Last year the kids had so much fun with the party-favors we got at the hotel, that Jeff went out on a hunt to get them some for this year as well. But, there was a small trick. Jeff went out during Ryans nap, came back in, handed Brooke two noisemakers ... and told her that she couldnt use them until he woke up. It was probably the most crushing moment in her life to date. You could see her internal struggle as she anxiously held the horn in her hands. Finally, Jeff suggested they go outside (in the freezing cold) to blow the horn - once. Her spirits were lifted and all was right once again.
When Ryan woke from nap she immediately blew the horn ... and he cocked his head and smiled bigger than I've ever seen. Saying the next two hours were noisy would be a bit of an understatement.
We then went out to dinner and found our table adorned with sparkly necklaces in addition to more party hats. We had a fantastic dinner, although all those romantic dates surrounding us likely didnt appreciate the two little kids repeatedly screaming "Happy New Year!" as much as we did. We then came back home, spent a bit of time with the cousins, and retired for the evening.
