On Saturday Milo and Daddy had a boys day because Mama went on a “girly day” to Hanmer springs. Westpac, our bank, hosted a Christmas picnic for newcomers with lots of kids’ activities, so after fishing in the morning, Jeremiah took Milo to indulge in the free food. The face painter did a great job making Milo into a puppy, and he stood stock still and silent while he devoured the chocolate pop….and no, the spots didn’t come out of the shirt.

A pony ride is a serious matter–or so Milo seemed to think. He didn’t make a peep or crack a smile the whole time. Maybe behind those snazzy red sunglasses he was a member of the Pony Express, delivering an important message. Or maybe he was an in American colonial times, quiet lest the indians hear him. Or maybe he was just thinking how big that pony was, and focusing on his balance. Unfortunately, we can only guess.

The remnants of the puppy face were still showing at 9 pm, when daddy let him choose his outfit and play with playdough until an ungodly (for a toddler) hour. They had a good day.

Meanwhile, Mama had a day out at Hanmer Springs with the ladies. Naturally heated mineral water is filtered and temperature-adjusted and pumped into an elaborate pool system, replete with man-made stream and fiberglass-coated rocks!

My friend Jennifer enjoys her champagne in pool-side style at the Hanmer Springs Cafe, boasting gourmet burgers and coffee.

We had fun! My first thought upon seeing the pools was how much Milo would have liked them, but it was actually really nice to change zero diapers and enjoy grown-up conversation all day. It was a fun day out–thanks Daddy!