In previous years, Easter always fell around the time of Todd's spring break-- i.e. when he was away in LA. This year, however, Easter arrived LATE-- a few weeks after school resumed from spring break. So we finally had a chance to explore one of the many Easter Egg Hunts around Santa Barbara. We settled on Girsh Park because it was the closest to us, and I knew parking at the shopping center adjacent to it would be plentiful.
We arrived on time, got a paper bag for him to decorate (since we neglected to bring his Easter basket-- never mind that he had several in his room!) and waited at the age-specific zone, which was gated off till 11:00am sharp. Then the whistle blew, the gates flew open, and the kids rushed in. I had barely had a chance to get into position to take pictures when the kids came back out-- they were done! Dozens and dozens of kids Todd's age had combed the entire grassy area and picked it clean of plastic eggs. I helped Todd open the eggs, dump the candy into his bag, and return the plastic shells. THAT was over quick.
We spent the rest of the morning wandering around, playing on the bouncy castle, playing on the playground, and wrapped it up with lunch at McDonald's before heading out for some shopping. Fun morning, and not a bad way to experience a public Easter Egg Hunt! Maybe next year we'll try one of the other venues :-)
Earth Day and Rio
Todd and I enjoyed the festivities at Earth Day downtown near the Kids' World park. Ate healthy, organic food, visited earth-friendly vendor booths, marveled at eco-friendly inventions for the home, listened to stories, played games, and cooled off in a tent showing eco-oriented movies. All in all, it was a fun and relaxing day, and a perfect opportunity to enjoy the warm, sunny SB weather outdoors.
That evening, after dinner, the family trooped down to the drive-in to catch a showing of "Rio". It was Todd's first trip to the drive-in ever, and we all had a blast! It was nice to let Todd move around in his seat and make as much noise as he wanted, without worrying about disturbing other patrons. Kicking off our shoes and putting our feet up on the dash was comfortable. Bringing in our own snacks and drinks was cost-effective. And the prices overall were cheaper than a regular theater, as well. Only downside was the all the inconsiderate SUVs in front of us, who parked with their hatches open, blocking our view of the bottom part of the screen. But we had an enjoyable evening nonetheless. First family drive-in experience? A success! :-)
That evening, after dinner, the family trooped down to the drive-in to catch a showing of "Rio". It was Todd's first trip to the drive-in ever, and we all had a blast! It was nice to let Todd move around in his seat and make as much noise as he wanted, without worrying about disturbing other patrons. Kicking off our shoes and putting our feet up on the dash was comfortable. Bringing in our own snacks and drinks was cost-effective. And the prices overall were cheaper than a regular theater, as well. Only downside was the all the inconsiderate SUVs in front of us, who parked with their hatches open, blocking our view of the bottom part of the screen. But we had an enjoyable evening nonetheless. First family drive-in experience? A success! :-)
