Sweet Wild Violet

Monday, December 22, 2014

Zozobra

A local Zozobra! Releasing troubles into the flames. From Wikipedia, a more thorough explanation: Zozobra ("Old Man Gloom") is a giant marionette effigy that is built and burned every autumn during Fiestas de Santa Fe in Santa Fe, New Mexico. As his name suggests, he embodies gloom; by burning him, people destroy the worries and troubles of the previous year in the flames.

State Fair

This was Violet's first state fair. We were out to accomplish 3 things: win an overpriced stuffed animal, ride rides, eat junk food, and perhaps go to the arts and crafts booths for a bonus. I was hoping for a well rounded first experience.

She was excited!

Rides--check!

The petting zoo was my favorite part of the fair. Violet loved loved loved the chickens! Not what I expected.

Stuffed animal and tired girl near the end of the fair

Ferris Wheel fun~

We had cotton candy and a smoked turkey leg for lunch, and headed home, hot and tired! Violet has a lot of fun, and I remembered why I haven't been to the state fair in 10 years! Haha! I think we'll hit the crafts and fairs and cultures center first next time.

Tuesday, December 2, 2014

Moab

Over labor day weekend, we were very fortunate to get to meet Bryan, Jenny, Ava, Isaac, and Willow for a quick trip in Moab. We spent lots of time in the Colorado river, swimming. Spent a long day floating down the river in a couple of boats. Went to see Dead Horse Point State Park on our last evening together. So much beauty and wonder! We got a small tease, and need to make this an annual event!

Dead Horse State Park! Me and one of my favorite people, Waseem!

Violet drawing the sunset.

Ava reading her book!

Happy boys

Sweet sweet Willow

Collaborative Art

Violet really wanted to tote Willow around like a doll. Willow was very vocal about when and if the attention was okay! Crackers made it a worthwhile experience!

We took a break on our float, and the kids changed into happy mud puppies!

Bright, shining gemstones...

Chicago

Okay, so I know the blog is named "Sweet Wild Violet", but the following blog is not of Violet, but my trip to Chicago. It was a fabulous trip, but due to some transportation issues and then the weather, we got stuck for two extra nights. It was frustrating at the time, but looking back, it was pretty nice to get to kick back for two extra night!

Our journey begins!

Chicago, we have arrived!

Public transportation, the only way to go.

We were there for a wedding, so we stayed in the hotel close by. We got into town late, but headed down the block for delicious pizza and beer! I like Chicago already!