Happy New Year! We enjoyed a nice family breakfast at chez Bob, and Jen and the family were back over first thing to enjoy the meal with us. Uncle Bob enjoyed having lots of little ones in his midst, and the twins made themselves comfortable in his lap again, adorning pjs and slippers. As a group we decided to head to the Vancouver Aquarium. Bob stayed behind and the two families packed up and hit the road over to Stanley Park. The kids loved looking at all the sea life. I enjoyed the difference in species that were highlighted in such a place. The focus was of course on Pacific Northwest sea life, which can be vastly different than what we experience on the East Coast. I marveled at the sea horses, Gabriel loved the massive fish, and Zoe just enjoyed holding Liam up to see whatever was there to show. I think she was more excited about playing Mommy than any sea creature could provide.
The day went by so quickly and before we knew it, it was time to say goodbye to the other Lavoie family as they needed to get back home to Vancouver Island. The twins were elated when Jennifer and Andrew were gracious enough to let them pick a souvenir from the gift shop as a fun take home memory of the experience. Hugs were exchanged by little people as well as us big people and it was time to say goodbye. Our family headed back to Bob's and we were ready for some dinner. We decided to head out on foot so the twins could really experience the city at night - it's the largest city they have ever been in, and it was so exciting for them. Uncle Bob took them to a Chinese supermarket, which even had me marveling at the extensive fresh seafood collection including giant clams and a fresh fish tank. Then it was off to The Old Spaghetti Factory for supper. What a small world! It is the exact same restaurant as the one in Downtown Louisville, only this was the original! The twins enjoyed holding Uncle Bob's hand as we strolled down the Vancouver streets, and I was amazed at how well they ate dinner - great choice Uncle Bob! The dinner was incredible. With stuffed bellies, we headed back home and it was already time to start packing up for tomorrow's journey back home. Ken and his dad once again enjoyed a nice evening of conversation. Ken is so impressed with his father's knowledge of business and people. He is very proud of what his dad has accomplished and he was so glad to get to spend this time with him. Both of us wish we had more time to glean from him and I, too, was very happy to share this experience. I honestly don't think the visit could have gone any better and I am so thankful we had the opportunity.
The next morning had us up to finish packing and head over to the Sky Train to hitch a ride back to the airport. But before we did that, Bob and Ken headed out to find Vancouver souvenirs for the twinkies. It was so kind and thoughtful of Bob to want to do that for them. Zoe and Gabriel loved their matching Canada hoodies and Vancouver t shirts. They both wore them on their first day back at school in Kentucky. It meant so much. We said our goodbyes and thanked Bob for a wonderful Vancouver experience. The twins exchanged hugs and kisses with him, and let him know that they loved him. Ken and I said our goodbyes and I love yous as well and it was time to go. We were off to the airport for a long afternoon and evening of travel.
We arrived back in Lexington very late, with every one safe at home, and truly exhausted. I am so thankful to God for our amazing Canadian Christmas. Thank you for sharing our experience. I will be posting several pictures of the last few days for everyone to enjoy. May your 2011 be blessed abundantly with health, happiness, and the kind of wealth that cannot be captured with a dollar sign.
With Love,
The Lavoies
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