Papa & Grandma Smith Visit Texas

Andy's parents came to visit us this month for about 10 days. The kids LOVED having them here. We enjoyed spending time with them and making new memories with them. While they were here we tried to go on some fun adventures. We also enjoyed just spending time together at our house or the Mackay's. It was a very nice visit!

The second day they were here, Rachel had early dismissal for parent/teacher conferences. So, I ducked out of an actual in-person conference and we took advantage of Rachel being out of school by 11 AM and headed to the zoo. The weather was a little bit chilly, but we still had plenty of fun. Here are some pictures of our zoo visit:

Ian and Landon being pulled around in the wagon by Papa:

The five Texas cousins:

Papa also got to pull the three big kids around:

Ian checking out the animals:

The Petting Zoo:

Our three gophers:

After spending quite a few hours in the zoo we took a train ride around Hermann Park. I love this picture of these three:

Ian and Landon on the train:

One afternoon we went to a neighborhood park. At one time everyone, but Landon (who was sleeping in the car with Aunt Natalie) were being pushed by Papa and Grandma:

Ian LOVES the swing:

On Saturday, when Criag and Andy could actually join us, we headed to Kemah Boardwalk. Andy and I had gone years ago when we first moved to Texas. We just had dinner and I remember not being that impressed. So, I wasn't sure what to expect... But we LOVED it. The kids had a lot of fun and we had great coupon deals. We got there just in time for lunch. So, we ate some lunch and then headed in to ride the rides. We spent the rest of the day just having fun! Here are some pictures of our fun there:

Everyone loved the carousel ride:

Big  Ferris Wheel:

Little Ferris Wheel:

Airplane ride with Daddy:

This monkey ride ended up becoming a favorite. The kids went on it again and again and again. At first, Rachel didn't want to go on it, so just Audrey and Chase went. And then Rachel got brave and tried it and LOVED it. Nothing like a little peer pressure, especially from 4 year-olds...

Excited about the train ride:

On our last full day with the grandparents we decided to go to the Children's Museum after school. The kids had lots of fun at the grocery store, playing veterinarian, at the restaurant, painting, and lots more... The museum is always fun and with more adults it's even better! Natalie and I were able to take the babies to the baby section while the grandparents played with the big kids. Here are a few pictures:

Being artists:

The rock wall:

Ian checking out the baby chicks with Papa:

The three monkeys:

Our time with Papa and Grandma Smith flew by too quickly. We had so much fun with them! We love when they have a chance to visit. And we love the memories that we make. Our children are so blessed to have grandparents in their lives.