Day 1: We ring in the new year with the kids unable to make it to the fireworks set off by my neighbors.  Although making an appearance at their party, the night was cut short when Cal was so tired he lay face down on their fuzzy rug and invited his dad back "to my house".  Aww. On 1/1 we had a traditional Southern New Year's meal with black-eyed peas for luck, leftorver Christmas ham fried up to represent the "hog jaw", and steamed spicy spinach (OK, so it's supposed to be collards, but I was using up the leftovers!).  I think I played dolls with Eileigh but it's hard to remember...with the in-laws in town, I know playing was done!

Day 2: Played with Eileigh when she went to a buddy's 4th birthday party at Southern Prep, a gymnastics and cheerleading place.  Jumped on trampolines, threw around blocks from the foam pit, and generally watched her enjoy herself.  She looked so big - at 5 she's one of the oldest ones there!  Also was nearly sold by the girl working the party on "pre-team" cheerleading team for girls ages 4-8...hmmm.  Although to be honest it wasn't a very hard sell.  She would have a ball - must explore further when reevaluating kids' activities in March.  We have limited it to 2 each which has been manageable.  We went out to eat in Marietta Square with my in-laws - the kids stayed at home with our favorite babysitter!

Day 3: Our 6th Anniversary!  With it being my MIL and FIL's last day here before returning to Scotland, we decide to embark on the coldest Zoo trip ever - 20 degrees!  We had a lot of fun exploring the reptile house, kangaroos, and spending a LOT of time with the Pandas up close.  There was NO ONE there but a few other families who were obviously stir crazy.  And not just crazy, like us.  Cal was so cute and Eileigh was a trooper in the cold, even despite a barfing incident that morning.  DH and I felt awful after nagging her to go to the bathroom and generally downplaying her whines - well, she showed us!  And then she felt better.