Play, Play, Play!

In late October we travelled to Regina, Saskatchewan to visit Julian's family. The theme of the trip, for Zoe and Grandma at least, was "Play, Play, Play!" Plans for play were executed and carried out as often as Zoe had any hint of influence on the day's agenda. In between "play, play, play" sessions, we enjoyed various outings and excursions.

One such outing was to a playground near the science centre. When we (the adults) had had enough play, we went for a small hike along the lake. Zoe quickly became the leader, issuing instructions to follow her and hold hands. A play, play, play session - "Do what I do, Grandma!"

Zoe amusing herself with the napkin ring at breakfast.

Grandma provided a Chinese fan and a beautiful tiara for this play, play, play session with a princess theme.

If there is anything she loves more than playing, it is having books read to her. By the dozen!

While in town, we enjoyed a lunch with two of Julian's aunts, Susie and Carol, and one of his cousins, Shelly.

Zoe found a special friend in Shelly!

One afternoon we drove to Moose Jaw to see the Snow Birds, the Canadian military's aerobatic team, perform their final show of their 40th season of flying. Though air shows are nothing new for most of the Yeomans family, it was a first for Sara and Zoe who both found it truly thrilling! We stood with the Air Force families and the Snow Bird alumni right on the edge of the runway for a bird's eye view of the planes, pilots and crew.

Grandpa John's career in the Royal Air Force (UK) made him the best one to give Zoe an orientation of her surroundings.

Whenever there are pictures being taken, Zoe always asks to take one as well. We sometimes oblige and are often pleasantly surprised at how well she does!! This photo of Grandma Elaine and Grandpa John is taken by Zoe.

Let the show begin! The pilots march to their respective planes.

The engines are started. (It's at this point you begin to wonder if you are maybe a little bit too close to the action!)

And they're off! Up and down, back and forth, performing spectacular aeronautical acrobatics.

Zoe loved it all until the final swooping flyover created a loud boom. Zoe covered her ears and cried "let's get out of here!"

In keeping with the military theme, we attended a memorial service for the nine residents of SK, including a journalist, who lost their lives in the war in Afghanistan. As an active member of the Royal United Services Institute, John served on the Saskatchewan War Memorial Committee and was instrumental in the recent creation of a memorial honouring SK residents who died in WW II and the Korean War. During our visit, a plaque was unveiled to include lives lost in Afghanistan. Representing the Canadian Forces and speaking at the service was Chief of Defence General Natynczyk, Canada's top soldier.

Prior to the memorial service, Zoe saluted Wing Commander Yeomans, decorated WW II veteran and former POW, a.k.a. Grandpa John.

At the service.

Following the ceremony it was time for play, play, play in a local park.

It has become tradition for Uncle Mark to make a "Humpty Dumpty" balloon for Zoe when we visit. Below is this year's creation.

No visit to Regina is complete without a drive out to visit Mark's horses. Zoe talked about the horses long before our trip and looked forward to the visit. However, up close her enthusiasm waned in direct proportion to the size and proximity of the horse.

Then we encountered a critter more to her liking. (She probably would not have kissed it if it were still alive.)

Bedtime meant hugs and kisses for everyone!

We had a wonderful time in Regina! Thanks to Grandma Elaine, Grandpa John, and Uncle Mark for everything. (Thanks also to Io for the yummy cookies!)