South Dakota and Denver

We made a whirlwind trip through South Dakota on our way to Denver. We stopped at Storybook Island in Rapid City. It was a great little stop for a much needed break from the driving. 

After that quick stop, we continued the drive through vast wilderness to Denver. We spent the night, then met Chris' Mom and her husband at the Denver Children's Museum where the kids had a blast. We spent some time there, then moved to the Butterfly Pavilion where butterflies fly free. It was pretty neat, but a quick stop. They had alot of insects and spiders to see, including Rosie, the tarantula who you could hold. Chris decided he had better set aside his inhibitions for the sake of his children and held sweet little Rosie. Claire followed suit. She loved it. 

We finished our visit with a stop at the Cheesecake Factory. It was delish as always.

We said our good-byes to Chris' Mom, then made our way for the final surprise. Claire played with Ava's American Girl Doll the entire visit to her house. I swore I'd never buy that ridiculously priced doll, but Chris can be a sucker. He was all for it initially, then I jumped on board. There are only so many things you can buy a kid. Our kids aren't necessarily spoiled, but I am pretty practical about what I buy them. I don't see a point in buying something just to have it. Everything has a purpose and variety is key. Claire and Mya were pretty thrilled when we finally arrived. Claire wandered the store, looking at each and every doll, while Mya quickly spotted the double baby stroller. She set her territory and didn't part from that stroller the whole visit. We decided to buy her it only to find out that it was out of stock. It was a total meltdown. She was so cute even when she was totally heartbroken. We ordered the stroller and had it mailed to my parents' house. Claire selected "Makenna" along with the special brush, and a few outfits. She was delighted. She also got her a few more outfits and a carrying case from Mya for her birthday. It was a great memory and a lovely trip.

My princesses at Storybook Island.

Claire and Mya being eaten by the whale.

Claire fighting the fire at the Children's Museum.

Mya the artist.

Claire the artist.

Claire learning about aerodynamics.

Claire acting as a vet.

Popping the bubbles.

Making bubbles.

Claire and Mya in a nest.

Playing grocery store.

Bubbles with Meme'

Claire working on her project.

Total cheeziness and I'm not talking about Claire or Mya.

Swinging courtesy of Grandpa Dave.

Claire and Mya at the Butterfly Pavilion.

Chris being tough with Rosie.

Claire being so brave with Rosie the Tarantula.

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