Exploring and Learning

We checked out Family Fun Nights (FREE every Thursday night!) at the downtown Houston Children's Musuem. This was the first time we have been there, and it was awesome!! The majority of the exhibits are designed for older children, but we still found plenty of fun things to do. Ian tried stamping for the first time.
He needed some help but enjoyed picking out what color and leaf shape he wanted.
Here's his masterpiece. :)
Ian loved the "veterinarian's office" where he could carry around various stuffed animals.
But, the best place was the Toddler Spot designed for kids 2 and under!
The mini car and truck had a steering wheel (with a horn, of course!) in addition to a fake radio.
the ball pit
Momma's favorite part was this gigantic Lite Brite. It brought back some great memories of when I was little.
Of all the neat things he saw, Ian's favorite part of the museum was probably this kid-sized sink. He was thrilled that he could turn the water on and wash his hands all by himself!
This sideways dollhouse was perfectly designed for little ones. It had light switches to turn off and on, a toilet lever to flush, curtains to open, and a swing to push. Very clever.
climbing through the tunnel
The big kids' "Water Works" exhibit was very cool! What a fun evening at the museum!
The next morning, we spent some time with Eli and Micah and momma Kristy. They let Ian try out their dot painters.
Ian had never experimented with painting before, so he was especially fascinated.
On Saturday, we went to the Renaissance Festival with friends Chris and Lauren. As expected, there were some REALLY cool costumes and props (like the ones pictured above ... yes, there IS a baby in the intricately decorated carriage!) ... and some questionable ones, too.
Ian was a big fan of the magic/variety show,
complete with Oriental dancing,
a tightrope walker,
and juggling with fire.
We enjoyed beautiful Texas weather, great friends, and yummy fair food.
Ian's favorite part of the parade were the horses,
but the giant heads were also pretty interesting.
After lunch, we attended a jousting ... match?? Is that what you call it?
Our section of the audience cheered for England, but the match ended in a draw.


One of our last stops at the Renaissance Festival was the petting zoo, complete with horses,


sleeping, snoring (!) pigs,

goats,and, tree roots (which, of all things, Ian seemed most interested in!). Thanks, Chris and Lauren, for a fun time!