chalk fest

we made it back this year! we loved the sidewalk chalk festival at the art museum two years ago and finally got to go again. to make it even more special, we met my cousin, melanie, and her roommate, carmen. i haven't seen melanie in person since she was around two - to the best of our memories - so this was pretty special.

we were originally going to meet yesterday, but it was a rainout. today ended up being perfect! things were pretty crowded and loud outside (there is live music) so we did a lap around to take in the sights and then went back inside to check out the museum and actually have some conversation.

melanie and me (a less flattering picture of me might not be possible)

madelyn is going to be joy for halloween

madelyn wanted to sit by this persian tent. the museum staff was kind enough to wait until we took our picture to point out that she couldn't sit there - as it said right where she sat down.

melanie had just as much fun as the kids in the hands-on kids area. and that is saying something because the kids love it! the boys were really taken with this touch screen wall where they could draw over the art works shown. manning stuck with melanie at the magnetic block table. he built square after square.

madelyn moved over to the balance set once it freed up.

it was a perfect way to spend the afternoon! i hope that we get to visit with melanie again soon. love.