This past Friday we took an over night trip in Oklahoma. Tony had a couple days off so we knew we needed to go to the temple. We try to make one vacation trip out of going each year and this was the perfect time.
Friday morning we woke the boys up a little early and drove to the Tulsa zoo. We got there right right after it opened. Unfortunately getting there early meant getting there when not all the animals were out. That's all right, the boys needed to stretch their legs and it was fun to wander around without crowds.
watching the sea lions
We left the stroller in the car. This is a big deal! Our first family trip where we all walked & no one was pushed in a stroller. It was a little weird and awesome all at the same time. Unfortunately that meant I forgot to bring in the sun screen and we all got sunburned. Oops.
pure joy in the petting area
We watched the sea lion show, rode the train & carousel and pet the
animals in the petting zoo. Charlie loved the sea lions and
giraffes--"Jeffrey's family!" (Charlie sleeps with a stuffed giraffe
named Jeffrey) Joey liked the flamingos and loved petting the goats.
brushing the goats
trying to feed the goat rocks
riding the carousel
We had a picnic lunch on the way out. It was such a beautiful day! It was in the 80's by the time we left. I'm glad we got there early because the crowds were arriving as we left. We missed the crowds and were able to drive to our hotel, in Oklahoma City, during nap time.
We unpacked, changed into our swimsuits and headed for the pool right when we arrived. The boys loved the pool! Joey splashed to his heart's content and Charlie pretended to be a sea lion.
We headed back up to our room and took baths while we waited for pizza to be delivered. We watched The Incredibles while eating pizza and juice boxes on towels. The boys had so much fun! Joey devoured two big slices of pizza. He really loves pizza.
sunburned faces
After dinner it was a crazy free for all while we finished the movie and wrestled the boys in bed. Charlie made a "fort" out of the extra blankets and Joey mostly rolled around screaming with joy.
We brought a pack n' play for Joey and made a bed for Charlie on the ground. Is it horrible we didn't let them sleep in the king sized bed? Sorry boys! Your feet are cute, but not cute enough I want them kicking me in the face. xoxo
traditional temple family photo--with the sun in our eyes this time, sorry Charlie!
I have loved having our temple far away. Here's the reason: for at least two weeks out we have our trip planned. So for weeks I'm thinking about going, praying for a good experience, etc. Going to the temple has become a huge source of spiritual strength and peace for me. There's nothing quite like it.
During Tony's session we had a picnic on the lawn. It was really neat because I was able to talk to Charlie about why we go to the temple and why it is important. It was short and sweet and ended when Joey started smashing and throwing grapes. We played on the grounds and then killed some time at the chickfila play place. Joey was having a rough afternoon! After a royal tantrum, by Joey and almost myself, we headed back to the temple. I guess he got it out of his system because he was much better after that.
The boys walked along the gate and chased each other all over the place. We had to have walked at least 50 laps around the temple!
After daddy was done we drove to Tulsa and the boys napped. We stopped at chickfila (I guess we really like this place?) for dinner and a chance to let the boys play. Tony turned Joey's carseat around before we left and Joey was the most excited I have ever seen him! I put him in his seat and he sat confused for a minute until he started hysterically screaming and clapping with excitement. I don't know if I've ever laughed so hard! The boys watched a movie and were perfectly content the rest of the way home.
so excited to be front facing
This was our little spring break getaway! Just what we needed.
