ABQ Trip - Day 4

Our next Albuquerque outing was going to the BioPark. The zoo was celebrating a "thank the community" day and offering free admission, so we readily took advantage of that. Not surprisingly, the crowds were a bit crazy, but it was hard to argue about a free ticket! The kiddos enjoyed seeing a wide variety of animals. 

This howler monkey was making all kinds of loud, fun noises for us!

When Jaden and Cody got tired of walking, they were spoiled by various family members. :)

 It was a beautiful weather day at the zoo!

Back at Grammy and Papa's home, I had the privilege of reading to the four boys while lunch was being prepared. These little book lovers all sat still for several books in a row.

After naptime, we set up a water table (courtesy of one of Grammy & Papa's neighbors-- how nice!)...

...and a pool (transported all the way from TX by Matt and Kim's family).

Uncle Andrew had the crazy idea to rig up a clothesline-swing from the tree.

The kids loved Uncle Andrew's creativity! Jaden, Abby, and Ian were the bravest and most eager participants.

Also in the afternoon, Grammy pulled out a special activity for her grandkids. She played a tape recording of little Amy (as a 4 or 5 year old) reading a few simple books. It was hard for the kids to believe that the little voice belonged to me! They all giggled at my funny pronunciations (as I was still unable to pronounce my "r" sound). Grammy followed along with the book Inside, Outside, Upside Down.

Then Grammy held up picture cards and had the kids identify whether the object was inside, outside or upside down. They all seemed to love this game! Great ideas, Grammy and Papa!

 Each night that we were together, we enjoyed a dinner prepared by a different couple. This night was Drew and Sarah's turn in the kitchen, and we were treated with a wonderful meal of BBQ chicken and sweet potato fries. Yum! Grammy and Papa had devised an extra long banquet table for us to use at mealtimes. It was great to have our crew all sitting together.