Jelly Belly

My friend Andra told me she was taking her daughter to Jelly Belly today so we met her over there after Abi's playgroup. Our friend Taylor met us as well.
They had the train leaving from the gift shop instead of the lobby which made it harder to keep the kids under control while we waited. Taylor put little Samantha in one of their new carts (at least I haven't see them before) but got in trouble for it. Apparently their carts are not for babies. Interesting.

I caught this action photo of Abi off the ground as she and Alisse hopped around on the Jelly belly guy.

On the train. We were the bad kids at the back of the bus today. Luckily there was quite a lot of train in between us and the next people because I don't think I heard a word of the tour today.

It was a lot of fun guys!

Shedd Aquarium Day

Today we went with some of our playgroup friends down into Chicago to Shedd Aquarium ( if a month has a fifth week they like to go do something instead of having play group at someones house)
This was the first time I have gone to a place like this without a stoller for Abi... she was so tired by the end of it but it was really nice.

Sara, Abi, and John excited to see the first fish...

the group

Unfortunately, the Oceanarium was closed so we didn't get to see my favorites- the dolphins- but we still had a great time checking out all of the amazing ocean life!

With that part being closed, the main cafeteria area where you can sit and eat overlooking the lake was also closed. I hadn't packed a lunch thinking we would get the little personal pan pizza hut pizzas that we have gotten on our trips here with my mom. We had to settle for overpriced lunchables but Abi still loved it and was quite proud of her 'cracker sandwich'.

Abi and the Iguana.

This girl had a Corn Snake out to show all the kids and talk about it with them. Abi is usually pretty shy with everyone so I was quite surprised when the lady asked what colors it had on it and Abi was the first one to say "Orange!" We ended up getting a little corn snake toy at the gift shop. I'm trying to nurture that interest in snakes since I like them so much!

They had this little camping area set up for the kids to play in. Abi and Sara kept fighting over the eggs. They don't usually fight over toys with each other so I was surprised.

another group shot... don't you love John's pose. He is such a cool kid. Abi was trying to get out of the picture to go hide.

Hmmm... who could be hiding behind this fish? Those boots kind of give it away.

Abi, Gabe, and Sara checking out an exhibit.

This picture was toward the end when all the kids seemed to be getting a little tired and ready to leave so I thought it was great when they all (except Garrett) jumped up here and just stared into this exhibit for a few minutes.

On the way to the gift shop Abi wanted to finish her chocolate milk from lunch. It was nice to just watch the big tank for a minute.

Getting to run!

We love Chicago!!