Those Disappearing Chickens

Two of our chickens have learned how to "disappear" when it's time for the chicken pen.  The first time, we assumed that something had gotten both of them.  Surprising Mel the next morning, they were in the breezeway of the barn waiting.

A few days ago I saw all eight when we were moving hay.  Later, "pen time" they were nowhere to be found.  We have not figured out where they go.  

With coyotes and some dogs around they are living dangerously!

This is one of the chickens that "disappears".  The other one, a black chicken, had already been put in the barn by Mel.  She did not seem to be concerned - just wondering where the other chickens were.

When we drove up, she went into the outside pen - we had moved them to the inside pen because of weather.

Beautiful Snow!

Last week we were blessed with 4 inches of snow and also rain.  How strange it was to see the snow on the ground then hear thunder with the rain.
Our ponds have caught some much needed water and the ground is soaking up the moisture.
How thankful we are for the moisture in whatever form it can be gotten.

The Great Wolf Lodge

Time for the Bradford Family Get-Together at The Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine, Texas.
Everyone was excited and thrilled that all were healthy and ready for the fun and adventure!
The Elliott Family came to the farm Wednesday afternoon to spend the night.

Since it would be Valentine's Day when we met at the Lodge, we needed red velvet cream-filled cupcakes with cream cheese icing.

Jett opened his birthday gift and card from Grandmom and Grandpop.  Hard to believe that he would be 8 years old on Sunday!

Thursday,  after chores were done we headed south.  The Woods Family headed north - our destination was The Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine, Texas.
Starbucks at Ardmore was a stop we made.  After enjoying coffee, hot chocolate and some bakery items we headed further south.

 Since we had a little time before checking in, we shopped at historic downtown Grapevine.  Many shops had unique items.  Grapevine Olive Oil Company was where we purchased pasta, flavored balsamic vinegars and seasonings for dipping.
The weather was gorgeous!  A temperature of 68 degrees with very little wind made the shopping time very enjoyable.

Lunch was at P.F. Chang's Restaurant - it was very good!

After checking in we put our bracelets on with Amberlea's assistance.  These were our room keys as well as allowed entrance to the water park.

All 11 of us!

Mel had worked hard to "drop" 15 pounds

Fun in the Waterpark!

Pizza was the meal that evening.  After being in the water all afternoon, it was nice to just have pizza in the room.

Arcade Fun

The girls spent the first night in our room

Jett came over early the next morning to play with the girls.

He elected to spend the night with the older boys.

Doughnuts from Kountry Donut Shop was breakfast so everyone could be in the water when the park opened at 9:00 that morning.

After several hours in the water, we were ready for a late lunch.  Mexican food sounded good so we asked the desk for recommendations.  They had 3.  We selected their first one and it was a good choice!

Esparado's Mexican Restaurant

The past 2 years the girls and I have gotten a Christmas ornament.  This year each of the grandkids selected one as well.

Many swimsuits drying on the shower rod

Mel had to deal with "2 left feet" flip flops.  I just grabbed his flip flops off the shelf - needless to say I didn't notice that they were the left from 2 different sets of flip flops.  He was a good sport about it.

The boys spent the second night in our room.  They enjoyed coffee before we headed to breakfast.

What's left of the birthday cookie cake we had for Jett's birthday.

Time to check-out

Waiting for the cars to load luggage

Breakfast at the Old West Cafe before heading home

Funny sayings: 

McKaylea - "We don't have to make our beds here!"

 Jett               "When "reservating" for next year,  could we do a day or two longer?

Funny Story:

   When it was bedtime with the boys, Jett started our in the bed with Jacob.  Later he moved to the pull-out couch with Mathew.  Jacob asked where he was and that he thought Jett was sleeping in his bed.  Jett replied, "If you want me, you have to beg!"

                        

                           

Another fun and memorable time at The Great Wolf Lodge!