Welcome Back Colorado Boys - Days 8 & 9

So, in theory the boys were originally supposed to leave in two days, but with the change, we are just gonna keep on rolling.  Grandpa lets me sleep in today and they are off to the coffee shop for breakfast.  I sure do love that man.



When they return, we make the choice to spend the rest of the morning downtown.  The Dallas Museum of Art is our destination and with minimal effort, we are soon there.

Even though the museum is free, we have a membership that entitles us to see the special exhibits and there are several there that we have not yet enjoyed.  One is "Visions of America" and is all about printmaking.  The boys behave super well and I notice how they are very interested in what is said about each piece.

One piece has Caleb specially smiling as the name on it is "Caleb."

Watching the different things that draw each one in is great entertainment for me as we move along.  Raef stands at this one for quite awhile.  I'm not sure if he is looking for inspiration or understanding.  His final comment is, "I think I could do that."

After the exhibit, we head to the Creative Corners area and let the kids go.  For me, this is almost the better part.  I love to see what they can do when left to their own devices.

Ryan has found some blocks with patterns on them and is searching for the right ones to make whatever his mind has planned while Raef has taken on the pegs and bands to create his own name..

Meanwhile, Caleb has found reading pleasure in a cute alcove.

We have a couple of successes!

At this point, it's time to move on so we take the older boys to an area where they can build something and I head to the younger child area with Caleb.  Divide and conquer is the plan.  Grandpa is in charge of the two older boys.  Let's hope he remembers to take a couple of pictures.

After Caleb and I finish up in his room, we go to see what the boys have made and done.  They have played in an old time phone booth (did I really just say "old time"?  Goodness.  I remember these.) and have moved onto another project.  I do locate their build and grab a photo of it.  Good job boys.

Now, they are sitting where they have to draw a picture of each other.  Giggles keep occurring.  I wonder why.

They do take it very seriously at times though and work diligently at it.

We find a table for Caleb and tell him to do a self-portrait.  He, too, takes it seriously and starts drawing.  Grandpa is enjoying this tremendously.

It is soon time to exchange pictures and see what the other has created.  I do so love the smiles that take place now.

Once those are posted for everyone to see, it's time to find some lunch.  I ask the boys to "STAY PUT" while I go and check out the cafe.  "Don't move," is the instruction.

Lunch in the cafe is quick and satisfying.  Now for a walk over to Klyde Warren Park where we discover that HIVE has a booth that looks just fun enough to stop.

Each one walked away with a pair of sunglasses and Grandpa had lots of new information.  Now, onto the playground.

When the heat finally gets to everyone, we head for the car and a stop at Half Price Books and treats for all.  (Grandpa has the bag with everyone else's books).  What grandparent will turn down a request for books?

With an evening movie of Pirates of the Caribbean #4, we are calling this day done.  See ya later.

It is the second of July.  Where did June go?  With Grandpa home for a three day weekend, we are off to the Children's Garden at the Dallas Arboretum today.  I'm already warm and we have just started.  Cross your fingers that we make it through the day.

Our first stop is the vegetable gardens where Raef discovers pineapples growing.  Pineapples.  How fun is this?

Grandpa tries to gather the boys for one photo together.  This is not an easy task by any measure.

Oh the maze.  As soon as they boys see it, they are off.  This is a much beloved area of the gardens.  Yep, we might as well go along.

I love how each time it is just a bit different.  They open or close unique gates each time and so you never quite memorize what you need to do to get out.  Yes, the dragons are quite interesting.

Moving on --- I am always fascinated when boys notice flowers.  I know, I know --- so sexist, but true.  Caleb spots a giant hibiscus and even checks for smell.

As we enter a different section, now the task is to find the animals hidden in the grasses.

Water time!

Caleb has asked to go to a couple of the other areas, so we are off.  The first one has sit down areas to play in.  Taking advantage of the chance to sit, I might as well play too.

A stop at the kaleidoscope is always required as is the cave and more water games just outside it.

Okay, okay.  I give.  I'm hot.  It's time to go.  Grandpa suggests the Dairyette for lunch and fresh, cold root beer.  Bring it on.

And that's it.  Let's go home to relax and play games.  Ta ta for now.