Day trip to Chi town

Tuesday i took hannah and ben to chicago. We had an awesome time going to Shedd Aquarium, Rain Forrest Cafe and American Girl. Quite a few firsts for all 3 of us. For me it was the first time at Shedd Aquarium, Rain Forrest Cafe and not to mention driving in Chicago. The kids had never been to Chicago. Shedd was amazing. Never knew how many different types and colors of fish there were. We were a little disappointed that the river otter was hiding. But who couldreally blame him with 10 preschool age campers attacking the window where he lived.

After going to Shedd we made our way down to Michigan Avenue on the city bus. Yes this country girl managed to ride the bus without getting lost. We had lunch at the Rain Forrest cafe. Such a cool restaurant. Hannah got a little creeped out with the talking tree. Neither one of us was expecting that. We were looking at stuffed animals and all of a sudden a tree next to us started talking. Weird. I thought all the different jungle sounds were pretty neat while we were eating.

And then what trip to chicago with a 7 year old little girl is complete without a trip to the American Girl store? Especially when you are informed by the 7 year that chicago is where the American Girl store and she doesn't have an American girl doll and her sisters both have one. I mean I had to rectify that situation immediately. I think i had more fun watching Hannah's facial expressions at all the dolls and doll accessories than anything. Her whole face lit up when we walked in. This little girl had no clue what was in store for her. Completely worth all the money i spent on her :) After all i have pretty much given up alll hope of my siblings ever giving me a little neice to spoil. So i am taking advantage of my bestie's little girls.

And then we finished up the day at Kristin's house. Fun times getting caught up with her. We haven't seen each other since April ( i think). The kids watched Shrek while we talked.

And another good thing about the whole day was it was ED free day :) Which was amazing. I was able to really be present and enjoy the entire day. And see the experiences through the kids eyes. I can not wait for another little day trip.

me vs the swim suit

Dear Swimsuit and pool;
Can we please come to a truce? You see i really do like to go swimming and I love the feel of the hot summer sun. But for some odd reason when the 3 of us get together you guys love to play games with my mind. I know for a fact you swimming suit have not shrunk and i have not gotten bigger. As a matter of fact i weigh less now than i did last summer when i was fine with you. So please can we call a truce for the rest of the summer? I would love to enjoy swimming and playing in you mr. pool with 4 kids that i love and adore and i know they feel the same way about me. And besides that they don't care about how i look in you mr swimming suit.

thanks
kat