The Big Visit Means a BIG Blog Post

Grandpa and Grandma Onines came to visit the Jensen home. Alayna had a list of things she really wanted to do with her grandparents. Visit the Alamo, make a craft, bake cookies, eat pizza, go bowling and go swimming. Read on to see how we did.

Arriving late Thursday night the children allowed their grandparents to sleep in Friday morning while we went to the gym. After, an enjoyable afternoon was spent getting to know each other. Grandma makes that fun by bringing projects.
Saturday, the grandparents watched the children while Paul and I went for a run together.
The main event was Lex's baby blessing on Sunday.

Little brag, notice my knitting.
The blanket was from Alayna's blessing, the vest from Cavell's blessing and the booties where knit for Lex.

Monday I encouraged my parents to take a true vacation day for themselves and sent them to Gruene. I think they had a good day. We went to the grocery store.

Tuesday the kids and I spent a fantastic afternoon with my parents visiting the Wildlife Ranch.

This was the best shot I could get of the children and the absolute JOY they had on the safari.

In the petting zoo Cavell briskly walked from goat to goat giving them a pat or a hug and telling them, "hello."

Alayna really wanted the goats to eat out of her hand.

Grandpa got up close and personal with the zebras.

Grandpa said he wanted to experience real Texas bbq while here and we delivered. Paul introduced them to Cooper's BBQ. They ordered pork ribs.

Wednesday, oblivious to the flooding in our town, we took a trip down to the Alamo. (Does anyone else always think of Pee-Wee Herman when the Alamo is mentioned? Just asking.) I managed to take NO pictures of this outing. It was a quick trip. Paul called me, worried about more flooding, and wanted to make sure his family was able to get home. I don't think any of us minded. It was HOT and I don't think we would have lasted long enough to meander along the Riverwalk.

Thursday my parents ventured out on their own again. I believe the BX was involved. Anyone that knows my dad will not be surprised. They also visited Natural Bridge Caverns.

Friday we went bowling at the base. Alayna was excited, but Cavell was in LOVE.

The ramp was GREAT! No waiting as a child's ball r_o__l___l____s down the lane.

GPAW shared his first roll with Cavell. They had a rough time as a team. For the next game Cavell got his own game, and Grandpa was able to bowl a better game.

Grandpa even holds babies when they cry.

Saturday began with some baking. This is something the children love to do, and it was a chance to show Grandma how much they enjoy their Christmas presents.

Oh, they made snicker-doodles, by the way.
They are delicious, like eating tasty air.

Grandma had heard about a cultural fair at the Institute of Culture and wanted to go. Driving around to find parking, we realized it was quite crowded. Walking from our parking spot, through a different fair and to the entrance, we realized it was VERY HOT and we were not prepared beyond sunblock. The poor children were very red and based on the number of people Alayna was bumping into I would say they were close to heat exhaustion. We decided an outdoor fair was not a good idea.

We went to Mi Tierra at Market Square instead. Lots of water later, and a good meal, we had an enjoyable time wandering around the market while Paul waited in line for the bakery for some dulces.

This little gal was singing in the square. She's only 12. She was amazing. I think Cavell was in love; he sat right down on the pavement to listen to her. We were getting rosey from the heat again. I don't know how she could handle it and sing.

After church, Sunday, Grandma and Grandpa were able to enjoy some gluten free pizza with the family before they had to pack for their early flight. There was also a fashion show, but I think that deserves its own post.

Thank you for the visit. We love you and hope you had as great a time with us as we had with you.