Minneapolis Marathon Weekend

Claire was lucky enough to qualify for Regionals in swimming this year. The meet was at the University of Minnesota, in Minneapolis, so we decided to have a marathon weekend of fun!

We packed a lot of fun in a small amount of time, but no one seemed to mind!

We spent two days at the Mall of America. One whole afternoon just on the rides!

Avery loved the Merry Go Round. She also liked making sure we were following "map".

The great thing about Avery, even at an amusement park, she can make her own fun!

The big girls loved the log ride. Lucky Mom and Dad each got to ride it several times!

Our next stop was the Aquarium. The RouseHouse loves a good Aquarium.

Ella, my beautiful treasure!

Of course, we couldn't go to the MOA without a trip, a very long trip, to the American Girl Store.

First a little dinner with our dolls, then a lot of shopping! Avery even got in on the shopping fun this year!

Finally, the swim meet. The two day event was a great learning experience for us all. It was a bit overwhelming, but by the end of the second day, we felt pretty good.

Claire did great! She led off her relay team to a 12th place finish, good enough for her first Regionals ribbon!

She also competed in an individual event, and while nervous, still managed to keep her qualifying time!

Best part, she did it! She worked hard, trained hard, and learned a lot! Way to go Claire!

The other best part, our team won! Walnut Creek Dolphins took 1st again this year! What a privilege to be a part of such a great, and winning team!

Claire and her relay team.

Avery passed the time with a little Diego on the Ipod.

Finally, the water park. Between the swim meet, the Aquarium, the Mall of America and the AG store, we found some time to relax at the waterpark in our hotel. All three of my little fish really enjoyed it.

A great weekend was had by all! Now I need a vacation! : )