Animal Fun!

Last weekend we went to the Austin Rodeo with Aspen. This was not only her first visit, but also my first trip to a rodeo. We had such a great time and we will definitely go back next year. Who knew all the fun I was missing out on?!?

We went to the petting zoo first. Jason and I both knew that Aspen was going to love it considering her fondness for Bella and the chickens. I was really impressed with all the animals in the petting zoo.

Listening to her Dad about how to be gentle with the animals.

After the petting zoo we walked over to the pony rides. At first I didn't think she was old enough to go on them, but we saw a few people with kids her age--so when at the rodeo, ride a pony! This were looking really grim when Jason first put her on the pony. I honestly thought she was going to start screaming and we were going to have to exit early.

But as soon as the ponies started moving she was fine and loved it. I could hear her yelling out "Choo-choo!". She pretty much says "choo-choo" for any type of ride we go on. I'm so glad she stayed on and enjoyed her first pony ride.

Then we headed over to the pig race tent. This was hilarious and so much fun and Aspen just loved watching the little piggies run around the track. She just kept saying "more,more" after the races were over.

Excited for the races to start!

We grabbed some lunch and after that walked through the main fairground area with all the animals. It was cool to see the different "Grand Champions". They were still having competitions while we were there that you could watch. Aspen really enjoyed watching the horse and carriages in the warm-up circle. I think she was pretty exhausted by this point and was just enjoying watching them go around and around.

We had a great time and can't wait til next year!

St.Patick's Day Dinner

Saturday night we went over to my dad's house to have our traditional corned beef dinner. It was delicious! I know it's not for everyone, but it's one of my favorite holiday meals.

Aspen was pretty excited about the dinner. She loved the meat, parsnips, and even enjoyed a couple of turnips. I can't get this girl to eat a potato for the life of me! I also made Irish Soda Bread again this year. It came out great; I just wish I had made two loaves. 

It's always hard to get group shots, but I used my dad's tripod that my brother and I got him for Christmas and we got a pretty good shot :)

Of course we couldn't end the evening without Poppy and Aspen doing a little interpretive dance. I have a feeling a lot of this goes on when Aspen goes to Poppy's for an overnight.

Another wonderful St.Patrick"s Day to add to the memory books!

Say Cheese!

Lately every time I pull my camera out Aspen gets really excited and wants to hold it instead of having her picture taken. So the last couple of times I show her "how it works" and then ask her if she wants me to take her picture. Which is followed a "yes" and when I tell her to "Say Cheese" this is her face...

So of course I had to take advantage of this adorable face that was willing to stand still and let me take some pictures!

We had a picnic tonight for dinner at the park up the street from our house. The weather was gorgeous and Aspen got to play on the playground after she ate--perfect Friday evening!

Erin Go Bragh!

Toast to St. Patrick

Saint Patrick was a gentleman
Who through strategy and stealth

 

Drove all the snakes from Ireland
Here's a toasting to his health.

But not too many toastings
Lest you lose yourself and then

 

 
Forget the good Saint Patrick
And see all those snakes again.

Beannachtam na Feile Padraig. (Happy St. Patrick's Day.)