the best things in life are free

I did a little research online and found out that every first friday of the month is free at the Phoenix Children's Museum (Thanks Target!). So we picked Jared up from work, braved the heat and the crowds, and ventured downtown!

It was certainly an adventure. It was 110 that day and we had to wait outside for about 35 mins before getting let in. I've never appreciated the shade as much I have living here! In Utah, shade was more or less just about getting the sun out of your eyes - but the temperature didn't really change that much. HERE it's a stark contrast if you can step into a shady spot. All the sudden that intense heat baking down on you is gone!  It was funny to see everyone huddled together in the shadow line from a tree, and even people sitting in shadows from the road signs.

We've learned the heat isn't quite as bad as we feared. The mornings and evenings aren't bad at all - its worst from about noon to 7pm. It's definitely uncomfortable when it's THAT hot, but even Jared has agreed it's more manageable than being in the cold. It's uncomfortable but not painful the way freezing temps are. Different ends of the spectrum! And we've lived in both extremes - pretty funny!

When we finally made it in, it was luckily not too crowded since they were monitoring how many people were let in at one time. Emmett immediately saw the tricycle car wash station and he was off!

(These two were taken with my ancient phone, so no judgment!)

He found a couple friends - one to drive and one to ride in the caboose with - and was in heaven!

Next we played at the mail station

and in the tree fort

This air tunnel shot little koosh-type balls through and then out. It was one of Emmett's favorite things.

He got to meet the Utility guys - Electricity and Water (we sure love our water!)

Then he played some more, cooked some "Mac and Cheese" in the kitchen, and put in a little time at the ice cream stand. Gotta make a living!

Lastly came the room we spent majority of our time in: the car room.

Even I have to admit this room was pretty sweet. I understand why Emmett was so enamored. The top left picture is a tower you could climb to race cars down a looping track. Driving the motorcycle and filling up the gas were also favorite past times. 

I love the anticipation on his face as he sends his racecar out out of the gate!

All in all the museum was a success. And for free?! Even better! I'm sure we will return soon :)