Vala's Pumpkin Patch

After living in Omaha for nearly 7 years now, we figured it was time we took our family to the popular pumpkin patch attraction here called Vala's.  We'd heard so much about it, but knew that it was not an accessible place that Annie could enjoy.  Fortunately, we have a great respite provider right now who was willing to spend the day with Annie at home while we took Molly and Lexie to Vala's. And Make-a-Wish was even kind enough to provide us with discount tickets!

The corn maze this year at Vala's--it wasn't very big, but perfect to do with the kids in just 15 minutes.

In the corn maze

We took a hayride out to the pumpkin fields where guests can pick their own pumpkins to purchase.  The pumpkins extend over several of the rolling hills behind us.  (I-80 is right above Molly's head.) It was impressive to see so many pumpkins!

The girls loved the obstacle course! They had fun pretending they were on American Ninja Warrior!

We spent a lot of time riding the various pedal carts too.  We rode this 4 person cart as a family, but then Lexie wanted to help pedal it just with me.  I discovered a little too late that her feet couldn't really fully reach the pedals, so it made for a great workout to get around the trail.

Justin and Molly really liked these smaller pedal cars.

Vala's had a lot of wood cutouts for you to take pictures of with your kids sticking their faces through the face holes.  I'm not a big fan of them, but this picture opportunity was so creative, we just couldn't resist. :)

Memphis Lake Campout

 We went on our annual Memphis Lake State Park campout with friends.  It was gorgeous weather, except for the rather freezing temperatures overnight.  But we had a great time kayaking and hanging out around the campfire making s'mores.

Eye Surgery... Again!

Lexie had eye surgery to remove two chalazions--one on the upper and lower lids of her right eye.  Last year she had two other surgeries for chalazions on her left eye.  She did really great, and although she loves getting the stuffed animals in the recovery room, we hope that this is her last eye surgery!

Two chalazions on Lexie's right eye