Disney: Take Three

It feels slightly obscene that we just returned from our third annual trip to Disney. But, this is a perk of the job at Mayo, and so who are we to say no to a conference speaking offer at the Four Seasons in Orlando? We're no dummies. I admit I kind of scoffed at the idea when Matt first told me--how many times do we need to do this trip? Isn't this crazy? But, I am so glad we went. It was our best trip yet, and I could really see the growth in the girls and their willingness to experience different rides. We did some different parks this year (added Epcot and tried a day at Universal for Harry Potter World), and it was fun to travel on Jillian's birthday and try to make is special for her.

Ready to roll with my row-mates. Matt was right in front of us. I love it when we happen upon a plane that has individual screens at each seat. It's like the kids aren't even with us, they are entertained and each watching whatever they like (as are Matt and I).

The flight attendant was lovely and made over Jillian's big day. She announced that it was her birthday on the intercom, and then later brought her a special kiddie cocktail (OJ, cranberry juice, and Fresca).

About to touch down and Adrienne is ready for the landing--she's such a thrill seeker, practicing for the wild rides!

We grabbed a quick lunch at Chick-Fil-A after we landed and had to laugh about Adrienne's lunch. Our little vegetarian just needed a bun with cheese, please.

Robes, crowns, and wands for the princesses upon our arrival.

After some time at the lazy river, pool, and water slides at the resort, it was time for a bath (while watching TV of course) and to get ready to meet Aunt Angela for dinner.

This might be my favorite picture ever.

This year, Jillian asked me to surprise her with her birthday shirt. They usually make requests based on what characters they are into, or what the party theme is. Jillian is clearly growing up as she said, "Mom, please just no characters or baby-ish stuff". OK. She was pretty pleased with the surprise, as she loves baseball tees!

Riding in the elevator down to get the car. Adrienne rocked the crown all night long.

The lobby is so gorgeous with the light sculptures!

Brother and sister reunited!

Jillian's birthday surprise from the restaurant. Ironically, we sat next to a family who also had an 8 year old daughter born on the same day!

We walked around Pointe Orlando after dinner, and eventually made our way to Ben and Jerry's for some ice cream.

Mom and birthday girl selfie.

OK, had to be crazy...

And as if we hadn't celebrated enough, the resort had this cupcake waiting in the room when we returned from dinner.

Capping off a very memorable birthday by watching the Disney fireworks from our balcony. This one will be hard to beat!

Celebrating 8

Jillian's birthday this year aligns with our trip to Disney (traveling on her actual birthday), so we decided she would not get a party. She did, however, request that she be able to invite her best buddy Noah out to dinner with us to celebrate. We thought this was a very reasonable request, and so last night we picked up Noah and headed to Five West for dinner, followed by Flapdoodles for dessert. These two have a precious friendship.

Opening Noah's gifts in the car. His mom texted me to tell me that Noah had very particular desires and instructions about how he wanted her gifts wrapped.

He picked her out some very thoughtful gifts of an animal encyclopedia and some art supplies!

Today we came home from school to find this cookie on our doorstep. No note, no hints. No clue who left this for Jillian. Later I received a text from our dear swimming teacher, Mrs Larson, asking if J got her cookie she left. Mrs Larson is such a gem! Super thoughtful woman.

We let Jillian open her presents from us tonight since we have a very early flight tomorrow. Adrienne was so proud to have selected these adorable Alvin and the Chipmunks characters for Jillian. The girls love the new Alvin cartoon (and so do I!).

Big tackle hug for the little sister in appreciation.

Matt and I got her the large illustrated version of the first Harry Potter book, some other books (she loves the kid biography series titled "Who Was ____"), and the microscope she'd been longing for.

Science lessons with Dad.

October Fun

Wow, October has been a FULL month! We've had lots of fun with Grandma and Pop Pop in town and annual Fall events around town. Here's a snippet.

Love this sweet look on Adrienne's face as she snuggled up next to Matt for a Saturday nap.

Grandma and Jilly. Green-eyed girls.

Running through the tall grass with Pop Pop. He loves to take pictures in nature!

Learning about photography from Pop Pop

After church and brunch downtown we walked around. Had to take a 3 generation pic with Will and Charlie.

Sunday Evening tradition--America's Funniest Home Videos! The girls think that show is the best thing ever.

Creatures of the Night at Quarry Hill

Snacks after our night hike at QH

Daddy's girl

Silly selfies

Gotta hold the snake. Ugh.

We headed to Northwoods the next morning and got some donuts, pumpkins, and apples. We also did the big corn maze this year. Took us 40 minutes to find all 12 stamps and get out.

After some Flapdoodles and shopping, we hit up Plummer Gardens so Pop Pop could take some pics and we could walk around on a beautiful day.

Pop Pop in action!

Had to make a pie with the apples from the orchard.

I caught an unbelievable sunrise one morning. Just breathtaking.

I got to go back to QH on the 25th with Adrienne's class. Waiting for the bus with Adrienne and her BFF, Charlie.

Bus selfie, with Adrienne and her pal Sloan.

Making scientific observations about the leaves of Basswood trees.