Daddy's Birthday Weekend

Jeremy's birthday fell on a Friday this year. He wanted to take a last-minute trip to Seattle to celebrate, and we did! The trip over and back went relatively fast and was pretty smooth with the kids; however, the construction near Cle Elum was awful. We sat in traffic for roughly an hour both ways--a six mile stretch. AHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!! We stayed with my brother-in-law Oliver and sister-in-law-to-be Emily. Oliver had Aeden for the weekend. Jordyn was suuuuper excited to spend the time with her cousin. I feel like we'd have to spend at least a week there to do everything we'd like, but we did cram a lot in a short time. We got to eat at Emily's restaurant. She is the head chef. We were really excited to try it, as she has made us really yummy food, while visiting here. You can imagine the excitement choosing from an extensive menu! I'm trying to work out a trip this winter when she changes part of her menu to Italian--my fave! We'll see what happens! Either way, we'll be back for their wedding this summer. Can't wait!
Our major event was the Woodland Park Zoo. Last time we were on the coast we went to the Point Defiance Zoo. I can't even remember how young I was when I last visited Woodland! I love them both. I almost think I am more of a fan of Point Defiance, though.
The girls at the lion statue, Woodland Park Zoo.

The girls LOVED the animals. There were so many cute little critters. The elephants danced for us and the monkeys performed. I think monkeys are adorable! The girls really enjoyed playing in the play area at the end. I was really impressed by all there was to do and explore. I'm excited for the outdoor center we are getting in the Spokane Valley. I guess it will be similar to the indoor play land at this zoo. Jeremy's company is working on it, and the plans look pretty exciting. Of course this is a year or so away, but it will be another fun thing to do! Can't wait!

The girls playing at the indoor center/playground. Kennedy isn't Kennedy without trying to climb something!!!

Jordyn will finally ride the carousel and loves it! The girls were pretty excited to ride one different than the one in here. Jordyn is sporting her new hat she bought at the North Bend Outlet Malls. I couldn't get either girl to wear a hat to save my life, after they were about 6 months old. Now, we can't get Jordyn to take this one off! This is a neat carousel and building. I just wish you could purchase tickets at a stand versus a coin machine. WHAT A PAIN!

We made a trip to Ikea. I didn't eat there, but one of these days it will happen. I did get to eat at Popeye's. Oh, how I love their Cajun food. Mmmmm....I found a lot of things at Ikea to aid in my obsession: ORGANIZING. I was more than thrilled to get home and put my bins, hooks, and such to use. Even with a life-long Seattle resident in the van, we managed to miss our on ramp back to Seattle. It's so easy to get lost over there. Happens every time we visit Ikea. Holy cow. I say it's worth it! Before we left for home, we drove past the troll under the bridge in many movies. Jordyn says he's scary. We also hit the Freemont market. It's a nice change from Pike; although, there are many elements to the Pike Market we missed. I will say, it was nice pushing a double stroller through a much better crowd than Pike!

One day I will convince Jeremy to move over there. Until then, I will just have lots of fun as a tourist.