Memorial Day Memories 2012

We had an action-packed Memorial Day weekend that included swimming, a trip to an old-school amusement park, and a visit from old friends.

Max surveyed the scene on Saturday before taking his first dip ever in a swimming pool.  (Thanks to the Volneys for the last-minute invite to their pool when we got word that ours wasn't opening as planned.)

Despite lots of moral support from Big Sister, Max was not a fan of the cold water.  Maybe after the Texas sun has warmed it up a bit more he'll be ready to dive in.

Lounging poolside is more fun for now.

Scarlett watered the plants to help them grow (plants love chlorinated water, right?) ...

... and then watered Max for good measure.  Scarlett, have you not noticed that Brother doesn't need any help in the growing department?

On Sunday we headed to Sandy Lake Amusement Park just north of Dallas.  I should have worn blue eye shadow, my acid washed denim jacket, and scrunchy socks because we pretty much stepped back in time to 1985.  Sandy Lake is basically a small permanent carnival that includes a good selection of toddler-friendly rides, including boats, race cars, airplanes, a carousel, a train that circles the property, and live pony rides.  There's also an arcade and a pool that we didn't check out this time.

The boats were Scarlett's favorite (she rode them three times).  

 

Driving the hot pink car, complete with flames on the side. 

Train kisses from Daddy.

Trying to build up the courage to ride the ponies.  Maybe next time.

Max lounging at Sandy Lake. 

On Monday, one of my best friends from college -- Jennifer (aka Loberg), and her two girls, Makena and Reese -- came to visit for a few days of their week-long road trip from North Carolina.  The Kovacs joined us for a Memorial Day cookout and it was great fun to see all of our kids gathered together in one place.

From left to right:  Reese (5 1/2), Michael (5 1/2), Loberg, Makena (6, almost 7), Max (6 months, in my lap barely peeking out from behind Makena), me, Scarlett (2), Amy, Henry (3, almost 4), and Stella (22 months).

Chris and the kids playing with a giant bubble wand. 

Work it, Max.

And finally, a moment to remember what the holiday is all about.  Today -- June 6th -- is the 68th anniversary of the D-Day invasion of Normandy, France, a military operation of epic proportions.  A heartfelt thank you to all of the brave Americans who fought for us that day, as well as those who have protected our families, friends, and freedoms throughout history.