Trip to the Arctic Tundra

In January, we were crazy enough to leave 70 degree weather and head out to Chicago ( I think we actually experienced negative 20!). Uncle Nestor was having a surprise party and there was no way we could miss it. My goodness it was cold!

We took Scrumpy to the Shedd Aquarium that had a Philippine Reef display. He loved it! It was almost as if he understood that these were "his people".

Hanging out with a turtle from the Islands


We also took this opportunity to visit his newest cousin, Makai. We played with cousin Blake and had breakfast as the snow poured and poured. If we weren't concerned we wouldn't make it back home in time for the party 6 hours later, we would have gone sledding, but we were seriously worried!


Scrumpy and Blake

I think if we turn this knob here, we can escape

Can you hear me now?

Vince, Makai, Mama, Scrumpy, Brian, and Blake

Unfortunately, the excitement of the surprise party was all so stressful, and we didn't take any good photos. Rest assured, Scrumpy had a good time. As soon as he scanned the room and realized that the majority of the guests were Filipino, he was off and running. He never sat still. And much to my chagrin! He actually enjoys line dancing. He was out there with all the aunties trying to do the moves. It was pretty insane. We left around 11:30 and I think he was actually upset we took him home. Of course, he immediately crashed when he got in his car seat.

The next day, we could not resist taking photos of him out in the snow. Do not comment on the pink snow suit. We borrowed it from one of his cousins as we weren't going to buy a suit for 10 minutes of fun.

Auntie Mila and Scrumpy trying to walk

I don't think he liked being bundled up

Playing with Auntie Em and Auntie Lizoe

I don't know why they are smiling, its cold!

We had a great time, but really enjoyed coming home and taking off our winter jackets! Scrumpy is really becoming a seasoned traveler!