Backyard of fun

Now that spring is here, we're getting our backyard ready for some good times. Last week we enjoyed singing "ring of fire" around our new fire ring.

Emma and Abbie also got their joint birthday present a week early: a trampoline!

So far they absolutely love it.

Poor Dallin is stuck inside. What's the deal?

Nap Time

I put Dallin down for a nap and checked up on him after 20 minutes. This is what he gets for preferring his belly to his back.

Springtime at the Zoo

In past years we've always baked ourselves going to the zoo in July or August, so this year we took advantage of a cool day in the 50's to go to Hogle Zoo.

Emma and Abbie seemed to really enjoy all the animals. However, on the ride home we asked them what their favorite part was and they said "Cotton Candy" in unison.

Notwithstanding Cotton Candy's allure, here's some evidence that Abbie really enjoys leopards, especially the kind that come up to the glass to look for tasty treats.

I've never seen the camels do anything in the past. This time however, being cooped up in the same pen together all winter long finally brought these two to a breaking point.

Emma does not measure up.

Unfortunately, I do.

Dallin enjoyed his time at the zoo too. He wasn't very impressed by the animals, but sure likes to get out with his "peeps".

Peace Out

Maiden Voyage

Emma can't be held back anymore! Not unless we are willing to run after her.

Now I'm looking forward to going on some family bike rides together.

April Fools'

The first surprise here: this is what we had for dinner. The second surprise: there's no sugar in these cupcakes and my kids loved them anyway.
Imagine the shock when I served cupcakes for dinner and it got even better when Ben put ketchup on his. I told Emma she could taste the frosting. She looked up at me and said - "hey, this tastes like food". APRIL FOOLS' - no cupcakes here - meatloaf and mashed potatoes, Mmmmmm.
It was a fun little surprise and incredibly easy.
We'll do this again on another silly day.
RECIPE:
Meat Loaf
1 pound lean ground beek
1 packed Lipton golden onion soup mix
1/2 cup seasoned bread crumbs
1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
3 T ketchup
1 T worcestershire sauce
1 egg
Potato Frosting
3 cups mashed potatoes (instant is easiest)
Food coloring

Heat the oven to 375. Line muffin tin with 12 foil bake cups.
In a large bowl, mix together all meatloaf ingredients until well combined. Divide the mixture evenly among the lined cups. Bake for 15-17 minutes or until cooked through.

Divide the mashed potatoes among three small bowls and stir a few drops of food coloring into each batch. Spread a generous dollop on each cupcake.
Round it out with some mixed vegetables and enjoy.