeding them until they get an inch away and then he makes a run for it. He always freaks out at the very last second, but then turns around to do it again. But I admit, those giraffes are not shy and want their lettuce!!

We got to see the trainers feed the elephants too. They were feeding them pieces of fruit (ie M&Ms to elephants). We love the new exhibit and all the space they have to roam about. Avery like asking additional questions to the instructors.

Tanner always is talking about the elephants.

We even splurged and took a train ride around the zoo. Turns out the real 'animals' were in our own train the entire time....haha.

Tanner is still talking about the bird landing on his head months ago...that silly bird. And this time, it happened again. These birds virtually attach once they find out your have food.

Chels and I were freaking out too -- just trying to keep it together for the kiddos. Chels looks like a pro!

Swimming at the Allen Indoor Natatorium

Tanner lost his footing on the stairs and was completely underwater for several seconds before I could scoop him up. As soon as I picked him up, he was so relieved and happy -- he didn't even cry. I think I was more traumatized than he was...but then again, he held on TIGHT afterwards!

Avery is quite the little swimmer -- can swim completely and totally on her own. I think this year might be time for swim lessons for Tanner, but without Chels & Ave living close by, we'll have to figure out a new pool to crash.

Bowling & Arcade Games

Bowling was top of Avery's list of things to do in Dallas -- and it didn't disappoint. Loves these little kids moves. Just look at them :)

Every time I see that pic of Ave's smile, I just want to hug & squeeze.

Caden is a lil professional -- he has better form than I do :) And I love how excited he gets!!

Don't think Tanner was going to pass up his turn at bowling! "I do it myself Mommy" is all I kept hearing...even when it comes to picking up the heavy ball.

Chels didn't seem to mind being 6 months prego and bowling.

And even shy little Brynlee remembered Katie and cuddled in her lap!!

Arcade games. Tanner was barely tall enough to play some air hockey!!

The best part about little kids -- Tanner still desn't care if he doesn't have quarters to power the game :)

Pedicures -- This time, girls only

These two are just plain stinking adorable when they're together.

They were holding hands, laughing and singing. It just doesn't get any better than that!!

Avery's Quote Book:

When Avery woke up on Thursday morning, I was telling her how excited Tanner was when I told him you were coming to visit.

Avery asked, "Did he wake up and go OH MY GOSH, we're going to see Texas to see TANNER today??" with enough energy and excitement to wake up the whole neighborhood.

My response, "Well, it wasn't quite like that."

Avery: "We'll, I did!"

On Friday morning, this is what I heard while I was lying in bed half asleep and half awake:

Avery: "Tanner, do you still read this book? -[pointing to a baby book about colors]"

Tanner: Yesssss

Avery: "Well, can I have it? I want it for Quincy!"

Tanner: Ummm... no response.

Avery: "Well, you already know your colors and Quincy doesn't. I have to teach her and she needs it.

Keeps following Tanner around. "So it is okay if I have it?"

Finally, Tanner realized she wasn't going to take no for an answer. "Okay Avey"

Seriously, I credit Avery to half the things Tanner knows. She's an amazing teacher - and will do very well with little baby Quincy once she makes her grande debut.