Toy drive and a carnival

After the horrible storms here in Al there has been a huge community effort to help and rebuild. Last week we went to a toy drive at Jump to it! clubhouse. The bouncy houses were free for the kids with a gently used or new toy. I had each of the kids pick a toy to donate. Ella had a REALLY hard time finding something she was willing to give up. She "loves all her toys" and didn't want to give anything away. We talked about charity, and helping others and such and finally she agreed to donate one of her princess barbies. Wes was easier, we picked one of his big dump trucks and headed over to have fun. The toy drive was very successful and there were a bunch of toys there to give out to the tornado victims. The kids had a blast jumping, it was a fun day and the kids learned a lesson about giving.





Tonight we went to the Madison City Police's summer Carnival. I knew carnivals were over priced an such- but I was amazed at how expensive the dorky rides were! It was $2 per person to get in, and $3-4 per ride then $2-$5 per game. We let each of the kids pick a ride (the attendent let Ella go on with Wes, even without tickets!) and they each played 2 games. Surprise, Surprise, Wesley decided to "Drive the big cars!" for his ride. He really enjoyed the ride. Ella decided to ride the teacups, she of course, rode the pink cup. They each played a game where you hit the plate with the hammer and ring the bell (prize every time) and one where you had to shoot the cup with the cork gun. Wes really liked the hammer one! We also got a popcorn to share. All that family fun for just $24! Ella and Wes both loved the prizes they won at the games and fun on the rides too, so it was a success. Then home for pizza and bed.