Adventures of the Barretts: Celebrating 40 years

No, we aren't 40 years old.

However, this August, my parents will celebrate their 40th Anniversary. To celebrate, we all went to their home in Cave Creek, AZ for some fun in the sun. Despite the cool temperatures to start the week (it was 20 degrees warmer in Elsie the first day we were there!) we had an awesome time swimming and spending time together. Here are some highlights:

This is how you wear out kids before a 9:00 pm flight. OK, it actually didn't work all that well, but it kept everyone waiting for the plane quite entertained.

See, don't they look tired????

Mason slept a little bit, but Sam thought it was more entertaining to talk to everyone on the plane. Oh well!!
We spent most of our time enjoying the pool:

Sam LOVED to float and play in the water

Mason couldn't get enough of jumping into the pool and making the "biggest" splash

Fun in the sun

There also several trips around town:

Fun at Cracker Jax:

A little Putt-Putt

Go-carts

Sticking close to Nick

While the guys golfed, the girls took the kids to the Wildlife World Zoo and Aquarium. We had gone there on our honeymoon 8 years ago, and it was just beginning. It has turned into quite a cool place. If you plan to ever go there, I recommend that you use as many coupons as possible, as it is a bit pricey for my cares.

Hands on exhibit

Sam attempting to swim with the crocodiles...

Since we were in a new area, there were lots of new experiences. We got to try out some new restaurants-many that we will plan to go back to including: Old Town Tortilla Factory, Harold's Corral, Big Earl's Greasy Eats, and Barro's Pizza.

Bryan and I often emphasize that we are not what you would call "role model" parents. This is one of those examples. Yes, the boys are eating hot dogs for breakfast. Yes, they loved them. And, no, I don't have any regrets about giving them hot dogs for breakfast!