Road Trip, Mimi and Birthdays

Last weekend we went to Mary Ellen's, and I'm pretty sure Hardin wouldn't have enjoyed Disney more.  They have just about everything you could imagine for a kid to play on.  He and Liddie played and played and played and played some more.  He stayed up later than he ever has, 10pm, and had the time of his life.  His favorite was the gator.  Pretty lady, cool ride, the kid was over the moon.  I had just as much fun soaking in time with one of my favorite people in the world. 

Wednesday Mimi arrived, with a BEAUTIFUL chest that belonged to her mother.  Pictures to come once one of Jason's friends can come help him get it inside and put the mirror on.  The plan was to use it in Hardin's big boy room, but after one look we all agreed it has survived over 100 years in this family, no need to destroy it in a two year olds room.  We are going to use it in our guest room until the play room can be a piano room.  My family doesn't have anything like this precious chest, so I am very thankful to have something so special for our house.

Thursday I took a half day and kept Hardin out of school to hang out with Mimi.  Friday night we had dinner out at Double Zero with Mimi, Cat, Justin, Roddy and Sharron to celebrate Mimi's birthday.  Roddy's brave baby sitter took on all 5 cousins, but she had two awesome helpers in Stella and Olivia.  When I told Hardin it was time to go home, he didn't hesitate to say you go home, I need to stay here.  Those kids know how to have a great time. 

Saturday was Cawley's FIFTH birthday party at Leaping Lizards.  After a second day with the girls, Cathy and I were ready to split up Olivia and Stella and take one home each.  They were SUCH a great help with the little kids.  They showed them all around the jumpy houses, climbed the slides, helped them up and down, they were great.  I know it sounds a little crazy, but sometimes I get sad that my brother and I will never have kids the same age.  Seeing how much fun and how close they can be, even with 9 years in age difference, makes me happy at the thought of a different relationship. 

After all of that we slept.  4 hour naps yesterday and 3 hour naps today.  We worked in a little grocery shopping, a new tennis racket for daddy, and a park play date as well.  I've taken a page from Hardin's book lately, running full speed or asleep.  It's been nice.