Whipsnade Zoo

I have a really great new friend here in England that was kind enough to share her 1/2 membership tickets with the kids and I for a day at Whipsnade Zoo. It's considered to be one of the best in England, and I can see why. There are amazing views as the zoo is at the top of a hill. There are huge grassy areas for the kids to run and play in. The animals are very accessible and there are quite a few new ones, for us, that were different from those in the Phoenix zoo. The kids had so much fun that they became tired and whiny towards the end, and that was our cue to wrap up the day. Both sets of kids fell asleep on the ride home. I hope you enjoy the pictures half as much as we enjoyed being there.

These brown bears were so funny. We decided they must be brother and sister as the sister kept taunting the brother, getting into his new space each time he would walk away.

Horrible view, huh?

You can kind of see that one of these otters is holding something. He never let it go and would twirl it around and around in his hands. We thought they must have been very hungry as every time they heard a vehicle go by they would run after it, and seemed to be begging us for food.

I think all kids love rolling down grassy hills, don't they?

Lemon Creme Sandwich Cookies

Just a quick post before bed.

My son is just the sweetest most generous person that I know.

Today while we were talking about what he chose for lunch (more on that later) we talked about the two lemon creme sandwich cookies that I put in his lunch the day before as a little surprise. That's when he told me that he gave his second cookie to his new friend Justin, because Justin's Mommy hadn't given him a dessert. I just love that he is so caring of others and his faith in fairness not only governs others, but himself.

I love this kid!

Keep Calm and Carry On

My good friend Cara has this saying on her blog.

I've always liked it, but would feel funny 'stealing' it for myself.

I recently happened upon the meaning and thought how appropriate it is for us all right now. We are all weathering this economic situation the best we can. We are all stressed out to the gills. We all have lots of reasons to not remain calm. So this is a wonderful reminder that even at our wit's end, we can still carry on.

Visitng with My Good Friend Jody

My very good friend, Jody, was in Arizona (from Wisconsin) for a visit over the holidays. I miss her so much. She's one of those great friends that you don't get to talk to very often, but when you do, it's like no time has gone by at all. She is such a great friend that I feel totally comfortable around her and can completely be myself. She is also a great mentor. When I am facing a difficult situation, either personal or parental, I often wonder what Jody would do.

While Jody was visiting she and her boys, Troy, Carter, Noah, and Hayden, met us at the zoo for some fun. For me it was a great experience to see what is to come from the older boys. and for the kids, it was good for them to be around kids they don't see everyday, and to see me with a close friend.

The animals, I'm afraid, were quite a side-note on our day at the zoo. We were too busy chatting and playing and having fun to really take special notice of them. Next time we'll pay them the attention that they deserve.

A few days later Jody and I were able to get together for dinner, just the two of us. We were able to talk about those things you can't when little ears are around. We closed down PF Changs and even stood outside a bit longer still wanting to chat. I miss my friend. But, somehow, just knowing she's there if I need her helps me to look forward to the next time we can get together.