Our Little Man: The Smoky Mountains...

Last week, Nico and I headed East to the Smoky Mountains with Gabby, Adam, Sarah, Emma and Eli. While we were there we visited a deer farm/petting zoo. This was so fun!!! I don't know who had a better time: the kids or me and Sarah!!! We had all intentions of visiting Dollywood and checking out their light displays. Dad even got us some tickets. BUT, the park was closed all three days that we were there. Bummer...maybe next year.

"Wow, Mommy, wow!!!", was all Nico could say about this huge camel. I didn't know camels were so BIG! I actually got to hand feed him. He was so gentle eating out of my hand. He has huge teeth, but just used his furry lips to get the food out of my hand...definitely an experience!!!

Taking in the animals.

Yes, we were this close to a zebra!!! This was also very cool. This guy had a bit of an attitude, though. He kept kicking at and chasing an emu that was trying to get some food.

Check out Romeo's chompers!

Those antlers were HUGE!!!

Nico feeding the reindeer.

The Deer Farm welcoming committee. This peacock just sat at the entrance and greeted guests. We went around...his beak looked really sharp.

Wednesday we headed out to Laurel Falls. Of course it was the coldest day of our trip, but that made it a little more fun. I mean, we were in the mountains in December! It was 1.3 miles to the falls. The trail was paved so we were able to push the kids in their vehicle of choice. Nico wasn't as miserable as he seems in the picture above. Can anyone say "A Christmas Story"???

Babbo, Nico and Mommy about half way up.

We made it! Nico pointing at the waterfall.

Well worth the hike!

Babbo and Nico at Laurel Falls.

After naps we went for a stroll in downtown Gatlinburg. There was a cute little spot off the main drag that was decorated really cute. They had a sleigh set up as a picture opp, but I wasn't going to tease Nico by letting him get out of his car for that.

Dad also got us a family pass to The Aquarium. We all got in for free!!! Here are Nico and Emma in their matching cars just inside The Aquarium. It took us about 10 minutes to get down to our regular clothes. It was COLD outside and we were layered!