Crashing Jen's Spring Break

During Jen's Spring Break, we tried to keep the kids occupied with a variety of the normal things, but also indulged in our local aquatic center, the beach, a zoo, and a farm.  From the word go, the kids were super excited about each of our little trips and so was I.  Not because I don't get to do cool things with the kids on any given day, but I they got to share these new experiences with Tyler, who is Jen and Jason's son.

Another small wonder that helped these outings was Ashton's changed temperament.  Over the last couple of weeks, I've observed Ashton mellow out.  We've had our share of tantrums and differences of opinions, but overall Ashton seems to be ever-so-slowly growing out of his embarrassing aggressive stage.  Thank God for that.  We've had such a good month that I even talked to Jimmy about having another child, which he still insists I want, but I quickly changed my tune!  Something about having three kids all under 2 1/2 made me want to pull my hair out...  I can't quite figure out why... Oh wait.  I remember.  The never ending diaper changes, juice refills, and expertly timed fights were enough to make anyone celibate.

Side bar:  My mom is going to ring my neck after allowing two of her absolute no-nos.  The third of which is tattoos, and unfortunately with our packed schedule, we just couldn't squeeze in an ink session.  

Swim suits? Check.  Honey Smacks? Check.  Sibling fun? Check, check!
Having a little snack on our back stairs to pass the time until Tar-Tar arrived for our trip to the pool.  

Reagan's new swimsuit that I totally didn't need to by, but couldn't resist.
Who can say no to a tutu?  

Jen double fists Reagan and Tyler as we load up for the pool.

Car seat extravaganza!  Looks awesome, but their close proximity was a cause of many fights at the start of Spring Break.  Mine!  NO MINE!

In short, Ashton's holding one of Jen's new silkie chickens on the way home from the farm.  He seriously held that thing for the 15 minute car ride home.  Not once did the chicken escape or die from over-squeezing.  I was SHOCKED.  Plus, who knew a chicken could be so cuddly and cool?

I cannot describe how enthusiastic and awesome Ashton was with the chickens.  He was a total natural and really surprised us with his mature handling and continued interest in the chickens. 

   

All of three of the kids were all-stars at the zoo.  We didn't have one tantrum or fight!  

Ashton feeding a goat. 

Ashton's outgoing personality is hilarious (... well, to me.  If you can't relate, you might find him annoying).  He jumped right into this class' field trip, talking with each kid like he'd met them before.  

The kids and I watching the black bear.  Speaking of which, they should reconsider how they barricade the exhibits; I swore one of them was going to jump into the cage and be mauled.

(Mom, don't kill me...)  Aunt Jen and Uncle Blue's house is like a free Disney World.  Above, the kids are in the buff because the trampoline was wet and they insisted on jumping anyway.  Meh, they're kids and I think this is what life's all about.

Sweet Baby Rea enjoying the swing after some naked trampoline fun.  

My mom and sister are sure to kill me over this picture, but here goes...
Uncle Blue takes the boys for a spin around the house.