It truly is MAGICAL!!!

During our trip, we spent two days at the Magic Kingdom...one with the 4 of us and one with Dad and Pat. We went on several rides (some even numerous times), took in two parades, watched a show in front of the castle, had storytime with Belle, and interacted with the princesses and characters. The days were definitely long, but well worth it. Here are a few highlights from both days!

Penquins, Dolphins and Whales...oh my!

Since our return from Disney, life has been a little hectic with the holidays, family visits, fighting a cold that lasted 3 weeks, painting Lauren's room, and trying to get the house back in order before sending Mark and Kate back to school this morning. Don't get me wrong, it's been a wonderful few weeks...it's just prevented me from blogging. So...I pick up where we left off, our fun-filled trip to Orlando.

During Rich and Carol's visit we spent a day at Sea World. It has changed considerably since my last trip in 1994. The shows are all based on a story and beautifully choreographed with elaborate costumes, trapeze work, and real birds flying through the audience! Mark and I even had the opportunity to ride Kraken, a rather large roller coaster with several loops and corkscrews. (Not quite the same feeling as when we were teenagers.)

Here are some highlights from our day exploring life under the sea.

Character Sitings

We returned last Thursday from an action-packed, fun-filled, and exciting week in Disney World! Mark and I had not been to Disney World since the 80s, so the "big" kids had just as much fun as the little ones. We were lucky to have two sets of grandparents join us for a couple of days to share in the "magic" of the adventures.

Kate loved getting signatures in her princess autograph book and taking pictures with the many characters throughout the parks. Lauren wasn't quite as receptive to the idea, but did her best nonetheless. Although she just had to have her own Tinkerbell autograph book. Here are just a few shots of the numerous characters we saw. (More pictures of our trip to come!)

Holiday Tea Party

Last week, the girls and I attended a holiday tea party at a friend's house. The girls dressed up in their holiday best and enjoyed the party's numerous activities. The activities included making an ornament, a gift exchange, a Christmas story, and of course, cookies and lemonade. The moms got to enjoy delicious treats and coffee while also having the opportunity to socialize (a nice treat). Kate and Lauren had a wonderful time!

Happy 2nd Birthday, Lauren!

Our youngest daughter turns 2 today!!! Happy Birthday, Lauren!

Thank you for two wonderful years. You are truly a blessing in all of our lives. Your smile lights up a room and your beautiful and caring personality brings joy to those around you. We wish you all the happiness in the world and look forward to watching you grow in the years to come.

Thanks for making our lives complete! Endless birthday wishes to one COOL kid!

We LOVE You!
Mom, Dad and Kate

Who Can Resist a Party?!

This past weekend, Kate attended a birthday party for one of her preschool friends at the Life and Science Museum. I sent Mark along since he had never been before. Kate (and Mark) had a blast! The party was complete with face painting, a Dora pinata and cake, and an afternoon filled with fun and excitement exploring the museum. After being gone for 5 1/2 hours, the duo returned home with numerous pictures and videos. Here are just a couple that highlight the event.

From Under the Sea to Never Never Land

The girls had a great time trick-or-treating this year and thoroughly enjoyed Halloween! Kate transformed herself into Ariel (her favorite princess), complete with her wand and tiara, while Lauren became Tinkerbell for a magical evening! (Thanks to our friends who loaned us the wings... Lauren lit up the sidewalks as she walked.) Although the girls enjoyed going door-to-door, Kate spent most of the night watching all of the kids come to our house, admiring the vast array of costumes. Lauren, on the other hand, had difficulty at first with others taking our candy. She started to cry, yelling "Nooooo! That's my candy!" We were able to distract her enough to empty the candy bowl and enjoy the evening. Fun was had by all.

(Kate has already informed me that next year she wants to be Belle!!)