Saturday, August 30, 2014

Natural Curiosity

While cousins were here we took a trip to the Museum of Natural Curiosity. We had tons of fun. We certainly didn't get to see or try everything so I'm sure we will be going back!

The rainforest was a hit with the kids because it was a gigantic playground. Not a hit with the parents because it was impossible to keep track of your kids, even with a 1:1 adult:kid ratio. 

Zeke loved the rope bridges. They were a little scary for him but he was a champ about it. 


Nora started on the rope bridge, backed out, decided to try again, and almost backed out again but we struggled through it. She did awesome for being really scared and having to work really hard. [Flip flops are not the optimal footwear for this sort of thing.]


We probably spent the most time in the water room. The kids had a blast at the water tables. 


Ponchos and galoshes for everyone! My kids loved the boots. 



We almost couldn't get them away from the water physics experiment. 


Then we sampled a hurricane. 


The kid-sized city was really fun. We got to play music, drive a train, and go to the bank.  Zeke is still talking about going back to spend more time in the 'drive-thru' of the bank. 


We also put on a pirate show in the theatre.


After a yummy picnic we headed into the gardens in the evening. We walked for a bit then headed back to the fountain and the playground. This was my favorite part of the day. It was more relaxed than the museum and I could just enjoy watching the kiddos making wonderful memories. The garden closed and we had to leave long before anyone was ready to be done.


Friday, August 29, 2014

Family Reunion-ing

We always look forward to the big Loertscher reunion. This year we got to spend it with cousins from out of state, as well as the cousins and 2nd cousins that live closer. 



Nora loved the water games and practically lived in her princess swimsuit. 


Riding the train is something the kids look forward to all year. 


This year we had something new - sno-cones and cotton candy. It was a hit! I had to go get my own after Nora took over the tiger's blood cone we were supposed to be sharing. After sampling all of the options she decided she liked grape the best. 


Zeke had never had cotton candy before but was so excited to try it. He loved it.