tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35352357985095115572024-03-05T04:57:24.118-05:00The Hurst FamilyCarriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.comBlogger171125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-19449083688098457452013-08-09T15:07:00.003-04:002013-08-09T15:07:26.853-04:00Disney Day 3 {Magic Kingdom ALL DAY LONG}<br />
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Our third day of vacation was by far the most awesome! I say this because we LOVE Magic Kingdom, and we literally spent all day there! My goal was to be up and at 'em early enough to get to the park before it opened. Did it happen? Yes! It sure did! We were there about 8:15 or so, and the park opened at 9. So, when we arrived, we took some pictures outside the park, and waited "patiently" for the opening show.<br />
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Every morning, when the park opens, the train pulls into the station at Magic Kingdom, and the Mayor greets guests. They sing songs, and some of the characters are on the train, too. It.is.so.CUTE! So, Derrick grabbed a spot, with Natalie, towards the gate, and the boys and I hung out. They traded pins, I took pictures, chatted with others around me. Then when the show started, we put Natalie on my shoulders and watched it. Loved it! What a GREAT way to start our day! <br />
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Once the rope dropped, we were off. We headed straight to Tomorrowland and hit Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin-we practically walked right on. Then when we exited, we got FastPasses for it, and went to ride the Tomorrowland Speedway. <br />
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The boys were super excited that they were tall enough to ride solo and drive. But, because of our family dynamics, Derrick rode with Matthew, I rode with Natalie, and Lucas drove himself. They were beaming! After this, we headed back to Buzz Lightyear and rode it again. We finished up Tomorrowland, and then worked our way around the park. <br />
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While Derrick and the boys went to get FastPasses for Peter Pan's Flight, Natalie and I went to the Storybook Circus Meet and Greet. We saw Minnie, Daisy, Donald, and Goofy all in one building, with a maximum of five minutes to wait for each one. Then, we did the Barnstormer, which Natalie said she didn't want to ride again because it was "scary", and Dumbo. We also checked out the new Ariel's Grotto ride, which I have to say is super cute. By this time our FastPass for Peter Pan was ready, so we rode that and saw Mickey's Philharmagic. <br />
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It's a Small World was next, and then it was time for lunch. I REALLY wanted to try the Nutella and Fruit Waffle from Sleepy Hollow, and it was divine! We grabbed the kids and Derrick some burgers, chicken, etc. at Pecos Bill and enjoyed our lunch. <br />
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Then, we hit Adventureland. The Jungle Cruise-this is the first trip that neither of our boys were chosen to be a guest Skipper-, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Aladdin's Carpets were some of the attractions we hit. Also, the boys love climbing the Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse, so of course we did that. While we were making our way around Adventureland, we noticed that Aladdin and Jasmine were going to be meeting and greeting. <br />
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So, we got some ice cream, and waited for them. Derrick and the boys went to ride Pirates again, while Natalie and I saw Aladdin and Jasmine. This was so cute. They were so cute, chatting with her, and calling her a princess the whole time. Adorable. <br />
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By this time, Natalie was ready for a nap, so she huddled up in the stroller and slept. While she was sleeping, we let the boys do the Pirates Adventure-Journey of the Seven Seas, a few times. It takes place in Adventureland, and it is a treasure hunt. You scan your magic talisman, and it tells you which adventure map to take. Then, you go around, scanning it in various props, gift shops, etc. for clues. After you are done, you can go back and get another map. The boys had wanted to do this from the second they saw it, and it kept them entertained for the hot parts of the afternoon. It was free, and they thoroughly enjoyed the treasure hunting. <br />
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We stopped at Pinochhio's Village Haus for some dinner, and then started making our way up to Main Street USA to get a spot for the Main Street Electrical Parade. We stopped by Prince Charming's Royal Carousel-Natalie's absolute favorite ride of all-and then took some time to pull the sword out of the stone-we still aren't strong enough! We got our family picture in front of the castle, and went to camp out on Main Street USA for the parade. Thankfully Natalie was sleeping, because the 90 minutes we spent waiting for the parade-but we had an AWESOME spot-would've been tough if she hadn't napped again. <br />
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The boys had popcorn, watched the castle change colors, and the street performers sing, dance, etc. while we waited. We saw 3 proposals in the time we were waiting for the parade-kinda cool! Soon, it was 9:00 and time for the Main Street Electrical Parade. This is one thing our family refuses to miss when we are at Disney. The music, floats, characters, and just the whole ambiance really are awesome. I kinda get goosebumps thinking about it! We had a spot at the corner of Main Street USA, just across from the Confectionary. We were right at the beginning of the parade, and so that made it even more awesome. Totally worth the 90 minute wait. After the parade, we hit the bus stop and made our way back to the Beach Club. <br />
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Overall, our day at Magic Kingdom was awesome! The waits were reasonable, our FastPasses worked well time wise, and we really hit the park to do some great touring. I was so thankful we were there at park opening-it was for sure a great experience!<br />
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<br />Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-58695716154958330542013-07-20T17:20:00.002-04:002013-07-20T17:20:20.392-04:00Disney Day 2 {Hollywood Studios & EPCOT}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We started the day with an early reservation at Hollywood and Vine. It was nice, because we could walk to Hollywood Studios from our resort. This is a restaurant at Hollywood Studios, with a breakfast buffet that features Disney, Jr. characters. For this meal, we arrived at the park around 8:00, and our reservation was at 8:20. So, we got in a little early to enjoy the park with no crowds and get some fun pictures. We didn't wait long after checking in at the restaurant. <br />
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It was a super fun place, lots of colors and for sure caters to the younger crowd. Natalie was having fun, and the boys were enjoying themselves, too. Hollywood Studios is their favorite park, and so they were excited to be there so early, which meant less wait times, a chance to sign up for the Jedi Training Academy, and lots of rides on Star Tours. <br />
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We had our breakfast, and some of the characters made their way to our table. We saw Jake and Handy Manny. Natalie didn't really care about Oso, and so we left before he made it to our table. I didn't want to rush through our meal, but I did have a slight agenda. I REALLY wanted to sign the boys up for the Jedi Training Academy. They have many shows throughout the day, but if you don't get to the sign ups right away, you won't get a spot. So, we ate and Derrick stayed behind to pay. I took the boys to the Jedi Training Academy to sign them up-and we actually got a spot. Meanwhile, he took Natalie to get some fastpasses for Toy Story Mania. We got the 2:20 time for the Jedi Training Academy, and 11:30 return times on Toy Story Mania. Awesome!!!!!<br />
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So, we made our way around Hollywood Studios. The wait for Star Tours was very minimal, so the boys and Derrick rode that. We hit the first Disney, Jr. Live on Stage Show of the day. Of course, Natalie was over the moon about it. Doc McStuffins and Sofia the First made an appearance in the show, and that pretty much made her life worth living. It was so cute to watch her enjoy the show! Right next to this is the Animation Academy. Super cool!!!!! We had never done this before, and the boys loved it. Well, sort of. It was kind of hard for Matthew because he is such a perfectionist with his drawings, and they don't give you an eraser :(.<br />
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The Animation Academy allows about 40 people in at a time. You take a seat at an animation desk, which has a stool, piece of drawing paper, and a pencil at it. There is an Imagineer at the front, who leads you through, very step by step, directions. At the end of the 20 minute session, you've drawn a Disney character. Super cool! It was pretty fun, and we drew Pluto. <br />
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After this, we hit Toy Story Mania, the Backlot Tour, and then got some lunch. By then, it was time for the Jedi Training Academy. Woot! So while I took the boys to get their costumes on, Derrick stayed with Natalie and let her play on the Honey, I Shrunk the Kids movie set. <br />
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They were SO excited. Since the Jedi Training Academy fills up literally within less than an hour of the park opening, we were very lucky to even get two spots for the 2:20 pm show. So the boys donned their young padawan robes, and were marched from the prep area across the park to the Jedi Training Stage. In this show, someone comes out and teaches all the young padawans a light saber routine. Then, Darth himself comes out so they can test their routine against him. <br />
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About 7 or 8 minutes into the show, it started raining. They called all the kids off the stage, and decided to cancel it. The boys {and I} were SO bummed. To make up for it, they lined the youngsters up and led them behind the scenes of Star Tours for a special meet up/photo opportunity with Darth Vader and some Stormtroopers. </div>
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So, after this we walked our way to the entrance, and the boys and I took the boat back to the resort while Natalie and Derrick walked. Believe it or not, he beat us back. But oh well. The boys wanted to ride the boat. He put her down for a nap, and the boys and I stopped at Beaches and Cream for an ice cream treat. Yum! Hello yumminess!!!! I had a No Way Jose, and the boys had ice cream, too. We hung out in our room for awhile, and waited out a little rain. <br />
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Since the rain looked like it wasn't going to stop-yet it had let up some-we decided to brave World Showcase again. I mean, we could walk from country to country, check out the shops, and get some food. Even though we were all in ponchos, we made the best of it. The boys had a Norwegian cinnamon roll, I tried some German caramel corn, and we even rode a few rides. It was fun, despite the rain. Then, we grabbed some dinner at the Electric Umbrella. </div>
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After we ate, we made our way towards World Showcase Lagoon to catch Illuminations. We got a decent spot, just where you enter World Showcase from Future World. That is such a fabulous fireworks and laser show. The boys LOVE it. We got out the glow sticks and hung out while watching Illuminations. </div>
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What started as an early day, mixed in with some serious rain, ended up being a GREAT day all around. </div>
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-11808876411589321172013-07-04T14:41:00.003-04:002013-07-04T14:41:56.093-04:00Disney 2013 {Day 1-EPCOT}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our first family EPCOT picture. Obviously, Natalie didn't want her picture taken. </td></tr>
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When we booked our Disney vacation, we bought Park Hopper tickets. We haven't done this for years....not since our first trip 6 years ago. That means that we can go from park to park anytime. Otherwise, with base tickets, you can only visit one park per day. Since our visit was only 4 days, we went with Park Hoppers so we could get the most out of our time. Our resort was so close to EPCOT, that we could walk to the International Gateway entrance {which leads to World Showcase} in about 5 minutes. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Natalie practicing her curtsy before heading to breakfast. </td></tr>
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We had an early morning reservation at Akerhaus, the sit down restaurant in Norway. We chose Akerhaus so Natalie could see all her princess friends, the boys could get a good breakfast, and we could be in the park before it opened. We left our room around 7:15, anticipating that we could get in. Typically, you can get into the park with no problem if you present your reservation number. Well, since we were at the back entrance, and the park wasn't ready for opening yet, we had to wait about 35 minutes. Not fun with two hungry boys, one excited princess, and I was sort of stressed. I didn't want to be late for our reservation, and I had hoped to have a fairly empty World Showcase in which to take pictures of the kids. Not so much. The gates finally opened around 7:55. We made our way to Norway, and we only waited about 5 minutes before they announced the "Royal Hurst Family" was ready to be seated. Cool! </div>
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When we walked in, Belle was our "hostess" princess. She was in an alcove where we could have a photo taken with her, and get Natalie's autograph book signed. Natalie was so cute interacting with Belle. She was afraid to hug her, for fear she'd mess her up. Anyway, we had our photo moment, and then we were seated at our table. We helped ourselves to the "cold buffet"-bagels, fruit, yogurt, etc., while they took our drink orders and brought the hot plates out. We had eggs, sausage, potatoes, etc. brought to our table, family style-yet it was all you could eat. As we were eating, the princesses started making their way around to the tables. The first one who visited us was Cinderella. She was nice, but we've interacted with nicer Cinderella's before. She was sort of in a hurry, but it was really fine. Natalie was excited to see her nonetheless. </div>
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Next was Princess Aurora {aka Sleeping Beauty}. She is Natalie's absolute favorite, mainly because she wears a pink dress :). She oohed and aahed over Natalie's beautiful dress, addressed the boys as princes, and Derrick as "sire". Fun! I had brought along Natalie's Little Golden Books for the princesses to sign. It was so cute! Now she has autographed princess books! </div>
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Snow White visited us, and she was so cute too! Natalie's dress had glitter on it-which smudges off easily-and Snow White mentioned that it looked as if she had been playing in the mines with the dwarves and that she had pixie dust on her dress now, too. Natalie just kept staring at Snow-rightly so, because she was so heavily made up and looked so much like Snow White it wasn't even funny. </div>
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Along came Ariel, who had the cutest and most playful personality. She giggled with Natalie, and had big hugs for her. Right as Ariel was finishing her photos and autographs with us, it was time for the Princess Parade. Basically, the princesses line up the little princesses and they parade through the restaurant. Natalie followed right behind Ariel with the rest of the little girls. So cute!</div>
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After breakfast, we made our way out to the park. It had JUST opened, so we headed straight for Test Track-it had been refurbished and was closed last year when were there. The boys were SO looking forward to riding it. You design your own car, and take it for a "test" drive. Then, you board a race car-similar to one you'd ride on a go cart/speed track-and test it. It goes through series of stops and gos, and then it opens up to an outdoor track, and your car goes VERY fast. It is really super fun. It's one of our favorite rides at Disney. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew and Lucas were so proud of their car! </td></tr>
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So, we got Fastpasses, Rider Switch passes, and stood in the standby line. Derrick and the boys rode standby, while Natalie and I went to The Land. We rode The Seas with Nemo and Friends, Imagination with Figment, and then it was time to meet the boys and Derrick. We swapped kids, and I rode FastPass line with the boys while Derrick took Natalie into a few shops and to ride Living with the Land and Figment again. We made our way up to the front of the park to ride Spaceship Earth. That's always a fun one, and everyone in our family loves it.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew and Natalie</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew, Natalie, and Lucas</td></tr>
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We visited Club Cool, and tried Cokes from around the world. Some of them are pretty good, but others are nasty. The kids ran through the water sprayers a bit, and then we made our way to Soarin' to use our RiderSwitch passes. Lucas refused to ride, so Matthew and I rode while Derrick waited with the other two. After all this, we made our way back to the resort for some lunch and some quiet time. We hung out for a few hours, to wait the rain out. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew, Derrick, and I</td></tr>
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We took the monorail over to EPCOT, and when we arrived it was pouring down rain. We donned our ponchos, and made our way to Innoventions. These buildings have some cool, experimental things in them-sort of like COSI. The boys LOVE playing in here, and there were a few things Natalie enjoyed too. While the boys explored the making of video games {shocker}, I took Natalie through the Great Piggy Bank Adventure. </div>
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I'm not 100% sure she learned anything about saving money, but it was fun and kept us out of the rain. Since it was still raining, we made our way back to the resort and got some pizzas. We watched movies until we fell asleep! Overall, it was a great day, despite the rain. </div>
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-17248746009755602892013-07-02T14:36:00.000-04:002013-07-02T14:36:07.699-04:00Disney Vacation 2013 <div style="text-align: center;">
Vacation has come and gone. It was SO awesome again this year! We started our journey on Tuesday night, June 22. We packed the car during the day, I finished cleaning up the house, and Derrick and I tried to nap. We had planned to drive through the night, letting the kids sleep in the car. After supper, we cleaned up, locked up, and we were off. We left around 8:00 pm. The kids bedded down in the car with a movie. After one last restroom stop, and a snack, they fell asleep. Amazingly, they did well! No one made a peep until around 7 in the morning. Although I am not a fan of driving over the night, only because we arrive exhausted, it ended up working very well. The kids slept so well, and that meant no fighting, no feeding, and no boredom! As a kid, I always remember that time passed so much quicker when I slept on road trips! So, as our littles dozed in the back seat, Derrick and I chatted, and I dozed every once in awhile, all the way to Orlando. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Natalie, Lucas, and Matthew all ready to go! </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This sweet girl slept so soundly! Mouth open and all!</td></tr>
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We arrived at our resort, Disney's Beach Club Resort, around noon. Granted, we were tired. But we were SO excited to be there that we didn't care! So, Derrick dropped me off at the entrance so I could check us in. I was greeted by a cast member, who took me straight up to the Fifth Floor. We had booked a room on the Club Level, which entailed some additional amenities that we wouldn't have had otherwise. They are SO accommodating! While I was being checked in, she offered me a drink, told me about the access to the lounge, offered to make dining or special event reservations for us, and even ended up giving us a few hundred dollar credit because we had requested a room with a daybed and they didn't have any available. So, we got a roll away for Nattie, and a few hundred dollars to spend :). Our room view was pretty great, too. We had a view of EPCOT's Spaceship Earth from our balcony. We could walk to EPCOT in about 10 minutes and to Hollywood Studios in about 20. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our resort was on the Boardwalk. Lots of shops and restaurants! </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from our balcony.</td></tr>
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After we went to the room, the kids watched a movie and enjoyed snacks from the lounge. Derrick started to unpack, and we decided it would be a good idea to get some lunch. We decided on Beaches and Cream for our lunch. It's a small diner style restaurant, and is very famous for its ice cream. After some burgers and salad, the kids and I hit the pool while Derrick finished unpacking. The pool was super fun! The waterslide was huge, which the boys loved. The bottom was sandy {in keeping with the beach theme}, and there was a lazy river. It was so hot that day, and the pool was awesome! After some swimming, Derrick came down to join us for a little bit. We swam a little longer, and decided that we needed some dinner. We went to the lounge for some appetizers, and then we went to Downtown Disney for some shopping. </div>
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Since the boys had money burning a hole in their pockets from Grandma and Grandpa, we let them do some spending. They each decided on a new Vinylmation figurine and a pin for their lanyards. While the boys and I shopped a little more, and stopped for a Mickey ice cream bar, Derrick and Natalie went to the World of Disney in search of a mug for one of our church members. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucas and Matthew can't go to Disney without enjoying one of these!</td></tr>
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Since his had broken, his wife wanted us to pick up a new one to replace it. I also replaced my Tinkerbell mug that I had dropped earlier this year {which cut my foot deeply and gave me 6 stitches}. While they were in the World of Disney, Derrick and Natalie picked out some jewelry for her! </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew with his new Vinylmation figurine. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucas also got one. His is an Ewok. </td></tr>
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After Downtown Disney, we were so tired! So we headed back to the resort for a late dinner and bed time. We had an early morning reservation at EPCOT the next day to dine with the princesses! </div>
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-89019501719994143792013-06-11T15:02:00.002-04:002013-06-11T15:02:25.177-04:00End of the School Year-2012/2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew, Mrs. Smith, and Lucas on the last day of school.</td></tr>
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School is over. In some ways I'm happy about that. I love being home with the kids in the summer, and we always look forward to our summer vacations. But, this year I'm a little sad, too. It's the boys' last year at Northwood Elementary, and next year they'll be at the intermediate school. Thankfully, Creekview is right around the corner from our house, but still. New school, new teachers, new routine, new expectations....things that make me anxious. We had a parent orientation a few weeks ago, which made me feel somewhat better. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew's last day of Fourth Grade.<br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucas's last day of Fourth Grade. </td></tr>
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For their last day of school, I hurried out of work to make it for the Fourth Grade Clap Out. This is where the whole student body, teachers, and parents line the halls. The fourth graders, in their homemade graduation caps, parade through the halls, as they are "clapped out" by everyone. It's really fun to watch and be a part of. There are tears {although I will say I didn't cry like I thought I would}, and lots of celebrating. </div>
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Then, it was time for another "graduation". Darragh, the last Hurst child, graduated from Fairbanks High School. So proud of her! She graduated with honors, and is planning on going to Defiance College to be a math teacher. She's also playing soccer, and she is very talented at it. We all showed up for her graduation ceremony, and then celebrated this past Sunday. It was awesome, and I hope she enjoyed it. It'll be strange with her gone away at college, but she'll love it. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The entire Hurst Family. </td></tr>
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We are gearing up for our Disney vacation, with a stop along the way home at Surfside Beach, spending a few days with my parents, sisters, and their families. The boys are finishing up their 4H projects, and preparing for Demo Day, in which they present their 4H demonstration to a panel of judges. They are really enjoying 4H, and they are taking First Aid. </div>
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I'm hoping for an awesome summer!</div>
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<br />Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-27713614916948459562013-06-11T14:44:00.001-04:002013-06-11T14:44:18.228-04:00Garden Planting, Prom, and Treasure IslandSo, since I haven't updated our family blog since March, I thought I'd give a little rundown on the last few weeks leading up to the school year. <br />
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We started a garden alongside our house. Natalie has been instrumental in helping with it! Every night, she goes out with Derrick and waters the plants and checks the garden. We have zucchini, tomatoes, hot peppers, snap peas, and cucumbers growing in the garden. We also added a few fresh herbs, like cilantro and basil. She even helped Derrick haul the dirt around the house to add to the garden. She's a good little helper!<br />
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Then, it was prom. Darragh, Derrick's youngest sister and the baby of the family, had her senior prom in May. Of course, we all showed up to take pictures and to see her and Brandt off to prom. Natalie had to dress in her "prom" finest as well. She insisted on wearing her sequined, ruffled dress and her new "magic amulet" beaded necklace. Natalie has become quite attached to Darragh as of late, which is really cool to see. I remember when Darragh used to pal around with me when we were first married-she was about Natalie's age then. <br />
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Finally, the boys finished the school year with their spring musical. They performed an edited version of Treasure Island. They chose to not try out for a part, but instead wanted to be part of the choir. When the sheets came home for auditions, I had sort of wanted them to do it. But, I'm glad in the end that they chose to be in the choir. I'm very proud of them, and watching them perform is so fun! <br />
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<br />Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-33641126310761181862013-03-23T17:14:00.004-04:002013-03-23T17:14:54.796-04:00Northwood Show Choir 2012-2013<br />
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This school year, Matthew and Lucas have joined the show choir at their elementary school. They are REALLY enjoying it! They have performed several times, adding a new song to their routine each performance. </div>
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Their first performance was at the Marysville High School varsity game at half time. They sang "Dynamite", and were slightly less than in step with one another. But, I was super proud nonetheless! </div>
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Then they performed at the Bunsold Middle School choir concert. They performed "Dynamite" and "Dancing in the Streets." This performance was MUCH better, and they were so cute dancing with a partner. They even got a standing ovation from the middle schoolers. It was so awesome. </div>
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A few weeks ago, we had a rally to generate excitement for the upcoming renewal levy. The district showcased some extra curricular activities, and the Northwood Show Choir was ready to perform again. They did "Dynamite" and "Dancing in the Streets" in front of a huge crowd, and this time the high school show choir was cheering them on. I love seeing the older students encouraging the little ones. Their next performance will be at their art show/spaghetti dinner in a few weeks. They're adding "Footloose" to their performance. They also have been performing at the Leadership Rally the school has each month. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucas and his friends enjoying the MHS band.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew "Dancing in the Streets"</td></tr>
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I love seeing the boys dancing and singing, and sharing their talent with others. The conversations that start, "Mommy, have you ever heard the song 'Footloose'?" are too funny! They're always amazed that I have actually heard of a song that they are singing in show choir. </div>
Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-13689842467147061682013-03-23T16:52:00.002-04:002013-03-23T16:52:18.070-04:00Playing Princess<div style="text-align: center;">
Playing "princess" is all Natalie wants to do as of late. Literally, she rolls out of bed {if it's a Saturday} and turns into Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, or Tinkerbell. But it doesn't stop there.....she adds a tiara, a sparkly necklace, another tutu, and of course some shoes. Sometimes the boa even makes it around her neck. This little girl is too much sometimes! </div>
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It's so sweet to see her floating around the house in her princess attire. In fact, it seems like I look at her late on Saturday afternoons, and just realize then that she is still in her pjs! I mean, why bother and put clothes on if you're just going to put a princess dress on over them! If it's not a Saturday, she's in her room right after we get home from the sitter to get herself all "princessfied". </div>
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Someday, she'll be out of this phase, so for right now I am thoroughly enjoying it. </div>
Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-53006068458534632862013-02-21T17:06:00.001-05:002013-02-21T17:07:20.238-05:00Matthew and Lucas Turn 10!<div style="text-align: center;">
Wow! Big double digits. I can't believe these guys are ten. Double digits. From the time they were babies, I never understood how blessed I was with these sweet guys until their birthday. So much of their early life is such a blur-trying to keep two little boys fed, dressed, changed, and out of danger takes a lot of thinking and time! </div>
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Alas, here we are and they are 10! I seriously can't believe what sweet, caring, smart, wonderful young men they are growing up to be. Here are a few fun facts about each of them:</div>
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<b>Matthew: </b> He loves all sorts of fantasy books and shows, etc. He is always using his imagination to play whatever character he is into at the time. Matthew always has a LEGO man in his hand or in his pocket, and is adding to his LEGO sets everyday. I love how he is interested in reading the Bible, and faithfully checks the verse of the week. He wants to be a SWAT team member when he grows up. </div>
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<b>Lucas:</b> Lucas is more of a chill out, want to play with LEGOS and watch tv kind of kid. He also LOVES his video games, but also enjoys playing outside. He likes his sports, and is such a sweet big brother to Natalie. Lucas is so super smart in school, and he is always wanting to read-especially realistic fiction books. He's also our eater-he loves to eat, and is growing so strong everyday. Love him! He's also growing a strong heart for the Lord, and it's so fun to see him following along in church and asking questions. </div>
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So, those are my boys! We celebrated them with an Avengers themed party this year. As much as I don't always understand the bday party themes they choose, I know someday I'll wish that we were having a themed party and that they were home celebrating their birthday with us. We had our families over for dinner, cake, and ice cream. Then, the day after we headed to SkyZone, and indoor trampoline park for their friends party. They had a great time! </div>
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Mommy and Daddy: Friends party, bikes</div>
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Grandma Connie and Papa Ron: tackle boxes, fishing gear</div>
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Grandma Patty and Grandpa Keith: digital cameras</div>
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Kristin and Joey: Amazon Kindle Fire gift cards</div>
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Devon and Christopher: Beyblades</div>
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Lindsey and Ben: Z Shot bow </div>
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Daniel and Tiffany: Wal Mart Gift cards</div>
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<br />Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-75204522885289386702013-01-31T15:05:00.004-05:002013-01-31T15:05:40.712-05:00Natalie's First Snow Day<div style="text-align: center;">
Natalie had her first chance to play in the snow. Between Christmas and New Year's, we got quite the snow fall. She begged and begged to go outside-the boys had gone to a friend's house to play in the snow, so why couldn't she? So she talked Derrick, known to her as "my friend daddy" into going out and playing. </div>
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She had the best time! She didn't last long, as it was VERY cold outside, but she had a great time. It was funny to watch her-she refused to lay down and make a snow angel, but throwing snow at daddy was super fun!</div>
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<br />Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-91104131694887848892013-01-24T22:11:00.001-05:002013-01-24T22:11:36.411-05:00Hurst Family Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew, Lucas, and baby Elly</td></tr>
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This year, we celebrated Christmas ALL.DAY.LONG at the Hurst house on New Year's Eve. So glad I love these people dearly-because we were there from about 1:00 until about....11:00. We almost rang in the New Year with them, but tired {overstimulated/hyper} kids and a headache for me led us down the road toward home shortly before midnight. </div>
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As is typical, we had a "fun" game to play in order to open gifts. This entailed choosing a Christmas trivia question from a basket, answering it, then hunting for the tag that had the answer on it. This was then revealed whose gift it was. Such fun. Yes, it was. It took forever, there were "breaks", and the boys were over hyper, but all in all it was fun. </div>
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The day/evening were of course made much more fun with the super sweet baby nieces that had their first Christmas with us-Remington and Elly. What cuties! </div>
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One of the first gifts Natalie opened was from Derrick's parents-Princess Hello Kitty pjs. Of course, even though it was about 2:00 pm, she donned them right away and didn't take them off all evening. The boys were beyond excited to get some new LEGO sets, some Terrain Twisters {which are VERY cool remote control vehicles}, and of course the ever classic Shirnky Dinks. Every kid has to have those, right? </div>
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Natalie was totally spoiled with her new Fisher Price Loving Family dollhouse-so fun! </div>
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We had a blessed, wonderful Christmas with everyone!</div>
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<br />Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-20948537859013992612012-12-31T10:00:00.000-05:002012-12-31T10:00:01.606-05:002012-A BLESSED Year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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2012 has been such a FABULOUS year for our family! We have made so many great memories this year, and our family on both sides has grown so much! Here are some of the highlights of our year {sorry, I don't have pictures of all of them :( }</div>
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*Matthew and Lucas turned 9 and passed both their blue belt AND green belt tests in karate.</div>
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*Daniel and Tiffany were married in February, and added baby Remi to our family in December.</div>
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*We enjoyed all the major holidays with our extended families-and Easter was extra sweet with the announcement of baby Brody joining us in October.</div>
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*Many wedding and baby showers were given this year-Lindsey, Sarah, Devon and Kristin were all the guests of honor!</div>
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*Lindsey and Ben were married in June-adding Wesley and Riley to our family.</div>
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*We traveled to Walt Disney World with Derrick's parents and youngest sister in June. It was truly one of our best memories of 2012! </div>
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*Darin and Sarah were married in September, and Devon and Christopher gave us baby Ellie in August.</div>
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*Natalie turned "3" in October, and Baby Brody was born just the very next day! </div>
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*Natalie enjoyed playing in her first snow fall EVER.</div>
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It was such a wonderful year for us-God is GOOD!</div>
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-65168080778322613962012-12-30T17:01:00.000-05:002012-12-30T17:01:31.444-05:00Christmas Day 2012<div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew, Natalie, and Lucas-Christmas 2012 </td></tr>
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Our family Christmas this year was so much fun! We started with Christmas Eve, and Derrick and the boys went to Omi and Opa's for lunch and gifts with Derrick's family. I was home with Natalie, who had a yucky cough and a super high fever-come to find out a few days later, she had the croup. Yuck! Nonetheless, we divided and conquered, making it to each family celebration with the boys so they wouldn't miss out on all the fun. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucas, me and Matthew ready for Christmas Eve service. </td></tr>
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They went to Omi and Opa's, and each came home very excited about their Diary of A Wimpy Kid pjs and new Star Wars Jenga games. After they got home, it was time to get them ready to participate in the Christmas Eve service at our new church-Living Word. In case you hadn't heard, Derrick got a call to Living Word Lutheran Church in Galena, OH-about 35 minutes away. We're super excited about it! And as are the members-the music director had asked if the boys wanted to participate with the other kids in reading the Christmas story from Luke 2. So, we practiced the night before and Monday night they were ready to go. Derrick stayed home with Natalie while I took the boys-I REALLY didn't want to miss out on it! The service was wonderful, and the boys did fantastic!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love the owl hat!</td></tr>
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Tuesday morning, Derrick and I were actually up well before the kids! I put together a Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole, some cinnamon rolls, and some fruit Christmas trees. We had coffee and chit chatted, waiting for them to wake up. Lucas was up first-and what a bummer because he waited at least another half an hour for Matthew to join him! We started with stockings, and they were "excited" to get the "usual"--toothpaste, deodarant, books, headphones, and other practical things in their stockings. We took a slight break for breakfast-and by this time Natalie had woken up. After her stocking was opened, we started handing out gifts to everyone-one at a time. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Matthew and Lucas excited for their Kindle Fires.</span></div>
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The boys got a lot of clothes-which they desperately needed-and also some video games. Their most "exciting" gift was a Kindle Fire, right next to their Skylanders Giants game for the XBox. Both of these things were on their "wish list", and we delivered! Natalie was kind of dragging behind, taking time between opening gifts to wipe her ever running nose! The opening went on until around 1:00. We stopped for lunch-homemade pizzas-and by now Natalie had fizzled for a nap. The boys were busy enjoying their Kindle Fires and trying out all their new video games they got. </div>
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My parents stopped by later that day to see what the kids had received. Also, Natalie wasn't done opening-because she had been napping-so they got to watch her open her fun gifts. She was very excited about her Cinderella dress, her Tinkerbell costume, and her magnetic dress up dolls. Her big gift was a V-Tech Inno Tab...in selfish hopefulness that I'll somehow regain my iPad back. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Performing with their recorders in the talent show. </td></tr>
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Later that evening, I took the boys over to Aunt Nancy and Uncle Kevin's for Christmas with my extended family-and the talent show. Matthew and Lucas performed their recorders and did a tremendous job. Uncle Kevin even joined in on Hot Cross Buns, accompanying the boys with his guitar. The crowning act was Mom and her sisters with a cute dance they had choreographed. Nothing is ever dull with our family! </div>
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We returned home, ready for bed yet excited about our fun filled day! </div>
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-76081119223911000662012-12-17T17:44:00.002-05:002012-12-17T17:44:36.452-05:00Carfrey Family Christmas-2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This year for Carfrey Family Christmas, we got together at Lindsey and Ben's house. The Carfrey family consists of my Grandma Barb, Aunt Debbie, cousins Erin & Patrick, my parents, sisters, and their families. This year, we also had David & Bailey {Erin's boyfriend and his daughter} with us.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew, Grandma Barb, Brody, Riley, Natalie, Lucas, Wesley, Bailey </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and my buddy Brody</td></tr>
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We went to Lindsey and Ben's for soups and sandwiches, and just to have a very nice time together. It was sort of the Christmas of memories. Why? Because my Grandma had moved from a house to an apartment over the summer. That meant that there were pictures and movies to be sorted through. So, my mom had her old projector movies put onto a DVD-and we watched it while we were there. It was so fun to watch these movies of my dad and his siblings when they were younger. Of course, there was no sound, to which Natalie said, "I can't hear anything on this movie." <br />
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Also, my mom had taken some very old pictures from my grandma when she moved and asked me to make a scrapbook out of them for a gift. To be honest-it wasn't as easy as I thought it would be. I mean, sorting through pictures from the 1950s and beyond was really cool. But, it was hard because I didn't really know the story behind them. However, my grandma did! And she was so excited to look through it and remember her times with my grandpa. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ben, Lindsey, and Natalie watching Doc McStuffins</td></tr>
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We ate, and visited, and of course had our traditional family picture. After they left, Kristin, Joey, Brody, and my parents stayed behind with us to continue our Christmas together. It was totally a Disney Christmas for Natalie-from her Minnie Mouse hat to her princess dolls, to her HUGE Cinderella crafting set. The boys were super thrilled to get their Air Hogs Hover Assault RC vehicles they had wanted. Couple that with some LEGO sets and clothes, and everyone was happy. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The whole Carfrey Family</td></tr>
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Derrick: OSU hoodie-Kristin and Joey, Drinking Glasses, T shirts, money-Mom and Dad<br />
Me: iTunes, Starbucks gift cards, phone case, BBW car scent port-Lindsey, Sweater, Necklace, money-mom and dad<br />
Matthew: LEGO Creator, Air Hogs Hover Assault, Shirts, Tonka Front End Loader Builder-Grandma and Grandpa; Crayola Glow Book-Lindsey and Ben; Toys R Us Gift card, WildLife book-Kristin and Joey, Target GC-Grandma Barb; Front End Loader Builder Set-Erin & David<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ONDh6R4hiY8p0IQy_a0ftlM1FCcXNb9F5XJKTwcqvvqBZt-LqWwnirokhNh8CZQ4jbWpntBUk_kk091snd1Zki4Qh_oglwEQ4iFIJLf5845oikv59udUzlwflik2d131rGQIA_UpP0k/s1600/IMG_4107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ONDh6R4hiY8p0IQy_a0ftlM1FCcXNb9F5XJKTwcqvvqBZt-LqWwnirokhNh8CZQ4jbWpntBUk_kk091snd1Zki4Qh_oglwEQ4iFIJLf5845oikv59udUzlwflik2d131rGQIA_UpP0k/s640/IMG_4107.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Lucas: LEGO Creator, Air Hogs Hover Assault, Walkie Talkies, Shirts, Tonka Front End Loader Builder-Grandma and Grandpa; Crayola Glow Book-Lindsey and Ben; Toys R Us Gift Card, Darth Paper Strikes Back-Kristin and Joey, Target GC-Grandma Barb<br />
Natalie: Pillow cases, Shirt-Grandma Barb; Minnie Mouse Backpack-Erin & David; LEGOS, clothes, shopping cart, Veggie Tales Away in a Manger book-Grandma and Grandpa; Cinderella craft set-Kristin and Joey; Tinkerbell, Sleeping Beauty & Sno White Dolls, Minnie Mouse Hat-Lindsey and Ben<br />
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It ended up being a great day. We ended up home around dinner time, just in time to feed the kids a little something and tuck them in with new books and of course the Disney princess dolls had to be tucked in at the foot of Natalie's bed. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew, Riley, Lucas, Wesley<br /></td></tr>
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<br />Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-656508831970796112012-11-17T16:20:00.001-05:002012-11-17T16:20:49.085-05:00Magic Mountain {A Mommy/Son Date Day}<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Disclaimer: I had a Groupon. Just FYI</b>.</div>
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<br style="font-size: 13px;" />Anyway, many moons ago I had purchased a Groupon for Magic Mountain. My intent was to take the boys for a fun day out, sans the little sister. Well, school started, things got busy with my sister having Brody, and before I knew it, I was getting emails telling me that my Groupons were about to expire. So, I scheduled my sweet, super awesome parents to watch Natalie while the boys and I headed out for a mommy/son date day.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXlzCo5oO_LmeDDGxbX4wknl_4OAZd-MFDWjS2t70Ix8HKT6SWQ4zGVJvYbNcnZn4NqAJwAVxOcA1h_3ykopUiRvZKUQ4ds3l4-STCVg09XK-bhuVRFqSN11UuyC7ZhozWuNW-SIYaFEE/s1600/IMG_0645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXlzCo5oO_LmeDDGxbX4wknl_4OAZd-MFDWjS2t70Ix8HKT6SWQ4zGVJvYbNcnZn4NqAJwAVxOcA1h_3ykopUiRvZKUQ4ds3l4-STCVg09XK-bhuVRFqSN11UuyC7ZhozWuNW-SIYaFEE/s400/IMG_0645.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew and Lucas on the NASCAR arcade game.<br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigYzCgPGEnGp-PI1n0-H8u6iKPcXHlf_QbtROZ1VK1tUnxSoeUXqj9s0iy3uNno0D2R7ZbZFO3iEfjDWi7kJwvD1AlbeioH4HwuOii22mg08YRCw0I-PiglF3PmXoxeVPvy9NXctRYS08/s1600/IMG_0658.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigYzCgPGEnGp-PI1n0-H8u6iKPcXHlf_QbtROZ1VK1tUnxSoeUXqj9s0iy3uNno0D2R7ZbZFO3iEfjDWi7kJwvD1AlbeioH4HwuOii22mg08YRCw0I-PiglF3PmXoxeVPvy9NXctRYS08/s400/IMG_0658.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready for their race.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1_AEtqFBYiHjTqIOAlVKB86Ws5MFB75hulNVXrp-KOzH5Nl8gjqKsBZvO2ZfcbRzZyCa0E8T-6EcrYpujWHdlt63H6Rndz-xny3r2TFtHnSDGA8uitM7WVakjC4NqNb9orRDJh9HIPYo/s1600/IMG_0654.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1_AEtqFBYiHjTqIOAlVKB86Ws5MFB75hulNVXrp-KOzH5Nl8gjqKsBZvO2ZfcbRzZyCa0E8T-6EcrYpujWHdlt63H6Rndz-xny3r2TFtHnSDGA8uitM7WVakjC4NqNb9orRDJh9HIPYo/s400/IMG_0654.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucas looks very serious about his motorcycle course. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ZsV_RlETzDBww6EZp5zenG5Z14KP5z-wq0jJLqCgrttl939cOzFIJS4_sAIvEQpbKK6eepVa_mEHhmCewQevE4w1xfSbSmbhVZWz_Rkbei0lzaEofEKoDmY68ZvXpqZxKO8Asr3UY8g/s1600/IMG_0651.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ZsV_RlETzDBww6EZp5zenG5Z14KP5z-wq0jJLqCgrttl939cOzFIJS4_sAIvEQpbKK6eepVa_mEHhmCewQevE4w1xfSbSmbhVZWz_Rkbei0lzaEofEKoDmY68ZvXpqZxKO8Asr3UY8g/s400/IMG_0651.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew riding the motorcycle.</td></tr>
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My parents came to get Natalie and went to Kristin and Joey's to baby sit for Brody for a little bit. Then, it was off to the poultry show at the fairgrounds. So while we were having a great time at Magic Mountain, Natalie was hanging with grandma and papa looking at chickens. She loved it. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiMQABPvzNHDyg5gXQDeVoX2KwrSHcLdKtzIm6o7NnTBXZVKdxaxD7qOVuQh1dh9c-idlrMMh4htOOJ_3gXJDLFc56BavLrs6tcLCgF_pcYL1qitHC0ThFwXsU8wHnwmSRwHDTX_bF-Ew/s1600/IMG_0657.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiMQABPvzNHDyg5gXQDeVoX2KwrSHcLdKtzIm6o7NnTBXZVKdxaxD7qOVuQh1dh9c-idlrMMh4htOOJ_3gXJDLFc56BavLrs6tcLCgF_pcYL1qitHC0ThFwXsU8wHnwmSRwHDTX_bF-Ew/s400/IMG_0657.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew belting up for his fast ride.</td></tr>
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We started our day with a quick trip to Kohls' to grab the boys some long sleeve shirts to hold them over until Christmas. Then, a run to Target for a few essentials, like LEGOS. They each had about $35 to spend from picking up pinecones in my parents' yard over the summer. Five cents a pinecone....and they obviously picked up a ton! So, after MUCH deliberation, they each decided on a new LEGO set, and off to lunch at Olive Garden-per their request. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnDxKorTupdIRN1KId9mnyJZ9iZAfngMBknzeg98Lz6NujAY15R2ENrzhcs9RiYVMi2yXZ9dTPIMiSu5s62byrqoJFAdBYHsnDvbHezd0vntnxWonIgY7d3tcK3yZ4MTuEt6No-9xfl0U/s1600/IMG_0664.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnDxKorTupdIRN1KId9mnyJZ9iZAfngMBknzeg98Lz6NujAY15R2ENrzhcs9RiYVMi2yXZ9dTPIMiSu5s62byrqoJFAdBYHsnDvbHezd0vntnxWonIgY7d3tcK3yZ4MTuEt6No-9xfl0U/s400/IMG_0664.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucas enjoying his ride around the go kart track</td></tr>
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Then, it was off to Magic Mountain. If you don't know what Magic Mountain is, it's an indoor arcade with laser tag, a kids gym/playset area, and then outside they have mini golf and go carts. Good times. The boys were so super excited. I got them attraction wrist bands, 30 tokens each for games, and they were off. Totally in their happy place. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcRHWI6kGn0TZbViKfsvQARfCEz9nFURpGKiYwGWNtp7ENx2mOdn4jC0vdxRX_a1V4jzsMHZjCL7es9ezDciYOT61StBoAQS2hU1YE9oizhzZKxzp-UBT0a5x6oTGTosu22FbSq-jwtIY/s1600/IMG_0669.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcRHWI6kGn0TZbViKfsvQARfCEz9nFURpGKiYwGWNtp7ENx2mOdn4jC0vdxRX_a1V4jzsMHZjCL7es9ezDciYOT61StBoAQS2hU1YE9oizhzZKxzp-UBT0a5x6oTGTosu22FbSq-jwtIY/s400/IMG_0669.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maybe if Lucas pushed his glasses up, he could see better. Just sayin'.</td></tr>
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We played arcade games for awhile, and then headed outdoors for the go karts. While they were waiting in line, they were able to scope out the "fastest" car. That would be the one Matthew scrambled to get, of course. But Lucas was happy with his, and they were off. I had to explain to them that they were NOT like the ones at Disney-no track guide, they were actually driving these cars and needed to keep from running into something. They had a blast. We went back inside to do the laser tag. Another first experience for them. But, it must have been great because they requested a laser tag birthday party.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5a-9dKa2hF6thcwh2nqJBEqQrdxDlf-FuhXTLMkYmSw5L8Ns4oEieaaJRs4xy6e_aQsxt7AvIQM80tVB6Y96nvTCqbvfDBmwWmVQe3_VrUSqsYuL1tH_1vZ9cXoQ1uCibhscZUFQU9lY/s1600/IMG_0676.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5a-9dKa2hF6thcwh2nqJBEqQrdxDlf-FuhXTLMkYmSw5L8Ns4oEieaaJRs4xy6e_aQsxt7AvIQM80tVB6Y96nvTCqbvfDBmwWmVQe3_VrUSqsYuL1tH_1vZ9cXoQ1uCibhscZUFQU9lY/s400/IMG_0676.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Finally, we finished up their arcade tokens, gathered our tickets and headed to the counter of kid utopia-aka, the cheap toys and candy that only are worth some paper tickets. We cashed them in, and got some golf balls. Let me say, if this round of mini golf is anything to go by, our family beach vacation next summer is going to be darn interesting. Mini golf is not for the impatient, fast paced, over stimulated by video games and LEGOS nine year olds. If Lucas wasn't hitting the ball too hard and pouting when it bounced off the green, he was guiding it to the hold with his club. Matthew started off a bit gently, but when he saw small molehills, you'd think the mini golf course had transformed into a driving range. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVUSC8WnEW70gW6Oepxht98Q5L8gnxELMbQLIPnzYEJBEzrZCu6bg2tR8ec0Vt1YkD0V4waGc3ODlL5_4mb3ESyN54u8TJ6RYiAA0L4pUO-JVWqRGX4126wEvu7EllcGvzpzP3uAvpVxA/s1600/IMG_0681.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVUSC8WnEW70gW6Oepxht98Q5L8gnxELMbQLIPnzYEJBEzrZCu6bg2tR8ec0Vt1YkD0V4waGc3ODlL5_4mb3ESyN54u8TJ6RYiAA0L4pUO-JVWqRGX4126wEvu7EllcGvzpzP3uAvpVxA/s400/IMG_0681.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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All in all, we had a super great day together. I love my boys!</div>
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-82589366438424688562012-11-17T15:59:00.000-05:002012-11-17T15:59:03.614-05:00Halloween 2012<div>
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Halloween 2012 was well.....cold, snowy, windy.....it was more like a nasty winter day in October. The costumes had been bought, tried on, and the boys especially were dying to wear them. So, I tried my best to seek out an indoor Halloween experience and I was successful. Thank God. I wanted the kids to have the opportunity to Trick or Treat, and get the wear out of their costumes. On Monday night of Halloween week, we found a church, via my friend on FB, who had moved their Trunk or Treat indoors. </div>
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Trunk or Treat is basically when cars circle up, decorate their trunks, and hand out candy in a safe, family friendly environment usually in a church parking lot. Northwest Bible Church had moved theirs indoors, SCORE! Yes, on a school night I bundled up the kids in costume, and drove 30 minutes to do trick or treat. I know, mom of the year right here. I figured my bases were covered-they got to wear their costumes, get candy, popcorn, glow sticks, and get tired out-just in case Wednesday didn't present itself as an optimal trick or treat night. </div>
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Well, as it turns out, Wednesday did turn out to be okay. I had invited my in laws over to trick or treat with us, hand out candy, and hang out. Love them....you know I REALLY adore these people. Normally my parents come over as well, but they were at my sister's house, snuggling with their new grandson Brody. They really had the good end of the deal!</div>
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Darin stationed himself on the porch with ear muffs on and candy basket by his side. Patty and the boys were off, and so Natalie and I started out, and Keith was hanging out with Christopher and Elly. There was no way Natalie and I were going to catch up with the boys and Patty, so we just did our own thing for a few houses, until we had to go home to clean up owl poo...yea, the potty training thing isn't always working out. Anyway, after she got cleaned up and ready to go again, it was dark. So, we hit about eight more houses, which took a good 45 minutes because three year olds don't walk very fast....and then she was asking to go home. Gladly. It was cold, windy, and I was more than ready to go inside. </div>
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Meanwhile, Darragh {aka Wonder Woman} and Brandt {aka ELF....yea, looked JUST like Wil Ferrell}, had met up with the boys and had disappeared into the trick or treating abyss of Mill Valley. They returned, a long time later, with way more candy than we gave out, red cheeked, and no coats on. Nice. All in all, it ended up being a great Halloween!</div>
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-52505226300860220882012-11-17T15:38:00.000-05:002012-11-17T15:38:14.219-05:00Jacquemin Farms with the Larsons<br />
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It was a super beautiful, sunny fall day, so the kids and I decided to go to Jacquemin Farms to meet up with some friends. Brian and Sarah Larson are Natalie's god parents, but all of our kids get along so great together. They have a first grader and a third grader, and they all play so nicely together. Jacquemin Farms is a small pumpkin farm, about 15 minutes from our house. They have a small straw maze, a corn box {in lieu of a sandbox}, some bouncy play things, and of course pumpkins. </div>
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But, our kids don't go there for the pumpkins.....we go for the pumpkin donuts. We came home with two dozen of the BEST homemade pumpkin donuts ever. We only got one dozen last year, so this year we for sure needed more.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Natalie watching for the tractor and wagon to pick us up.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ1cxiH2EbjGUM4QWD8xH3T7sWSNcl1Jt74a2KDfME7f5APg3o8_hHRZNYEz9OI860wBwFATUGjCAfG07Yz6CoZYEHAt3OMaYIL6a0MIz_pzk4lJXzGhk9H_nixYACGQ_4qj4qyd6puPc/s1600/IMG_0596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ1cxiH2EbjGUM4QWD8xH3T7sWSNcl1Jt74a2KDfME7f5APg3o8_hHRZNYEz9OI860wBwFATUGjCAfG07Yz6CoZYEHAt3OMaYIL6a0MIz_pzk4lJXzGhk9H_nixYACGQ_4qj4qyd6puPc/s400/IMG_0596.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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We went on the straw ride out to the pumpkin patch, just for the experience. We didn't need to pick pumpkins because my parents had grown some in their garden this year and we were well stocked. So Sarah and I chatted for a LONG time while Natalie was playing in the corn. She was happy while Noah, Eliana, Matthew, and Lucas scrambled around the bouncy things, the straw maze, and begging for drinks and snacks. It was a good time. It ended up being an extremely warm and nice day, and we had a ton of fun!</div>
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-91765347702587148862012-11-03T13:30:00.000-04:002012-11-03T13:30:05.180-04:00Natalie Turns Three<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We celebrated Natalie's third birthday on October 21 at our house, with both sides of our family. We opted for an after church, late afternoon party in hopes that she would have a nap....not so much. Oh well! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Her theme was a black/hot pink Minnie Mouse theme. Such fun! Although, as she was opening her presents and getting one Disney princess gift after another, I kinda thought maybe we should've gone the Princess route :). Oh well, there's always next year! Of course I had to make her a tutu, and I also had ordered her a shirt from at Etsy shop that turned out absolutely adorable! Loved it! She sweetly asked me to read each card as she was opening her gifts. She even has the hang of holding new clothes up for a picture!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We served appetizers, cupcakes, and ice cream. Natalie is such a sweetie at three years old. We're just starting the potty training thing, and it's going okay. She loves playing with her baby dolls, and checking their diapers to see if they need changed. In fact, sometimes the babies even need to try on the potty! At least she's learning something. I love how she is recognizing the forgiveness idea. When we have a bedtime struggle or she doesn't want to cooperate, she'll come to me later and tell me she's sorry for what she's done. Then we have a hug and say "I forgive you." It's so sweet.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuB6O9E-SnSHQXDRshT2hz_2bbgIypD9dVu4J__0Ys-0n8ekH9acs69_KZFc-RyrFel85ZHEflPVmmfi8qSDyRj8d_ro_nHVxUho3DyxkqR9FBPInAIZsVYAwJ4mBvmhyh62BLj9ZrdAg/s1600/IMG_3877.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuB6O9E-SnSHQXDRshT2hz_2bbgIypD9dVu4J__0Ys-0n8ekH9acs69_KZFc-RyrFel85ZHEflPVmmfi8qSDyRj8d_ro_nHVxUho3DyxkqR9FBPInAIZsVYAwJ4mBvmhyh62BLj9ZrdAg/s640/IMG_3877.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">She could sit and watch Disney Junior all day. She knows all the words to Jake and the Neverland Pirates, Doc McStuffins, and Little Einsteins theme songs. She's all about going to Sunday School with Ms. Robbie, and comes barreling through the door of the office, to the living room, to show off her Sunday School papers. She's in a twin size bed, and doing wonderfully in it. She'll eat just about anything we give her, but is starting to gain quite the affection for snacky foods and candy. Natalie always makes sure to ask for a sucker when we go to the bank :).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We had such a wonderful time celebrating her with our families. She's our special princess!</span></div>
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-31719217847708417132012-10-20T18:00:00.000-04:002012-10-20T18:00:14.312-04:00Disney's Hollywood Studios<br />
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This trip, we had timed it so we would be at Disney for Star Wars Weekends. Basically, this is when Disney has special events at Hollywood Studios involving Star Wars. There are celebrities to sign autographs, a special parade, and people {like tourists} walking around in Star Wars get ups. It's kinda creepy to be honest, but the boys thoroughly enjoy it. Storm troopers guard the entrance, Darth Vader, Chewbacca, Annakin, and Obi Wan are in meet and greet spots for autographs, and Minnie and Mickey are dressed in their Star Wars costumes, too.</div>
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Anyway, we hit this park on Sunday, knowing it was Star Wars Weekend. We didn't make it in time to sign up for the Jedi Training Academy, much to the boys' disappointment. However, we did get to see the first Indian Jones show of the day. After this, we made our way onto Star Tours. </div>
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I have to say, not my favorite ride. Simulation rides usually don't bother me, but I always feel like I'm gonna lose my breakfast after riding this one. Alas, the things we do for our kids. So, Derrick stayed back with Natalie, and Keith, Patty, Darragh, and I rode with the boys. Next it was on to Toy Story Mania....one of our favorite rides in all of Disney World. Natalie even got into it and was shooting at the games. She had a lot of fun on this one. We did lunch at ABC Commissary, which was rather good. This park was super crowded this day, because of SWW, so we decided to divide and conquer.</div>
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We did the Disney Junior Live on Stage, again something Natalie thoroughly enjoyed. All her favorite characters from Disney, Jr. were right in front of her eyes. Jake and the Pirates, Little Einsteins, and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse all did numbers from their shows. She was clapping her hands, having a great time! While we were in the show, Keith, Patty and Darragh stood in line for the Little Mermaid Show. We were trying to do as much for Natalie as we could while she was still awake. We all loved this one, too. The shows at Disney are definitely awesome...short Broadway versions. By this time, Natalie was ready for a nap. </div>
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It started to rain and storm, so we got on the Great Movie Ride. Granted, not the most exhilarating attraction at Disney, but I have to say I love it. It's so fun to ride through the scenes of the classic movies, and the Wizard of Oz one is my favorite. Alien.....not my favorite. We exited this attraction in time to hit the Lights, Motor Action Stunt show. </div>
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Disney really needs to run this show more times-it only performs three times a day. So, we made it to the last one....and just as it started, it began to thunder and lightning. Yea, that was GREAT experience packed in with freaking out people, most who weren't speaking English, on aluminum bleachers. But, we survived. Since the show was cancelled, we started to make our way toward Tower of Terror.</div>
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Now, the boys have NEVER ridden this ride, and refuse {loudly} to do so each time we visit Disney. But, Grandma Patty can get them to do anything, and the promise of a pin for their lanyards was an added bonus. We hopped on, getting a rider switch pass for Derrick to go with them next time. They were fine in line while we adults chit chatted. Then, as we got closer to the ride entrance...they started to freak out a little. It's a free fall "elevator" that drops, stops, goes up, drops a little further, drops again, and then finally drops again to the bottom. Lucas was hilarious....the picture says it all. But, I think they'll ride it again, or at least I hope so. </div>
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Since we were right there, we did the Beauty and the Beast show. Loved it! Natalie was VERY into it, and captivated the whole time. I love shows like that. They're so well done, and the music is awesome. </div>
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Rockin' Rollercoaster was next. Love this one!!! Disney only has a handful of rollercoasters, but this is my favorite. The boys were NOT getting on, because they were chickens. So, Derrick got them a snack while I rode with my in laws. Oh my gosh. Hilarious doesn't even describe it. Keith was my seat mate. And he {I'm laughing as I type this now because it was so funny}, was absolutely hilarious. As soon as it took off, all I heard the whole ride was, "Oh my God!" "Oh mother!". "Holy crap!", and on and on. When we finally stopped, he looked at me and said, "I think I peed myself.". Oh my. If you know my father in law, you know how hilarious he can be. It was soooo funny! I was laughing so hard I was crying and couldn't stop. </div>
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We decided to call it a night, because it was starting to storm again. So, it was back to the resort for some dinner and relaxing before our next Magic Kingdom day. </div>
Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-22099747319685832652012-09-22T13:29:00.000-04:002012-09-22T13:29:04.018-04:00Magic Kingdom Day 1<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Magic Kingdom is by far our family's favorite park. I think we love it so much because there is something there for all of us to do....and seeing Derrick tour it and hit almost everything in one day is kind of fun. He's quite the Magic Kingdom tour guide. </span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Anyway, on our first day at Magic Kingdom, we had breakfast at the Crystal Palace. This is where you can eat with Pooh, Tigger, and all of their friends. Such fun! We had a reservation before the park even opened....which was a good trick on my part. It was so awesome to walk down Main Street USA with no crowds. We got some awesome pictures, too. Breakfast was soooo good. I had way too many Pooh's Puffed French Toast {I felt like Pooh bear after eating it}, and we really took our time eating and enjoying our morning. The characters made their way to our table at a pretty constant rate. </span> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXfEFeejFXqBE-2GOUbUoUYNE0i5DU2RaEiJQhd0sZWkc6GIws3cj4fiX8ulEK23OVZ9cnpGyViuuHuEWwDAvaqGF58MvmzVgrVCcu11IjIxkXmwRFrbb_n701j2y4VcKl61SMdQNQfcs/s1600/DSC05872.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXfEFeejFXqBE-2GOUbUoUYNE0i5DU2RaEiJQhd0sZWkc6GIws3cj4fiX8ulEK23OVZ9cnpGyViuuHuEWwDAvaqGF58MvmzVgrVCcu11IjIxkXmwRFrbb_n701j2y4VcKl61SMdQNQfcs/s400/DSC05872.JPG" width="380" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Every so often, Tigger leads the kids at the restaurant in a Friendship Day Parade. They march around the tables, singing and dancing. This breakfast was really one of the highlights of our trip. After we ate, we made our way through the park. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmhafyuLq4zTaTjHF8L5GvHL9_2WY5gqaqxSsvuYo10NCW23maUtfbDjPHnHMJQOLK6aNiC5G8k3VBW-kY3EkyYfRKRxqXq6pLhTJtbUC5JVJS8OmHFlo4PnEI_2FHZcRrzoTaNmTtqo4/s1600/DSC05904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmhafyuLq4zTaTjHF8L5GvHL9_2WY5gqaqxSsvuYo10NCW23maUtfbDjPHnHMJQOLK6aNiC5G8k3VBW-kY3EkyYfRKRxqXq6pLhTJtbUC5JVJS8OmHFlo4PnEI_2FHZcRrzoTaNmTtqo4/s400/DSC05904.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Our first stop, like it always is, was Adventureland. We hit Aladdin's Magic Carpets, the Jungle Cruise, and The Tiki Room right away. The boys made their way through the Swiss Family Treehouse with everyone, while I stayed behind with Natalie. Come to think of it, I never did make it through the treehouse this trip...oh well, there's always next time, right? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">While we were on the Jungle Cruise, Matthew got chosen to be the "captain" of the ship. Basically, he gets to steer the boat while the narrator goes on with his corny {and funny} jokes. He was sooo pumped, because he had been chosen on a past trip to do the same thing. Poor Lucas....we rode the Jungle Cruise at least two more times while we were there, and he didn't get to be a Junior Skipper. I hope he gets picked someday!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After that, we hit Frontierland and Splash Mountain. I have to say, this is one of my absolute favorite rides...but not when you get stuck on it! We had made our way through the majority of the ride, and then it stopped. We sat there forever, the boys whining, Keith singing "Song of the South", and Derrick texting his mom and Darragh that we were stuck. Finally it got going!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Fantasyland was awesome. Natalie absolutely loved It's a Small World and Cinderella's Carousel. She was so cute on these! We made our way to Mickey's Philharmagic {the boys STILL won't wear the 3D glasses} and Natalie thoroughly enjoyed it. She even put the glasses on for a little bit. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Natalie and Derrick played while waiting for The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, and then we hit Dumbo. For some reason, that ride is one of my favorites. It kind of gives me chills when we ride it...Disney classic and whimsical I guess. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Since it was another rainy day, we made our way back to the resort for dinner and some evening entertainment-in other words, Natalie read her stories to us and sang random songs before bed. Good times</span>!</div>
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<br />Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-56590548794655143612012-08-21T08:30:00.001-04:002012-08-21T08:30:14.027-04:00First Day of Fourth Grade<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew, Mrs. Smith, and Lucas. </td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm interrupting our Disney trip recap with a short post of the first day of school. Matthew and Lucas are getting ready to head to their first day of fourth grade. This means the last year they will be in their elementary school building before heading to the intermediate school next year. Wow!</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew ready for fourth grade.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I always am so emotional the first few days leading up to and the first day of school. I just can't fathom them growing up. I remember clearly their first day of first grade. I remember Matthew coming home telling me his teacher had read the Kissing Hand, and how he wanted me to kiss his hand before he went to school each day. That lasted for about a week or so :). But nonetheless, they've grown up and have moved through the grades, and now fourth grade faces us. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My little buddies, my 4 lb 14 oz and 5 lb 14 oz guys have grown up to fourth graders. Wow! I better stop writing, because I'm starting to cry :). </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucas ready for fourth grade.<br /><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I hope you guys know how much I love you. I am so excited to see you continue to grow and change into the awesome young men that God will make you. I pray each day that you will be a blessing and a witness to others while at school. Remember, God is always with you!<br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTz5E7KmbnOJSDp1QSq4YqnmztBQVXNspsGMZWNxGeoeOTfUAA4EFIH09eoCGW2kuaLuKIaTUa6Sf8ZrJtrVlIGA6_ZjgdcAct-dPBRs1ufV6k1yCVq_GG5pZXh3MJs_H1kw8yc2kUzEo/s1600/IMG_3114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTz5E7KmbnOJSDp1QSq4YqnmztBQVXNspsGMZWNxGeoeOTfUAA4EFIH09eoCGW2kuaLuKIaTUa6Sf8ZrJtrVlIGA6_ZjgdcAct-dPBRs1ufV6k1yCVq_GG5pZXh3MJs_H1kw8yc2kUzEo/s640/IMG_3114.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-36823551693081821902012-08-17T15:20:00.000-04:002012-08-17T15:20:32.043-04:00Animal Kingdom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Animal Kingdom isn't a park we normally visit. However, since the greatest in laws on the face of the earth were along for vacation, and they wanted to visit, it was easy to work it into our plans. Once we got there, I had forgotten how much I really like it. We even saw Devine. Devine is a lady who dresses like a vine, is REALLY tall, and sticks herself into the greenery. If you notice her, it's awesome. She sort of obscure and is usually out for an hour or so a day. Darragh spotted her and pointed her out to me. I wish I had gotten a picture. </span><div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Anyway, when we got to AK, it was just in time for the Festival of the Lion King. Since it was looking like rain, we headed to the show and got in just as the doors were opening. I absolutely love this show at Disney. I love the music, the costumes and floats are amazing, and it's so fun! I love how they get the crowd involved and each section is a different animal and makes sounds. The performers on stilts, impersonating giraffes, are amazing. I can't imagine how they can walk and dance on those things. But, it's Disney, right? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After Festival of the Lion King, we got in line for the Kilimanjaro Safari ride. Love this one! It's one of our favorite things at AK. You get in a safari bus, and it takes you out into an African savannah with a ton of animals. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We saw giraffes, lions, rhinos, elephants, etc. They can't come up to your bus, but you sure can get some good pictures of them. We had bought the boys each a disposable camera. I think they used the majority of their pictures on the safari ride! Of course, Natalie slept through the entire ride. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We headed out toward Asia to get something to eat. The boys ended up eating corn dogs-who knew? I've never known the two of them to eat a corn dog in their life. But whatever. Anyway, we grabbed something to eat from Flame Tree BBQ and then it was off to ride the Kali River Rapids. This is a huge, round boat and you get so soaked. Well, we had our handy dandy ponchos (and it wasn't raining at that moment), but you better bet I put mine on! Derrick sat out with Natalie, planning to use our rider switch pass for Kali River later. Little did we know, it would start raining (and NOT stop) so he never got to ride :(. Well, it was a super fun ride, one we had never done before. When we exited the ride, it was kind of raining, but that didn't stop us. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We made our way to Expedition Everest. First, it describes the tale of the Yeti. And if I answered the question once, I answered it a million times-No boys, the Yeti isn't real! But, as you are waiting, there are some really cool artifacts and drawings of the Yeti and climbs of Mount Everest. Suffice it to say, no amount of bribery could get Matthew on Expedition Everest, and Lucas only rode because of some serious encouragement from Grandma Patty and a bribe of a pin from me. He was NOT thrilled, but he rode it anyway! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">By the time we exited Everest, it was raining pretty steady. Like, coming down in sheets and it was very cloudy. Pretty sure it wasn't going to stop. Anyway, Mickey's Jammin' Jungle Parade was about to start, and I was determined to see it. I've never seen it before, and we had a good spot to watch it. Even though it was raining, I still really wanted to wait to see it. Then, it got delayed for like 20 minutes. But, we held firm, and squished, in our good front row spot. Totally worth it. Every character that came down the parade route, who was walking, gave the boys and/or Natalie a high five. The parade vehicles are like cycle rickshaws, and there were the giraffe people on stilts again. Awesome! We tried to do Kali River Rapids again, but it was closed because of the rain. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So, we headed down a walking path, hoping to catch a glimpse of some animals. Matthew REALLY wanted a picture of a komodo dragon, and we found one to take a picture of. He was beyond excited. It was getting to be late afternoon, so we decided to call it a day. In the down right pouring rain, we made our way to the exit, but not without a stop at It's Tough to be a Bug. Now, if any of you may recall, this attraction pretty much ruined our very first trip to Disney, when the boys were four. We knew nothing about the attraction back then, and assumed the boys would love it. WRONG! It freaked them out and we had to leave a few minutes into it. After that, it was tough bribery to get them on ANYTHING dark at Disney. Fast forward to 2012. We told them we were going to see It's Tough to be a Bug, and they got in line without any fuss. Granted, a huge spider and bugs crawling under your back side can be a little freaky. And not to mention when the stinkbug lets out his gas. However, they did enjoy it, without their 3D glasses on. After that, we hit the buses and went back to the resort. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We ended up ordering pizzas that night and hanging out in the room. Even Wishes, Illuminations, the Main Street Electrical Parade, and Fantasmic were cancelled or delayed because it was storming so very badly. This was the most rain we've had on a Disney vacation, and it didn't really get sunny until our last days there :(. </span></div>
Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-89004075666564605052012-08-17T09:00:00.000-04:002012-08-17T09:00:08.499-04:00EPCOT-Our First Park<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The first park we toured was EPCOT. We could take the monorail from the Grand Floridian to EPCOT. This was a really neat experience. We've ridden the monorail route almost every trip. But, it was fun to take it from the resort to a park. What's kind of fun about the monorail route to EPCOT is that it actually goes through part of the EPCOT park before dropping you off. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The day started.....and ended....rainy. But oh well. We ponchoed up and carried on! Our first stop was Spaceship Earth (aka the "big golf ball"). There was practically no wait for this, and that was the case for most of our trip. After Spaceship Earth, we made our way to The Seas with Nemo and Friends. I have to be honest-I love that ride! You feel like you are under the sea, with Nemo and his friends rushing along to tell you the Nemo story. Riding in the clam shell is so fun. When we exited, we looked at the manatees and other sea animals in the Living Seas building. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The boys holding up the ball. Love looking at pictures of this same pose from every trip.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Next, we hopped on Living with the Land. Not gonna lie....love this one too. This is a boat ride where they show you how they grow different plants and crops in unique ways. Disney actually grows the majority of their vegetables and fruits that they serve in the parks. The boys love Living with the Land-it's chock full of information, that's for sure!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We also hit Club Cool. This is sponsored by Coca Cola. It's kinda fun, because you can sample Coke from all over the world. And let me tell you, it doesn't all taste the same! It was funny to watch the boys take a sample, then after making a face that they didn't like it, put on a straight face and try to get one of us to drink it. Natalie and I were particularly enjoying the Mezzo Mix from Mexico. It was orangey, fruity Coke. The Italian version-Beverly-is nasty. Just to forewarn you. But, I think everyone should try it :).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was raining soooo very hard for part of our day at EPCOT, and rained off and on all day. Finally, after making it through World Showcase, we gave in and bought ponchos. Good thing, because we wore them for the next three days. It got to the point where I would cringe if I felt even a small drop of water because we were so tired of being wet. </span> </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew and Grandpa<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkfxaQiFLGTt2bmF34IURDJ-HXBwkgDNPQsB3Qocni9rnJfdO1HO5OJ5wI6Eh967xWSNp4y1gJhHsQ13q__SDuv7l-Oi6txqU6v8KuTtFJPKog79Bfv4QXwHh1l1q4UAUgRGShcKt-17I/s1600/DSC05738.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkfxaQiFLGTt2bmF34IURDJ-HXBwkgDNPQsB3Qocni9rnJfdO1HO5OJ5wI6Eh967xWSNp4y1gJhHsQ13q__SDuv7l-Oi6txqU6v8KuTtFJPKog79Bfv4QXwHh1l1q4UAUgRGShcKt-17I/s400/DSC05738.JPG" width="391" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">Lucas not very excited! Matthew is all smiles.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">While Grandma, Grandpa, and Darragh stayed with Natalie, we rode Soarin'. Love this ride! And I recently learned it was modeled after an erector set. Cool! Anyway, it's a simulator of a hang glider. It was brought here from Disneyland, so when you are "soaring", you are hang gliding over the Pacific Ocean, orange groves, mountains, gold courses, and it ends with the fireworks show from Disneyland....right in front of your face. Lucas isn't a huge fan of this ride, but he went on with good spirits. Actually, there was bribery involved, too. I told him he could get a Soarin' pin for his lanyard if he went on it without too much fuss. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">World Showcase is getting more fun as the boys get older. They, especially Matthew, are getting more interested in world history and other countries. So, they weren't too bored this time. Since it was raining, we did more walking in the shops than we usually do. As we walked through the United Kingdom shops, we saw a line of people waiting for a character. Well, come to find out that Mary Poppins was going to make an appearance in a few short minutes. So, I put Derrick in line to wait for Mary, and the rest of us stepped a few feet over to meet Alice in Wonderland and Pooh and Tigger. It was so fun! Alice noticed that the boys were twins, and referred to them as the Tweedles, which we do at home sometimes. She chit chatted with Natalie a lot of the time, and was so sweet to her. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Finally, after I was waiting on the edge of my seat, Mary Poppins came out. I was soooo pumped! Mary Poppins is my FAVORITE Disney movie that has live actors. Sweet! Admittedly, I really wanted to meet Mary, so that's why I made Derrick stand in line for me :). Mary was so perfect! She almost had my father in law singing Chim Chim Cheeree while we were getting pictures taken with her. The boys could've cared less, but I was so in my element. One thing I loved about it was how she chit chatted with Keith....love it when Disney involves the adults, too.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We stopped in Norway for a cinnamon roll treat for the boys, and ventured our way around the Lagoon. Mexico is my favorite pavilion-mainly because of the decor and the pretty fountain. You feel like you are in a Mexican street market. Someday, I want to eat at the restaurant in there. After some dinner, we got a sweet spot to watch Illuminations. The kids and I hung out and saved our spot while Derrick and his parents grabbed some dinner. The boys had Mickey Ice Cream bars, and Natalie and I broke out the glow bracelets. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Overall, even though it started out rainy, it was a super awesome day. Now that I'm writing about it, we sure did do a lot at EPCOT!</span><br />
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<br />Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-18190186908615984032012-08-16T15:53:00.000-04:002012-08-16T15:53:13.933-04:00Dinner at Chef Mickey's-Awesome!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So after our resort relocation, we explored the Grand Floridian and got settled in our rooms before heading out to dinner. We had reservations for Chef Mickey's for dinner. We always say we want to do a character meal when we are at Disney. Finally, after three times of saying it, we actually did it! I didn't make our reservation until about 60 days out, so I was super excited to get a dinner time. Typically, Disney suggests you make reservations for character meals, or any other table service restaurant, 180 days in advance. So, I was beyond excited to get a dinner time, at a decent time (7:40) for Chef Mickey's.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Chef Mickey's is in the Contemporary Resort, just outside of the Magic Kingdom. So after dressing in our Disney themed t-shirts {Derrick and I had made a trip to the Disney store before we left for shirts for all} we hopped on the monorail and took it over to the Contemporary. Upon arriving and checking in at the reservation desk, we were led to a statue of Mickey in a chef costume. A photographer took our photo, and then we were seated at our table. This was a dinner buffet, so there were plenty of options for everyone. There was also a dessert buffet, and the boys thoroughly enjoyed their ice cream sundaes!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Part way through dinner, they start playing a fun song and the characters come out and dance. Also, everyone gets into the spirit by waving their white cloth napkins in the air. It was pretty cute. Then, the characters start to make their way to each table to pose for pictures and sign autograph books. At Chef Mickey's, it's the Fab Five-Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Pluto, and Goofy. Such fun!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM5sewNLU-c4NgNDovAUOFH-v64QDrQB6GunmKue7RCIgZwbAo8wtAgpkL5SMGZuRS8l24TXd9_nIhpy7udpWQSHmLjVnUA-4hfmq-Jc4nOa8GTCLNVvCTXo9wYz-jiSnGdeaik5JgNbQ/s1600/IMG_2446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM5sewNLU-c4NgNDovAUOFH-v64QDrQB6GunmKue7RCIgZwbAo8wtAgpkL5SMGZuRS8l24TXd9_nIhpy7udpWQSHmLjVnUA-4hfmq-Jc4nOa8GTCLNVvCTXo9wYz-jiSnGdeaik5JgNbQ/s640/IMG_2446.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Anyway, Donald Duck was the first one to our table. The boys and Natalie quickly made sure he signed their books, and posed for the mandatory pictures that I was taking. Natalie was absolutely thrilled about Donald, as Derrick had just gotten her a stuffed Daisy, so she was a bit on the "ducks" kick. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Next came Goofy. Natalie wasn't sure about him. He's pretty tall, and of course his nose sticks out. She kinda kept her distance, but the boys were very excited. Goofy even got Darragh and Grandma Patty out of their seats for a picture. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Along came Minnie. Then, Natalie was pumped. I had dressed her in a red with white polka dots dress from Gymboree. It look just like a Minnie dress, and I had gotten it just so she could wear it to dinner at Chef Mickey's. Well, Minnie made all over Natalie for being dressed just like her. It was so cute that Minnie noticed right away that she and Natalie had on a similar dress. We had some awesome interaction with Minnie. I love Natalie's face while Minnie was at our table.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mickey, Natalie's second favorite character, made his rounds next. The boys were pretty excited about him, too. Even Darragh got a picture with the Mouse. I have to say, I love Mickey. I always have! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Finally, Pluto came to our table. He was so cute. I love how he holds the autograph book on the end of his nose to sign. So fun! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All in all, it was a wonderful dinner, and super fun experience for the kids. We for sure made a good choice by starting our trip with a character meal with the classic Disney characters. It made some awesome memories! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Finally, we ended our evening back at the Grand Floridian. At the boat dock, just outside our resort building, we could watch Wishes. It was so wonderful, because they pipe the soundtrack and Jiminy Cricket's narration through the speakers at the Grand Floridian. That's part of the awesomeness of the fireworks. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Natalie enjoying Wishes with grandma. I hope they both remember that forever.<br /></td></tr>
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<br />Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3535235798509511557.post-86457732614522694882012-08-12T09:00:00.000-04:002012-08-12T09:00:00.396-04:00Walt Disney World 2012-Our Arrival at the World<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucas, Natalie, and Matthew at the Wilderness Lodge.</td></tr>
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So, after our fiasco with the Hampton, we were more than ready to get to our Disney resort. We were also super ready to start our vacation.....Derrick's parents and his youngest sister had also made the drive to vacation withs us, and we were going to meet up with them later in the day at our resort-Disney's Wilderness Lodge. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Disney's Wilderness Lodge. This view is from the pool area. There is a huge lake, Bay Lake, behind me.</td></tr>
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So, we packed up from the Caribe Royale and made our way over to the Walt Disney World Resort. Our rooms were at the Wilderness Lodge. We had adjoining rooms, one with bunk beds and a queen for us and the other with two queens for Derrick's family {aka the best in laws EVER!} <i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclaimer: I am not just saying that, I truly love his family. I have been wanting them to take a Disney vacation with us since forever....and was sooo glad they did. And yes, I still love them even after a week of vacation with them!</span></i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Part of the lobby at the Wilderness Lodge.</td></tr>
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Since our rooms weren't ready yet-we were there shortly before lunch and check in wasn't until 3-we spent some time exploring the Wilderness Lodge. The pool area was awesome, and there was so much greenery and "wilderness" growing all over the property. It was gorgeous. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Natalie hitching a ride on Daddy's shoulders. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew, Lucas, and I on the "beach". </td></tr>
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We found the boat dock that would take us to the Magic Kingdom, and walked along the "beach" area. Natalie wasn't so fond of walking in the sand....we'll see how that goes next summer on our vacation with my family to the beach :). We roamed the gift shop and found where the restaurant was. I can't tell you how gorgeous the inside of this resort was! Soooo beautiful! <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucas and Derrick relaxing in the rocking chairs.</td></tr>
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You really felt like you were in a lodge somewhere in Yosemite. It was awesome! Finally it was time to check into our rooms. We were so pleased with our rooms, and we set the kids to work decorating the sliding glass window with some Disney window clings I had picked up before we left. Derrick's parents finally made it and we greeted them with huge smiles and hugs. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucas drew a heart in the sand and wrote "MOM" in the middle. Love that kid!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Natalie and Daisy making another run across the bridge while we were waiting for our room.</td></tr>
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After we were fairly settled in our rooms, we had some lunch at the Roaring Fork Cafe. And then, it started to rain. A lot. So, I took the boys to the indoor play area where they do crafts and games for the resort guests and Derrick took Natalie to the room to nap. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucas killing time while it was raining. That day's craft was a crown. </td></tr>
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When he got back to the room, he realized our air conditioning wasn't getting any cooler. So, he called the desk and they sent someone to look at it. While we were hanging out and Natalie was napping, Derrick's dad mentioned that he had always wanted to stay at the Grand Floridian, which is a landmark of Disney resorts. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucas, Natalie, Matthew and I hanging out in the lodge.</td></tr>
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Gorgeous, just around the corner from the Wilderness Lodge, and one of the stops we were going to make while resort hopping. We had just been talking about resort hopping some of the monorail resorts that were right there in our area. Since we were staying at Wilderness Lodge and having dinner later that night at the Contemporary, that just left the Polynesian and Grand Floridian to explore. As we were talking about this, the phone rang in our room. It was a cast member from the resort telling us that our air conditioning unit in our room was in need of being entirely replaced and that Disney could move us to the Grand Floridian if that was okay. OKAY??? Heck yes! We packed up ASAP....not that there was anything wrong with the Wilderness Lodge, and it was one we had always wanted to stay at. But, we needed to vacate our room, and they were offering to send us over to the GF. We didn't argue about that! <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lobby of the Grand Floridian. There is a live jazz band on the second floor every day. </td></tr>
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The Grand Floridian is a Victorian theme resort. It's where a lot of weddings take place at Disney, too. There's a wedding pavilion and a small beach area where people come to get married. In fact, while we were there, we saw two weddings being photographed. It's also a monorail resort, which means we could take the train to the Magic Kingdom & EPCOT. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This little cutie was waiting for us in our room. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the buildings at the Grand Floridian. This is the view straight out of our balcony.</td></tr>
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It's a resort we often long to stay at, but can't justify the cost-not gonna lie, it's the most expensive one at Disney, and when it comes down to it, we choose something else. So, we felt super privileged to be staying there. Disney was so awesome with it. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If we looked out, leaned over to the right, we could see Cinderella's Castle from our balcony of our room.</td></tr>
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They moved all our stuff for us, and the sleeping arrangements were great. We had adjoining rooms, each with two queen beds, an junior day bed, and a pack and play for Natalie. We had plenty of room to spread out and the boys took turns sleeping in Grandma and Grandpa's room each night. So, we got to explore the Widerness Lodge-which we still want to stay at sometime-and stay at the Grand Floridian. Sweet!<br />
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Carriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02308186977428589159noreply@blogger.com0