We had the great opportunity to jump in the car and drive to Phoenix this weekend to celebrate Susie's brother, Bob's (so Danny's uncle), 80th birthday. We weren't about to miss such a momentous, not to mention fun occasion, for any reason!
Danny and I haven't taken the kids on too many road trips. Actually, as I am typing this right now, I feel lame for even calling the car ride from the Valley to Phoenix a "road trip." We realized through this little bit of traveling, that we have been totally lame about what our kids are capable of putting up with in the car. We've stuck to close destinations, San Diego and Julian are our favorites. But we haven't managed to venture out into other areas, which you have to do living where we live, since we are several hundred miles from a lot of really awesome places! We've always worried that the car ride will be too long, or boring, or they'll get sick...whatever. Simply put, we've been in "baby" mode too long. And we don't have babies anymore! And yes, I can just see the people who have babies and continue to travel rolling their eyes right now. I know, I know. But did you have four kids under 3 years old? You did? Ok, I'll be quiet now. ;)
I'll just get to the good part...the pictures!
We woke up bright and early on Saturday morning and went to a historical park which had some great picture-taking backgrounds. More importantly for the kids, the place was full of peacocks!
These types of cool old vehicles were everywhere, and the kids felt right at home! It reminded us of the Pioneer Museum in Imperial.
See the huge peacock on the far left? I had told the kids to act like a peacock. And this was their impression. Gigi's peacock must be tired of showing off.
Cubby in a tree. We have a shot like this from everywhere we go.
Love this one of our big eight year old and her dad. She's getting to be such a tall young girl. Time is flying!
The peacocks were incredibly patient with our very curious children. The best part was when they started making that loud mewing peacock sound. The girls practiced and were able to mimic them.
Then we drove over to downtown Glendale. The shops were just ok, but the antique car show was pretty cool! I just love how well the twins coordinated with this amazing car.
This is a shout out to Grandpa David. This has Bad To the Bone written all over it, right Dad? Looks awfully familiar to your SS!
Next we toured the Cabela's store. And when I say toured, I am not exaggerating, that store is gigantic! I couldn't stop thinking about what my brother-in-law, John would do in Cabela's! I also kept a keen eye out for any Duck Dynasty stars.
The shooting gallery may have been designed for kids, but Danny and I both enjoyed shooting a few rounds.
We saw wildlife everywhere!
This African exhibit took the kids by surprise. They couldn't wrap their heads around the fact that, yes, those animals had been alive, but they'd been stuffed. Emma was finally able to explain it to them by saying, "Do you see that stuffed lion? Ok. Imagine it walking around. Got it? Ok, it actually did that."
Now on to Bob's wonderful birthday party celebration. We enjoyed a fabulous dinner of delicious mexican food, which included Imperial Valley's finest carne asada, thanks to Susie!!
James made quick friends with little Wyatt...his second cousin? Not sure....
And here's Susie with her brother, Bob. Those sure are quite a pair! It was fun listening to them reminisce about the good old days.
Chris was put in charge of the carne. Well done bro-in-law, it was delicious!
Nothing like snuggle time with Grandma!
My big girls are looking forward to brunch at Michelle and Weston's house. The family seriously rolled out the red carpet for us! We felt so welcomed and honored!!
My girls couldn't get enough of baby Riley!
What a fabulous family, and what a fun weekend! Thank you to all who contributed to such a memorable weekend. The meals were incredible!! And special thanks to Bob for turning 80 so that we could hop in the car and drive over to celebrate with you!
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