Cousins in Vegas Part 3 aka Mother's day

Happy Happy Mothers day to all you mothers out there especially all those celebrating their first mothers day.

Mother's day was our final day in Las Vegas. We celebrated by once again visiting the strip and brunching at the Flamigo. Rubie and Claire sported darling matching outfits compliments of Grandma & Grandpa Smith.

Cousins in Vegas Part 2

Claire continues to expand her horizons. While in Vegas Claire visited new casinos adding to her Lake Tahoe Casino experience. She enjoyed the fish at the aquarium in the Silverton and the Bass Pro shop next door. She scowled at the lions at the MGM Grand and gawked at the Flamigos at the Flamingo.

Look at those bathing beauties. Here you can really see some of the differences between Rubie and Claire. Notice Claire's belly and the absence of Rubies...he he he.

Claire and Rubie relaxed at the hotel by swimming in the pool. We all got to enjoy Rubie's first moments mastering the art of sitting up.

I love the floaties.

Go Rubie Go!

Rubie continued to attempt to play with Claire, this time by putting Claire's hand in her mouth. Claire wasn't too sure about that.

Cousins in Las Vegas

Las Vegas has never been a destination I saw myself visiting and yet on Friday, there I was, family in tow. A good friend of Josh's got married this past weekend and the Smith family used that platform as an opportunity for a mini family reunion. We met up with Josh's parents and brother, wife, Jen and their daughter Rubie.

First of all, I was completely overwhelmed. I had no idea what to expect from Vegas but as we landed almost quite literally on the strip, I knew this place was crazy. People, lights (I wasn't even there at night), billboards, smoke, cocktails...wow.

The laughing jackalope? I don't think I get this place. Second, how fun to see these two little cousins interact. Claire and Rubie are not even a day apart so Jen and I enjoy comparing notes on the girls. They have such different personalities. Rubie is outgoing, energetic and animated. Claire is expressive, reserved and cautious. Their first meeting almost said it all. Rubie lunged for Claire legs kicking, arms out and face exuding happiness and excitement. Claire leaned back into the arms of grandma, started her pouty face and looked around for me. This picture just about says it all.

Claire and Aunt Jen in front of the Bellagio.Rubie enjoying the view from her dad's shoulders.

Claire taking a nap on her grandpa after an exhausting day of travel and taking in the sights of the strip.

The girls relaxing on the bed at the hotel.

Claire sharing a snuggle moment with her dad.