Spring Break St. Louis Part 1

 Rachel and her kids came last week to spend a few days of Spring Break with us.  The weather was beautiful, so we had several outdoor activities.  Usually, we go to Longview Park.  Click here and click here.

 But, we decided to go to Queeny Park this time.  It's just as close as Longview and the park my children played in when they were children.

The playground isn't as grand as it used to be, but the kids still enjoyed hiking and playing there.  The next day, we went to the zoo, but parked at a different entrance which had us exploring some new sections of the zoo.

 We went to the Children's Zoo where the kids enjoyed petting a hedgehog, sliding down a slide by an otter water attraction.

 

 We also went in the Insectarium which has a butterfly room---not as big as the butterfly house, but still fun for the kids.

 We did get to see other parts of the zoo, but my camera took a holiday?

Rachel's Art

 As I mentioned in an earlier blog, I love children's art.  While cleaning out my basement, I found several boxes of my daughters' art from elementary school.  While Rachel was in town last week, I dug her art out.

 This was her daughter Libby's favorite---a kite.

 Not sure why everyone is so brown here, but I like the outlining---really makes those colors pop.

 The playground at Henry School doesn't have this any more, but Rachel's kids found one at the zoo.  Rachel said they always called it "The Eagle's Nest".

 This one is my favorites---I may regret letting it go.  The wing is out-lined in glitter!

 Rachel apparently went through a Garfield phase. . .

 Bet you never thought you'd see a photo of animals being herded by two Garfields!

Although this one had no name, Rebecca and Leah agree that it has all of the ear marks of Rachel!  If you are interested in seeing where all of this art took Rachel, click here.

Women's Retreat Day Two

 After a good night's sleep, we woke up early for Yoga with Pastor Susan,

 Followed by more Spiritual enrichment.

Women's Retreat Day One

 About 30 women from our church went to Todd Hall in Columbia, IL for a 24 hour retreat.

 We spent most of our time in Cramner Hall

 But, had comfortable clean rooms to stay in at night.

 We had several hours of socializing while women arrived.  We had several who brought their knitting.  But, most of us just brought our social skills.

Family Fun

 I love the scrabble board---it says it all.

 

Family times are a chance for brother-in-laws to watch some sports.  Cousins to play games. Siblings to share an iPad.  Sisters to chat on the steps.  

 Family time is also sharing new skills like bike riding. And "reading" books.

 Quality grandpa time.

 Dad helping with a project. 

How else could we have seen Eli and Anna's talents!  Not just anyone can dance to toothbrush music! (click below)http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v3mKsu39nE8&feature=youtu.be