More Pics..

Somehow I completely forgot to add these pictures to our zoo pictures. Enjoy!!

Our Mini-Vacation

Josh had a four day weekend over Easter and we decided to do a mini-vacation. Instead of traveling long distances (which to us is 10 - 15 hour drives to see family) we went to a new place only 3 1/2 hours away - Omaha, Nebraska. Why Omaha you ask? To go to the Henry Doorly Zoo and stay at a hotel with a pool. It was Josh's first visit to Nebraska so I had to take a picture of him at the state line. Emma got out of the van to pose by the sign too.

Eric was very dismayed that he didn't get a chance to get out of the van for a picture.

Part of the fun of going out of town is staying at a hotel with a pool. A great time was had by all.

The Zoo

Josh and Eric at the touch pool.

We weren't there long.

Emma and Erin enjoyed the children's park where climbing was encouraged.

Our one and only family shot.

There was a neat covered bridge where you could feed the Coy Fish. The fish were going crazy for the food, so much that we actually heard sucking sounds as they tried to get the pellets (and the cereal a family was tossing in).

Having Fun!

Josh relaxing in our room afterwards.

We took the family on a Horse and Carriage Ride....just like princesses. Eric cried for the first 5 minutes and Erin was terrified until Josh put her on his lap - which was right after he took the picture. Emma was JUST BEAMING the entire ride. It was so worth it!!!

Emma's First Dance Recital

Emma has been taking a beginner's dance class through the Parks and Recreation Department. She really wanted to take ballet, but I think this was good starting point. After months of Friday night classes (never again will we sign up for Friday night classes) she had her first Dance Recital or Open House as they call it here. I am so glad that I took pictures during the practice that was earlier that day, since it was dark for the final performance and no flash photography. Now, had I consulted Therese she would have been able to let me know these things since she was a dancer.

Here are Erin and Eric patiently waiting for Emma to go through dress rehearsal. Thankfully there were some active boys in the seats behind us to keep Eric entertained most of the time.
By the way, check out Eric's eyebrow...he gets that from Josh.

Emma practicing on stage while Eric watched. Yes, I have given birth to Linus!

Eric playing around with my hat while Emma was dancing.

We missed the last practice due to our trip to the zoo in Omaha. Who would think they would have practice on Good Friday? Anyhow, between that and her nerves she was a bit behind during practice, but she did really well during the evening performance. Don't forget you can click on a picture to enlarge it, then use the backbutton to return to the blog.





All of our children can wink. Erin is so proud that she can do that now.

Emma came running up after her rehearsal. She was so excited that it went well.

Emma right before leaving for her recital.

Erin! I think this is the "Seig Heil Heiny Scratch" move?!

Above: Emma right before the program. She was a bit nervous.

Below: Some of the dancers waiting for their turn.

Emma's before and after

Thankfully another parent let me know to have flowers for Emma

Emma and her friend Maya pose for the camera. Eric just walked up to the wall for the pictures. I think he was thinking since mommy was taking pictures he better "assume the position!"

By the way, I have a video of the dance that I will post later