the glass house

On Saturday morning, after our breakfast of oranges, toast, and scrambled eggs with sausage, mushrooms, and cheese, we packed the car with sippy cups, snacks, diapers, an umbrella, the camera, and 2 strollers. Maya was very excited to see the 'glass house' with gardens and butterflies inside. The Frederick Meijer Gardens did not disappoint her high expectations.

When we arrived, it was warm but the air was thick and wet. We hurried through the parking lot and just as we walked in the doors, the rain let loose. Forceful, sideways rain. We weaved through the indoor gardens and sculptures until we arrived at the 'detox' chamber where we had to 'check' our sealed juice boxes before entering the butterflies domain. When we left the butterflies, the rain suddenly cleared... just long enough for a sunny visit to the whimsical outdoor play area and gardens. A giant bird's nest with eggs, a little 'Goldilocks table', a garden maze, bridges and forts. Maya was shocked and delighted to see the 'Little House' log cabin (she was certain that it was Laura, Mary, and Carrie's). She has asked to go back inside that cabin several times in the last few days.











But the butterflies themselves were the biggest hit of the day. She got to bring home a little plastic butterfly, her little 'Mariposa', from the gift shop which she has not slept a night since without.

Sophie slept all the way home, while Maya, on the other hand....