After a 6 month wait, we were finally able to return to Kings Island for opening day last Saturday April 27th. The weather was warmer and drier than last year, which was nice in spite of the crowds. Emma got to see all of the Peanuts characters, including Woodstock, whom we missed last year! Due to the long lines, we mostly stayed in the kids' area, Planet Snoopy. In spite of our many visits to amusement parks, it was a "first" for all of us when we got stuck going up the last hill on the log flume. I guess going on a 41-year-old ride after it's been sitting all winter was asking for it! Emma got a little teary-eyed, but the ride operators came and helped us out of the log and down the incline; Todd joked that we had always wanted a behind-the-scenes tour! The rest of the day went fine, concluding with fireworks and promises to return soon!
We stayed overnight in Cincinnati and went to the Boonshoft Museum in Dayton on Sunday. We'd taken Emma there a couple of years ago, but she didn't remember much about it. It's a science museum that caters to young kids with a 3-story climbing toy, a treehouse, pretend-play areas, and even an indoor zoo!
On May 17, Emma graduated from preschool with a special ceremony. She wore her new sundress from Grandma Karen and wore her hair in her new favorite style, french braid pigtails. She and her classmates sang a series of songs before a slide show and, finally, a parade across the stage where they received their diplomas. Afterwards, there was a reception of cake and goodies. Grandma Pat, Papa Larry, Grandma Karen, Grandma Coe, Aunt Linda, and of course Mommy and Daddy all attended. After the reception, we went out for lunch and enjoyed the beautiful day with a trip to the playground. Emma can't wait for Kindergarten to start!
