At The Races

We packed up snacks and sun hats and drove across town to Family Day at the horse racing park! We were pleasantly surprised by the lovely, clean park and array of food and beverage options.

A couple of friends including Uncle Jason met us at the park to pass the time together.  We checked out lots of vantage points to watch the races: starting gate, warm up path, winner's circle, grandstand, picnic tables, grassy hills, TV big screens.  Although we set up our picnic mat at a picnic table we spent almost the entire time exploring and people-watching.

Elliott and Rosemary cheered for the running horses and waved at the jockeys. Spectators can stand on a rail, up close to the action or relax in one of the many seating areas.

Drinking beer from a straw = Mommy Trick #356....

This will likely be the last summer Elliott fits into his signature wrap-around sunglasses. He still has plenty of years ahead to wear his beloved Northwestern hat (Go Cats!)
Pony rides were a huge draw for all the kids in attendance. Live pony rides. After waiting in line for about 20 minutes we put our collective engineering skills to the test and estimated it would be another 45 min (at least) until our turn on the ponies. 

Waiting in line for over an hour to ride ponies = Tantrum Avoidance Trick #253....


Gretchen napped on Steve's back in the Beco while waiting in line. Once the kids finally mounted their ponies the kids smiled hugely throughout their entire ride!

We really enjoyed our summer Day At the Races and definitely plan to return next year.