SWAPA Chili Cook Off

Each year, Neal's office participates in a Chili cook-off that Southwest puts on - it is a ton of fun for families because they rent out Sandy Lake Park, which has tons of amusement rides for the kids.  We have missed the past couple of years, but were very excited to go again this year.  The last time we went, we took Landon with us, so we invited him to come again this year, too!

 Train rides

 The pony ride was Meredith's favorite.  She said it made "her dreams come true"

Posing with Daddy at his chili table

 Don't forget Landon!!

 Gigi of course joined us, too - and she only rides the super exciting rides, like the carousel.

The first ride that we rode was the dragon roller coaster, on Jillian's request.  Problem was, only she would ride.  Landon saw pictures from our trip several years ago (he and I rode it together back then) and he was insistent on the entire trip that he WOULD NOT ride it again.  Meredith was out, too.  Jillian and I had a blast on it (well, Jillian had fun and I tried to keep circulation in my legs!) Then, of course, Landon had changed his mind.  But he would not hold up his hands. After he rode with me, Meredith decided to give it a try, too.  After that ride, all Landon wanted to do was ride the dragon!  We rode lots of other rides, too, of course, but this was the favorite.  We finally found, our friend, Sarah, and she joined us to ride (which meant I got a break since everyone had a partner!)

 Riding with big kid Sarah gave Meredith some bravery!

 Jillian was still having fun - Landon stayed extra safe.

The saddest part of the day was when Sarah, Meredith, and Landon went to ride a big swing ride. Jillian was desperate to go, but was too little. She was so sad.  She can't wait for next year when she can be big enough!  I was trying to encourage her that she would be bigger soon, but then she would tear up and say "but you want me to stay little!" And since that day, she will ask if she is bigger enough yet.  

Last, but not least, we stole Daddy from serving Chili to ride the fastest roller coaster with the kids.