MALL OF AMERICA

Today I took all three kids out for a day of special time with Mommy. I had received an email about an event being put on by TIUFTT (Tee it Up for The Troops) and MOA to suport CHOMP (Children Heroes of Military Parents), Military Appreciation Day!

Since I had learned about it so late in the game I was not sure we would even be able to participate, especially since even the website did not even mention it. After several emails with a Board Member of TIUFTT, I was told to just come on out and we would be taken care of.

Armed with my "Surviving my 2nd Deployment" t-shirt and the kids in their "Wolfpack" tees, we got in the car and headed to the MOA, registration was at 8:30 and we were given unlimited ride passes to Nickelodeon Universe, free passes to a Movie and even some coupons for free popcorn. You could also get passes to the Mini Golf course that is at MOA, I chose not to since the kids are little and I thought it would take forever.

The park did not open until 10:30, so we headed out and walked around, grabbed some coffee at Caribou (Reindeer Drinks for the kids) and then went to the Theatre to get our tickets for the movie. We were able to get in two rides at the park prior to Ice Age 3D starting.

While we watched Ice Age with our 3D glasses on and eating our lunch that I had packed at home, the kids eyes glazed over as they watched in awe of the movie. Several giggles came from the kids, which just makes it that much better. By the end of the movie, they were ready to head back to the park for more rides.

Sarah rode on her first roller coaster and advised me that we are supposed to put our hands in the air and that it is okay to scream. She giggled the entire time, while her brother Colby looked like he was going to lose his lunch. Boy, it looks like he is taking after his daddy in the motion sickness arena.

Several rides, slowing pace and stomach relocation, it was time to head out. On our way out of the park, we grabbed a couple of cookies to end the day.

It was nice to be recognized as a family member and to have an event that would allow the kids to get out and have a good time. I met several women who stated they didn't know how I did it, they were dealing with their first deployment and having so many frustrations. to be surrounded by people who are going through what you are and not even having to say a word, just a nod as you walked by or a smile at the kids as I walked by with them in tow was enough. Probably being naive and the looks were of pity, but nonetheless, I will take it!

The kids had a wonderful time, Sarah is telling everyone about her roller coaster ride and the boys are talking about the funniest part of the movie, so I have to say it was a success. I would also just have to say that it will probably be a few months until I head to a crowded area with three children in tow!

Thank you TIUFTT and Mall of America!