Summer Nights at the Zoo

So two weeks ago we went a little crazy and had a "Zoo Weekend." We have annual passes to the San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park and we go a LOT! We just love it there and the kids are always so well behaved and excited to go. Every time we go we get to see something new and different as we observe the animals.

Well, during the Summer the zoo is open until 9:00. Considering that our kids go to bed by 7:30, that is a late night for them. Well, we went a month ago and got in line to see the "Jewels of the Rainforest" acrobatic show, only to have it rained out . (yes, in San Diego in the Summer. It seems they can't handle a little drizzle.) Well, we ended up going on Friday afternoon, as Chris is usually home and done with work early, and Brianna has early dismissal every Friday. We went to the Wild Animal Park and didn't get home until like 10pm. The next day we didn't have any work to do, so we decided we might as well go again, but to the Zoo this time. We stayed for the late show--which was amazing--and got home late yet again (11pm?). The girls were just all oohs and aahs for the shows, which makes it all worth it. They all want to be gymnasts and acrobats now, not that Courtney needed any more ideas!

Beginning Soccer

I'm officially a soccer mom. I'm not so sure I like it. Our lives are centered around soccer on Tues/Thurs, with two practices in the evening right around dinner time on opposite ends of town--AND two games on Saturdays!

Brianna and McKayla had their first soccer game last Saturday. McKayla is by far the youngest and smallest on her team. She loves soccer, but she spends most of the game just observing the group and following everyone else around the field. The ball with go right by her and she'll just watch it. Her coaches are good about letting her do goal kicks and throw the ball in a lot. She loves it. The picture tells it all--notice the girl getting ready to catch the ball?

Brianna's team is actually quite good. I am amazed at what some of those girls can do. Brianna has so far been a bit reserved. We spent Saturday evening playing a good natured game in the backyard. McKayla and Mom against Brianna and Dad. It was so fun. We got those girls really playing aggressive and going for the ball.

I broke down and bought McKayla a pair of cleats yesterday. They are so TINY! She's on cloud nine and is convinced she can run faster and kick the ball farther now. So cute....

Overall, I'm amazed at what goes into these AYSO little kids leagues. We're talking fancy team banners, matching hair ribbons, sponsers, pictures, fund raisers, decals for the car, etc. Wow!

A Reunion

While we were in Oregon I got to visit with two of my best friends from high school. We've hardly kept in touch and it was SO great to see them. I hope that we can keep in touch via e-mail, now that we have each others addresses. (That is, if they forgive me for puting their picture on my blog!)