Treasure Hunt for Toddlers

With a young three-year old and a one and half year old, I'm trying to find some more intentionality in our days. We have an amazing setup at home and there are so many opportunities for goodness, fun, learning, and life. 

Lately, we've been taking a morning walk almost daily. It's been great! I've been wanting to get back in shape in a way that does not include some random workout video that has any sort of plyometric (Hello back pain!) and I always try to get the boys outside when it's not insanely hot mixed with thousands of mosquitoes. The morning walks have been lovely. Even more lovely because we've been going with our neighbors (Biggest blessing ever!).

Our walks have been fun, not only because we get to go with friends, but also because we get to explore. There is a pond that we visit and it has a beautiful black swan with oodles of ducks and turtles scattered throughout. Fun times these are friends. The boys love it and mama gets friend time and exercise! Win-win, for sure!

On the days we don't go for our walk we will either go to the pool or to the park. And, as much fun as the park is, the toddlers usually head my way because apparently I'm pretty wonderful (In their eyes.). I tell them to go explore, play, run, climb, etc. etc. etc but sometimes they just need a little direction. Or, at least it seems that way now.

So, I decided we would have a more intentional fun day at the park. I prepped my toddlers by telling them that today we were going to go explore and find treasures. Even though I got the what-is-she-talking-about faces, I went with it, made a treasure chest (Thank you, Kroger grocery bag and packaging tape!) and we headed out with our sweet and simple nature treasure list. 

Bigfoot took to the Nature Treasure Hunt all of 10 minutes. He was over my 20-questions and just wanted to swing. But, once we found the cicada (locust) it was a game changer. Sticks galore, acorns, grass, flowers, and more were found. So. Many. Treasures! We were always on the hunt for more cicada leftovers but weren't very lucky. 

Linus was content to watch from his little swing perch holding his one stick perfect for his sweet hands. Eventually, though, he did want in on the fun and found various colored leaves and more sticks.

Linus must not have been terribly impressed with our findings because the little guy ended up dumping everything out the moment he was alone with the treasure chest. Not cool, little man, not cool (I mama-rescued the situation before Bigfoot could notice his hard work had been tossed. Luckily, it was all in one place in the play house).

Overall, I chalk this up as a nature success. We talked about the cicadas, the acorns and who eats them, the beautiful leaves of different colors and how they change with seasons, talked about the properties of sticks, and more. The boys were sweaty, covered with dirt (somehow this just happens with boys no matter what they are doing outside), and accomplished. Good times were had and Bigfoot was so excited to share with Daddy all he found. 

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How do you engage your littles outside? What would you add to our little list?

Chango skills

Bigfoot has been trying to climb up a level on this jungle gym since he saw some older neighborhood kids having their fair share of fun climbing to their little hearts desire. He spent some time at the slides, running like a cheetah, throwing pebbles at the giant slide, and swinging. Eventually he made his way to his little mountain.

He hung around, per usual. Nothing big, but still fun.

But then, you could just see his little brain churning. Trying to problem solve his way up the bars of fun.

Little brother found his way over too. Like I always find myself saying these days, Brother see, brother do.

After some more trial and error, things started to click. Grasps had more purpose and foot placement was more intentional.

Trial and error. On he went.

Till something happened!

He did it!

And, not only did he climb up level numero uno of the jungle gym, his dismount was pretty fantastic.

And, seeing the joy, pride, and excitement in his little face was worth every second! So glad I caught this new little skill on my phone camera!

I could have watched you climb up and down all day. You were amazing, brave, adventurous, and quite the little problem-solver. While you were climbing and dismounting there was always a slight hint of panic mixed with exhilaration that could be seen in your eyes. So glad you were able to enjoy the ride of accomplishing this little feat. This is what his non-panic/disbelief/extremely excited look was after the very first time he dismounted. Submitting this gem of a moment for Theme Thursday over at Cari's.

Well done my my little chango! Well done.

5 Ways to Enjoy South Padre Island

I grew up going to South Padre Island, Texas. It's like a second home that I carry with me in my heart. It holds memories of sunshine, family, laughter, and lots of love. So, you can imagine how happy I get every time I get to return to, what I call, my happy place.

Seeing how I've spent many a day at this beautiful treasure we have in the great state of Texas I thought I'd share a few favorites that always make the happy days of yesterday continue to bring joy into my now.

1. All things before the Queen Isabella Causeway!

As wonderful as South Padre Island is, and as many wonderful things it has to offer, please consider Port Isabel. The bay side. There are amazing restaurants (*Ahem* Isabel's Cafe), my favorite little Catholic church, and so many other touristy fun things to do.

The Sea Life Center is great for kiddos. I shared more photos of this fun place in a post last year. Most everything is eye level for our littles and they have a hands on tank. It's small enough to keep their attention and jam packed with Island souvenir favorites.

It's also located right across the way from the Port Isabel Lighthouse and other wonderful shops and restaurants (within walking distance).

The Port Isabel Lighthouse is an amazing landmark with lots of history. They also started Friday Night Movie at the Lighthouse. They get a projector and play movies on the base of the Lighthouse. There is a great grassy knoll surrounding that is perfect for a blanket picnic.

Pirates Landing Pier was great for us this year for a number of reasons. First off, every Friday night they have an awesome Firework display over on the Island side. We went last year and my oldest was not a fan. This year we decided we would watch it across the way and his remarks were constant about how, "I like fie-works now" or, "look mama, sprinkles. It does not soun like tunder. I like fie-works, mama."

Haha, we were so far away there was not a sound to be heard other than the gulf. The fireworks did look like sprinkles in the sky and all were happy. The salty breeze was perfect and seeing all the people out fishing on the pier was fun. At the start of the pier there are a couple yummy restaurants and music in the evenings. Good stuff people!

So, before you cross the amazing Queen Isabella's Causeway, make sure you enjoy the fruits of Port Isabel. 

There are lots and they are fun!

 1. Sea Turtle Inc. & The Birding Center

Now getting to the Island side of life there are two places that are great. First is Sea Turtle Inc., home of the first functioning prosthetic fin for a sea turtle named Allison.

I remember growing up going to this place when it was in its smaller location. I loved it. I would look forward to seeing "The Turtle Lady". Do click to find out more about her! She was a phenomenal woman with such path! 

She founded this wonderful place that has helped so many of these beautiful endangered species.

Haha, Love that they have a turtle named J.F. WH05P!

The boys absolutely loved this place. Linus kept pointing and grunting at all the sea turtles. And, Bigfoot, despite being sleepy, really enjoyed the over 200lb sea turtle named Fred.

The great thing about Sea Turtle Inc. new location is that it's right next door to the beautiful South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center. You could easily walk if you wanted but we drove because of kids in tow and all. 

As much as we saw some beautiful birds, the grounds were gorgeous.

The path was a bit of a workout (Disclaimer: I'm very out of shape.) and scenic, which is always a plus.

So, when the weather is beach perfect or when you want something different to do, go enjoy these two local places!

 4. Seafood and Nighttime fun

The seafood! It's delicious at most every restaurant you go to. But, my very very very very veryyyyyy favorite is Dirty Al's. Their seafood dishes and prices can't be beat. I wrote about how I love them so much last summer too!

Without a doubt, I make sure we get to Dirty Al's at least once when at SPI.

Nighttime fun comes in all forms too. I mentioned Pirate's Pier earlier. There is great nighttime fishing along the pier complete with lots of space and a snackbar.

The nighttime views are incredible. Both on Port Isabel and on South Padre Island.

Firework displays are everywhere to be found both on the Port Isabel side and SPI. The SPI one has always been the one I've seen and it is pretty grand.

One of my favorite childhood memories is going to the beach at night. Grab a flashlight and a bucket or two to go collect random shells and to go crab-hunting. Go when it's dark and just have fun. It's great for all ages (if your kids can tolerate a random late bedtime). 

3. Dolphin Watch 

Who doesn't love dolphins and pirate ships?? There are dolphin watches on both the Port Isabel and SPI side. Meaning there is easy access on non-beach days regardless if you so happen to be staying on the Island or Port Isabel.

This last time we saw a big family of dolphins that just played and played nearby. It was so great!

The kids loved it!

Just be sure to snag a coupon at any local shop or to-do on the island. Coupons are everywhere and help curb the cost.

 5. The beach.

I know. It's a no-brainer. But, seriously, this beach. Gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous! Filled with so many opportunities for memories, love, and fun!

Mud castles, body surfing, floating the waves, relaxing, sand castles, sunshine and awesomeness!

Whenever at South Padre Island the key thing to remember is to get thyself to the beach as often as possible. Enjoy the water. Enjoy the clear skies. And, just soak up His Majesty!

I promise you won't be disappointed!

South Padre Island is one of the many treasures that Texas holds. I'm so very grateful for all the memories that I had there growing up and am so excited my little heart could burst for all the memories that will be made in the years to come with our little family!

Have you been to South Padre? I know this is only the tip of the iceberg. There's para-sailing, horseback riding, jet skies, and so much more! What would you add to the list?

Linking up with wonderful Heather for Five Favorites and with Cari for Theme Thursday (vacation).

7QT: Memories and Recipes

Ah! Jen is right! Christmas is just a little over a week away! When did that happen? Suppose it's only right that I finally put up our Thanksgiving memories. Photo story ahead along with a few recipes!

--- 1 ---

The boys.

For starters, we don't have a TV. And my dad and brother felt the only way Thanksgiving could actually be had at our place was with one. So, my brother so generously brought his over. There was football all. day. long. And, Bigfoot just did not know what to do with himself. Haha. Honestly, I'm just glad he didn't knock it over!

Linus, in Linus-fashion, was all over the place. Uninterested in the foreign object that became the center of our living room. He was sweet all day long and held by all!

All in all, these little monkeys had a great day and loved having Papa Ram, Nana, Uncle Godfather, Erin, my cousin and her boyfriend over for the day.

--- 2 ---

The Fluffs.

This little fluff loved having everyone's tablescraps. She patiently waited around the kitchen and table all day long. Pretty sure she loved it.

This little one mostly slept, snuggled anything for warmth, and kept as much distance between her and the boys as she could. She's not a fan of little ones and their little ways.

--- 3 ---

Our extended hearts.

This handsome couple loved on the boys and us all week! The boys loved every minute with them (Bigfoot especially loved having free reign of Nana's iPad) and we loved all the help we got from having four extra arms around!

We loved seeing these cuties too! The boys love their Uncle Godfather and enjoy playing with Erin too! Time with them is always such a treat!

My brother's mini-me.

Uncle A's mini-me with my brother.

And we had these two over too! Loved seeing them for Thanksgiving! Karla, even though you aren't a fan of living up here in North Texas, know that I've loved seeing you the few times we have!

--- 4 ---

The Feast!

Twas uhhh-mazing!!!!

This was my plate. Get a load of that buttered roll!

The stuffing my mom made was so delicious! Best I've ever had! Haha, and you may be thinking that's a funny thing to say, but I honestly never cared for stuffing until a couple years ago. Between this and my sweet potato casserole, my taste-buds were doing a happy dance all day!

This boy was a fan!

Okay, I found this recipe from Gimme Some Oven and it was perfect! I even overcooked the pecan pie a smidge and it was still soooo good! Husband even said it was the best he'd had and pecan pie is his favorite! I look forward to making this recipe again and often!

These pumpkin muffins were had for breakfast and for some daytime snacking. I made half the batch with cranberries and the other half with dark chocolate chunks. These are yummy two ingredient muffins I've been making for years. Just a can of pumpkin and a spice cake mix mixed together and baked for a good 18 minutes. Voila! Yummy and Pumpkin-y! However, I just found this recipe and I think I may try it out next for our annual Bible Study White Elephant party.

There were more desserts that were had. Lots of beer. Lots of wine. And I made a deep red apple cider which I found to be yummy since I love cider. All in all it was a beautiful turnout!

--- 5 ---

Food Choma Family Pictures

The women.

The men.

Love the boys in this picture. We had to take a number of these. They got old pretty quick, but you do what you have to in order to capture the moments. 

My Mom and I with the boys. Linus was so funny during these pictures. He all of sudden smiling was so much fun! Smiling and the sweetest little pretty eyes blinky thing he never does when asked. Haha. It was great!

The boys were pretty tired come evening. Lots of evening snuggles were had.

--- 6 ---

Post-Thanksgiving Fun!

Next evening we headed out to Frisco Square for this amazing light show! It was a beautiful little winter wonderland!

Complete with fake snow flurries flying around! So fun!

This little one had fun because he got himself some popcorn from the candy store.

And this sweet little bundle stayed pretty mesmerized by it all despite how cold it was out!

All had fun. Even though we didn't stay terribly long, it was a nice time.

Not sure how long the display stays up but I sure do hope we make it out once more!

--- 7 ---

All in all, we had such a wonderful Thanksgiving. We celebrated with loved ones we are so very thankful and prayed in thanksgiving for all those blessings that we didn't get to see.

The fall season always brings the holidays in such a rush, but I love how the very seasons themselves are always calling us to slow down. Be present. Be in love. Share. Give. Hope. Be joyful! Wait. Smile. Rejoice!

Another year filled with goodness. Looking forward to celebrating the birth of Our Lord!

For more Quick Takes, visit Conversion Diary!