Pirates and frogs and trains, oh my!

Last week I was reading the paper and saw that a train expo was coming to the State Fairgrounds this weekend.  Knowing my three-year-old as well as I do, I figured that might be something fun to do.  However, once we got to the Fairgrounds we realized we did not have cash to pay for the parking.  (Just as an aside, why is it necessary to pay for parking when you have to pay to go to the event?  I guess I know why, but grrr...)  We then decided we would make a quick trip to the Children's Museum, see their new frog exhibit, and use the ATM to get cash.  When we arrived at the museum, though, I noticed that there was someone dressed up like a pirate. After seeing several people dressed like pirates I told Ryan, "I think it's Talk Like a Pirate Day!"  And sure enough, it was!  They were handing out head scarves with pirate treasure maps on them and eye patches.  There was steel drum band playing and different activities to emphasize pirate-y things.  What a pleasant surprise!  I love the Children's Museum!

One-Eyed Jack (his pirate name)

After enjoying a snack (Grant was in meltdown mode so we had to take a detour to the snack court), we headed on up to the frogs.  It was so cool because they had real frogs in cases.  The exhibit isn't quite as interactive as others they have had, but I enjoyed it, and I think the kids did as well.  It's pretty crazy to see all the different types of frogs and how unique each one is! 

Jack's teacher loves frogs so he wanted to take a picture with a frog to give to her.  I think this is pretty cute.

 

a poison dart frog

One of the crazy frogs--Ryan thinks it looks like Yoda.

 So, our "quick trip" into the Children's Museum wasn't so quick, but it was fun.  We eventually headed back to the train expo and had a good time.  Grant loved it, and Jack tolerated it. Caroline was content to just walk around, holding my hand. There were a lot of model trains, trains for sale, and a few things for kids.

This human powered train was a favorite of the boys.  They moved their little cars by pushing and pulling on the handle.  Jack, of course, had to be be in the lead. :)

Caroline looked on longingly at her brothers.  Someday she'll be out there with them.

Grant was in heaven!