Our Dates with Cassie

Every summer we are so anxious to get out and explore this wonderful place that we live.  More importantly, we are excited to get together with people we don't get to see much of during the hibernation.  We get to see Cassie quite a bit during the school year at family dinners, birthdays, holidays, etc...But, it is even more special during the summer because it is for no good reason! 

We were able to block off and plan several play dates with Cassie for this summer, which was extra special.  Most recently, we went to the Children's Museum.  I splurged and bought a pass for the year.  I have been doing a lot of tutoring this summer and feel like this was an appropriate way of saying "thank you" to my kids for being so understanding.  Although, when I think about it, they don't need to be too understanding.  They usually get to spend my tutoring days with Grandma Johnson and what could be better than that?

We went to the MN Zoo. My aunt and uncle have gotten us a pass for the last couple of years to the zoo.  It is the best gift.  We use year round whether it is rain or shine.  It is really nice because we can go for a couple of hours and not worry about spending a lot of money or not getting naps.
 My mom and Cassie came with and the boys loved it!

In May we went to the Milwaukee Zoo and asked Alex if he wanted to go on the camel rides.  There was no way he was having it.  But, with Cassie?  Sure! No problem.  He loved his ride and I am pretty sure Cassie did too.

Aiden enjoyed petting the camel for a bit.  But, it got a little too close and he was done.

Aiden loved feeding the goats.  Alex not so much.  Last year he went into the goats exhibit and they were all jumping on him for food.  Ever since he has been scared to death.  He warmed up towards the end of our visit with the goats though.

My little man loves him some tractors.  He would sit on the tractor all day if we let him.  This year's birthday theme? John Deere...definitely.

Our annual Zoo picture.  Thanks Cassie and Mom for going to the Zoo with us today!

We went to the Splash Pad in Apple Valley off of Galaxy.  We had a delicious picnic and then headed over to the park.  Usually, the kids would love it, but today Alex was starting to feel sick and they were both tired from getting back from the Dells.  We went over there, but Alex was complaining of a blister and some little girl knocked Aiden right over, so he was done.  Another time.

Uncle Pete was home for a visit and we all packed up and road tripped it to River Falls for a lunch date and Cassie's home.  She made delicious tacos and margarita Crystal Light.  She spoiled the boys with kiddie cocktails and never ending cherries.  For dessert there was a chocolate cake.  Well worth the drive.

Summer is winding down and get togethers are ending for us for a while.  We very much look forward to next years play dates with Cassie.