Spring Break

Austin's spring break was the week of Easter. We decided to take the kids to California this year for spring break. We also decided to leave on Easter. Our flight was at 4pm so we knew we would be able to do all the fun Easter activities in the morning. Then get ready for the airport. However our flight was delayed 3 hours. Luckily we were not at the airport. So we hung out at home and played. We went to the park. We played outside. It was a beautiful day.

The kids were a little whinny this morning. They didn't get much sleep because of excitement of Easter. Austin and Sydney sometimes have a hard time entertaining themselves. Brian and I were busy getting ready to leave so we could not play with them. It made it stressful on everyone. After a few time outs, everyone got it together and we had a fun day.

Because we are doing Legoland and Disneyland we had to bring our stroller. I realized it is nice traveling with it because we can put the bags in the stroller. We also brought booster seat for the first time for Sydney. She is finally 40 pounds. For the past year, every time we traveled and Austin got a booster seat and she couldn't she would cry. She is very happy about this. We have a lot of stuff with us.

This is going to be their longest flight so far. Also their biggest time change. Prior to this the longest flight has been Dallas. And biggest time change an hour. I am interested to see how it goes. The three hour time difference may be interesting.

Our flight took off 3 hours after original scheduled. It was not too bad since we were able just to stay at home. The kids were fine on the plane. There was a little fighting on who got the window seat but other than that all was well. Sydney fell asleep 2 hours into the flight. Austin slept the last hour. Austin enjoyed working on his emjoi book. I had fun helping him.

Once we arrived to LA, we got our luggage which was much faster the DFW. Then we went to the rental car place. That was very uneventful other than the car had left over trash in it. Austin was terrified and thought there was some trash monster. Brian complained about it. However the car seats were already installed so we did not switch cars again.

We drove an hour and half to our hotel. It was 12:30am Pacific time before we arrived at our hotel. We were exhausted. However that night I had severe ear pain. My ear felt like it had to pop. In the middle of the night, the pain woke me up. I have never had such severe ear pain. It was bad.

Austin got up at 6am PST. We were happy with that however we were still tired. They watched their Kindles for a bit. Then we went to breakfast and off to Legoland. We arrived before it opened however a few attractions were open. The kids got a picture with Kai and they played with Legos. Once the park opened, we went on the two big roller coasters. We rode some more rides. Austin really enjoyed the ball area where he could shoot balls up. He actually played there twice. We walked around mini lego city. That is really cool so see the the creations. Austin and Sydney also enjoyed creating a boat and sending it down the river.

Then we allowed them to play in the waterpark. It was only 68 degrees but they really wanted too. So we did, well Austin and Sydney did. Brian got his feet wet however I did not. It was too cold for me. Plus I still wasn't feeling that well from my ear pain. They also enjoyed playing in the area where the boat ride made a big splash. They had a lot of fun in the waterpark!

After the waterpark, we rode a boat through Story book land. They saw nursery rhyme characters made out of Legos. Again very cool. Then we went to the Ninja ride. Sydney wasn't too sure about it but she did it and like it. In fact she actually won at it! It was a interactive game that you play while riding with 3D glasses. We had a great day at the park.

The Cavs were playing so we ordered a pizza and picked it up and ate dinner at our hotel. We watched the game and luckily they won. We were going out for ice cream but the kids did not behave so we stayed in and and went to bed.

On Tuesday, again everyone got up a little after 6am. We went to breakfast and got ready for Legoland. We arrived a few minutes early and once we could go onto rides we went on the Dino roller coaster. The kids liked it. Then we went to the cars race track. Because the cars are based on ages, Austin and Sydney have to ride in different tracks. That made Sydney very sad. In fact she refused to do her track because of that. She cried while Austin raced his car.

After the race track, we rode the helicopters, lego boats, and pirate ship. Then we explored Star Wars mini legoland. Austin enjoyed that. We took them to the big play area for a bit. They played and were tired after we were done. They also rode horse ride. We did the Dragon roller coaster. The ended our time at Legoland at the big slide ride. We left Legoland early so we could do the beach.

We ate lunch at Sonic. Austin and Sydney thought it was cool to eat lunch in our car. They even got a slushie. They were very happy. After lunch, we stopped at Walmart for snacks and sand toys. We went back to the hotel to change and then went to the beach. The water was freezing however Austin and Sydney still played in it! They played in water and in the sand for about 2 hours. They love the beach! It became cloudly and we were all cold so we left. We went back to the hotel to clean up.

The plan was to get ice cream. However Austin said he wanted dinner so we got some food at Seven Eleven. It was pricey so we just had ice cream at Seven Eleven. I was disappointed however Austin and Sydney were happy.

On Wednesday it was our last day at Legoland. After breakfast we got to the track and went first to Lego cars roller coaster. It was the kids favorite ride. After that we rode the water spray ride. We only got a little wet. Austin and Sydney loved it. We did the Lego climb ride where we had to pull ourselves up to the top. I went with Sydney and Brian went with Austin. The kids love to ride rides with their Daddy. They fight on who gets to ride with him. We watched the Lego 3D movie.

Then we checked out the Aquarium. It was cool and would recommend it. It only takes about an hour to go though. The got a paper they had to stamp at each station. Austin and Sydney had to fight on who stamped first. They were both tired and whiny and it was a bit of a disaster. They did enjoy touching sea creatures though and getting their stamps. Afterwards they got a little prize.

After the Aquarium, we had a snack we packed then went to the waterpark. Again it was cool outside however Austin and Sydney love water so we went. They played in the water area and then convinced Brian to ride the log ride with them. They got wet but loved it. Then Sydney wanted to go in the lazy river. I took her. It wasn't too cold. It was neat to be able to play with legos on the raft. We enjoyed it.

Then we changed and Austin and Brian went on some upside down ride. Austin again loved it. He loves crazy rides and nothing scares him. He is braver than I am for rides. We rode the cruise around the park and saw difference cities of the world made out of Legos. Sydney enjoyed seeing Sydney harbour. We ended at the gift shop and Sydney got a princess crown. Austin decided to save his money for Disney.

We drove towards Disneyland. We were all starving so we stopped at a Denny's for dinner. Austin knows about Denny's from Cavs game however we have never ate their before. We all enjoyed our meal and even had ice cream for dessert. Then we drove to our hotel near Disneyland which was about an hour away. We checked into our hotel and went to bed. We were all exhausted from our day.

We got up at 6am and got ready. We stopped at Mcdonald's for breakfast. Our hotel didn't offer free breakfast. Kids got pancakes which they love and we got Mcgriddles. We took it to go and walked to Disney.

I decided we were going to California Adventure first. I went to ensure we got on the Cars ride. I had done a lot of research however didn't have an exact plan in place. While waiting in line to get in, I decided to get a fast pass for Cars then go to Pier and ride rides there. It was a good plan. I easily got a fast pass. Then we rode Goofy's Sky School roller coaster (one of their favorite rides). Because there was no one in line we were able to ride it twice. That made them very happy. Then we rode the jumping jelly fish. We went high but it did not drop us fast. Next up were the swings. Sydney was happy she was able to ride it. We learned that 42 inches is an important height to be able to ride most bigger rides (some are more but she got to ride a lot since she was just above 42 inches).

Next we rode the Ferris Wheel. It is enclosed so I thought it would not be bad. We decided on the swinging one and it was a bit scary. Sydney did not like it at all. I was right there with her with not like it. Next time, I would prefer the not swinging on. We rode the Toy Story ride before heading over to Carsland.

We got on the Cars ride with our fast pass. That ride is very cool. I have to say probably my favorite. It is very well done and fun but not too scary. We all loved it. Then I got a fast pass for Soarin. We rode a two Mater ride in Carsland then it was time for our fast passes for Soarin. I also enjoy that since it takes you around the world. The kids like it but don't love it. Before leaving California Adventure I got another fast pass for Cars.

We headed into Disneyland. We went to Tomorrowland first. I tried to get a fast pass for Space Mountain however it now does not allow you do get fast passes for the two parks. So we just waited in line. All of us were going to to go but Sydney freaked out and decided she did not want to go. So her and I leave before getting on the ride. They gave us a fast pass for it when we left. Therefore Austin and Brian got to ride it again.

While waiting for the boys, Sydney decided she wanted to see Tinkerbell. The line about about 30 minutes but we figured we needed to let her do something she wanted to do. We waited in line and Tinker Bell was great. Sydney made a good choice.

We went to Mickeytoon Town. It was getting busy and hot. They played in the play areas and got a picture with Goofy. Then we went back to our hotel. On the way back to the hotel we stopped at McDonalds for some cheese burgers for lunch. Brian and Austin went to Walmart near by and got some cereal, lunches stuff, and snacks for the rest of the week. Sydney and I tried to rest but Sydney completely refused.

Our hotel had a small waterpark area. We took the kids there for a bit before going back to the parks. The waterpark, had waterslides and big bucket. The loved it. They played there for about an hour.

We went back to California Adventure to use our fast pass to Cars again. I was impressed on Day 1 we were able to ride that ride twice. Again it was very cool. Then we headed back to Disneyland for the evening.

Sydney saw 3 princesses (Ariel, Snow White, and Milan). She was very happy. While she was seeing princesses, Austin and rode Thunder Mountain Railroad. That is also a very good ride.

On Friday morning we got there early so that we could sign the kids up for Jedi Training.  We were the first ones there.  Then we rode the submarine ride.  That was cool since it was different and not at Disney World.  Kids were impressed that Daddy got to ride on real submarine many years ago.  

The Jedi training was cool.  It was hot though.  Then we also show Mickey Mouse.  We spent some time at our hotel too.  We came back at night to watch the light show which was very cool!  

On our last day at Disney we had extra magic hours. We arrived at gate at 7am and took at family picture at the castle. Then we went into Fantsyland to ride rides. I was annoyed because I was hoping to ride Peter Pan. However the wait was already crazy so we went to Mr. Toad's ride. We were all a little stressed, tired, and cranky. Somehow a person knew we wanted to ride Peter Pan and they let us in to ride it. It was magical. That changed the mood completely. Then we rode Alice in Wonderland and Brian took the kids on the Tea cups. I really don't like the tea cups. He enjoys getting pictures anyways. Then we rode It's a Small world. It is cool because in Disneyland part of it is outside. After that ride, I went and got a fast pass for Indiana Jones ride. Sydney wasn't talk enough but I wanted to get 4 so Brian and I could both ride it. We rode the rest of the rides in Fantsyland including storybook cruise, carousel, and Pinacco.

Brian and Austin went first for Indiana Jones. Sydney and I had a snack while we waited. Then I went with Austin. Sydney and Brian rode Jungle Cruise. Afterwards we all went to ride Thunder Mountain Railroad roller coaster. Sydney was a little scared but did like it. We ended in Adventureland with Tarzan's tree house.

We walked back to Tomorrowland to visit Launch Bay. Sydney was scared of some bad character. In fact she was actually hiding behind Brian she was so scared. They played a few games there and then we saw Chawbungwa. He was nice and sweet. Sydney even gave him a hug.

While we were there I checked in for our flight on my phone. It was really annoying because Austin and Brian were sitting together but Sydney and I were in totally different part of the plane away from each other and them. I understand the rules if I don't pay to select my seat however I do expect our kids to be seated with at least one of us. They are 4 and 6 years old. The airlines have the kids birth dates so I don't understand why they would do that. I called which was a disaster too. I realized next time just wait until we get to the airport. They will make it better there.

Austin wanted to ride the monorail so we rode that to downtown Disney. We took the stroller which was a mess because it was not a big doorway or seating area. It's not like Disney World's monorail. Nevertheless Austin enjoyed it. We walked though downtown Disney back to our hotel.

We had lunch in our room and then Sydney and I took a nap. Austin watched his Kindle (he claims he can't take naps anymore) and Brian worked. Then we went to the pool and then the waterpark. Brian ran to Walmart to get some more snacks and milk.

For dinner we stopped at McDonalds. We even allowed the kids to get a happy meal. That is a special treat for them. Then we went to California Adventure to play in the wilderness play area. Austin and Sydney did the rope course, rock climbing, and zip lining. They had fun. Afterwards Austin wanted to ride the water rafting ride but we said no since we could get soaked. He decided he wanted to ride the big roller coaster. Brian took him over. Austin is just about 48 inches. They allowed him up on it at the entrance of the ride. Then at loading time they said no.  

We had a great time at Legoland and Disneyland.  It was a great spring break!  

Easter

One of our favorite Easter's activities is Breakfast with Easter Bunny at the Akron zoo.  They do a very good job with it.  Unfortunately the day I selected a while back the weather wasn't the best. It was cool and party raining.  It kind of reminded me of Zoo lights but as my motto is "it is what it is" so we dealt with it.  

The Easter Bunny was very entertaining.  When we first arrived the kids got their picture with him.  Then we walked over to the breakfast area.  We  got our breakfast.  Sydney was being difficult about something.  When she doesn't get her way, she is a disaster.  It's very annoying.  She cried for a bit during breakfast but finally moved on.  The kids did a few crafts and then we got pictures with the Easter Bunny.  

Then it was time for the egg hunt.  Sydney was supposed to be with the younger kids however we did not want to separate so she came with the older kids.  It actually worked out great.  It was not that crowded because of the weather.  And it seems that there were more younger kids too.  A very cool thing was there was a bear interested in the Easter eggs.  He was right by the window looking at the egg.  Austin even found the golden egg.  He was so excited.  He got an extra prize.  

It was cold but the kids had fun getting the eggs.  Many people left once they filled a bucket but Austin and Sydney were the last kids there. They helped clean up.  We had a great time!

We also went to our rec center's water Easter egg hunt.  There was a bit of a disaster because when we got there we found out Austin's swim shorts did not fit him. I didn't understand how we did not know before we left the house. Brian was made because I didn't have safety pins in my purse.  He ran home to get something but I made do with a hair tie so he could do the egg hunt.  It wasn't as much fun as usual.  Plus Austin had soccer he wanted to go to so we were rushed to leave.  

Austin had a few Easter eggs hunts at school that he enjoyed.  Not sure they did any at Sydney's school.  Our friends had their egg hunt at their house again this year.  The weather was perfect for it.  We had a great time!  

Austin even made his own egg hunt at our house for when their friend came over.  He is really into egg hunts this year.  Austin also decided to make Brian and I an Easter basket this year and hide it.  He was so excited about that.  He was more excited about that than his own basket.  

We celebrated Easter at my parents on Saturday at lunchtime.  It was supposed to be later however the Cavs played at 3pm.  So we decided to do lunch with them instead.   Austin and Sydney were very excited about it.  My mom always does a nice job with it.  They got a ridiculous amount of stuff in their baskets.  They were so happy!  The even found some eggs outside.  It was super fun for them.  We had a nice Easter lunch and then headed to the Cavs game.  

Before my parent's house though, we signed the contract to build an addition onto our house.  We have looked at houses for a while.  And nothing has been completely perfect.  Brian had his reasons for not wanting to move.  I understand that and am fine staying at our house.  Brian has worked hard to create plans for our addition.  We believe it is going to be everything we need and more.  I am very excited about it.  However I am not looking forward to the mess!  Hopefully they will be able to build it quickly!

This was the first Cavs playoff game this year.  The playoffs are always more exciting than regular season.  It helps the weather is nicer.  The Cavs have fan fest and watch parties.  It is a lot of fun!  Luckily the Cavs won which made it even better!  

After the game, we walked through Public Square and the splash pad was open.  We told the kids they could get their feet wet.  Well they got soaked.  I couldn't believe we were letting them play there in April. It was 80 degrees but still.  I went and got the car and Brian carried them to it.  They had a lot of fun!  

Easter morning Austin woke up early.  Luckily he watched his Kindle for a bit.  Sydney got up a little later.  She watched her Kindle for a bit too however she was so excited to go find Easter stuff.  By 8am, they woke up Brian.  Austin made us breakfast in bed.  He knows how to work the microwave himself.  I was up with them at first and then he told me to go back to bed while he made breakfast. It was sweet.  

Then we went outside.  Austin had us find out baskets first.  Once we got them down, the kids found their baskets in their toy Jeeps.  Their baskets were a little small this year. However they were flying to California today too.  After they went through their baskets, they went and found eggs.  Another fun adventure.   

Overall we had a great Easter!  

Hello Spring and Track

Brian took Sydney to a Kent State women’s basketball game.  The other month Sydney told Brian that she couldn’t play basketball because she was a girl.  She could only be a cheerleader.  Brian wanted to show her women play basketball too.  However while she was there all she cared about were the cheerleaders.  They had fun together though. 

Brian traveled to Portland for a week in March for an awards ceremony for work.  I had the opportunity to go too but it didn’t work out so I stayed home with the kids.  While Brian is gone, we went to dinner at Panera.  We like eating there so we usually go there while he is gone.  I also let the kids sleep in our bed while he is gone too.  They always go back to their beds once Brian comes back home. 

One of our favorite activities in the winter is our annual trip to Great Wolf Lodge.  This year our friends were not able to join us so it was just us.  Austin didn’t have school on St. Patrick’s Day so we went then.  We got there around 3pm.  We went swimming.  We had some dinner.  Then we let Austin and Sydney get one wand to share.   Austin was so excited about that.  We also ran into one of Austin’s friends from school there.  We hung out for a bit. 

On Saturday morning, Sydney really slept in.  Austin and I ran to McDonald’s and brought it back to the room for us to eat.  Then we went swimming.  We checked out.  We played with the wands then drove home.  Austin had indoor soccer in the afternoon.  He really enjoys soccer.  He is good at it too. 

Sydney has ended with gymnastics.  She loves gymnastics.  She has also gotten really good at it.  She would like to try dance.  We will look at that in the fall. 

Our days are busy these days.  Austin gets up around 6:30am to 7am.  Sydney is usually around 7am.  We get Austin off to school.  There is limited (if any Kindle time in the mornings).  They have to be completely ready to go to be able to watch it.  After school, we like to play at the playground if I pick Austin up.  The weather has been amazing this year for winter.  If I work, I pick up Austin first.  Then Sydney.  There is usually a lot of fighting after school on these days.  They both need attention.  We eat dinner and Brian gets home for about half the dinners a week.  With track starting, Austin needs to eat earlier so Brian usually misses it. 

Austin has started reading.  He has to read a book a week for school.  It has 8 pages and they are simple words that he can sound out.  He is doing well with it.  We read before bed every night.  They usually go to bed around 8pm. 

We are all very excited for spring.  Everyone is happier when we can be outside.  However it’s been really raining and everything is a mud mess. Austin even called this season, mud mess season!  Hopefully it will dry out soon.