Kazapalooza 2009

This year we spent June 4th through the 8th in Nashville, TN to celebrate Kazapalooza 2009. Muriel, Gretchen, Michelle and Kristen did a wonderful job hosting the event and we all had a blast being able to see our friends again! Some we have not seen since we were overseas in Kaz! This year there were over 60 families that came to the event!


We came into Nashville a day early and stayed at the beautiful Opryland Hotel! We took Taylor to the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere Friday morning and met up with Sarah, Andy and their kids Zach and Addie. We had a blast and Taylor loved seeing the Meerkats and Elephants. That evening we met with all the families at the hotel and got to see old friends and make new ones.




Saturday was the pool party where we spent hours, and then we headed to Opry Mills for the afternoon. Taylor was able to pet the stingrays, however she thought they a little scary. She did enjoy seeing them though! Afterward we headed to Dave and Buster's for the big celebration. There was a raffle for the charity Two Hearts for Hope, dinner and dancing. Taylor loved the dancing and had a blast.






Sunday we did breakfast with our gang from Astana, Annette and Marwan and their daughter Kate, and Peter and Maren with their son Rinat. It was wonderful to be able to spend that much time with them, just like old times! We said our goodbyes to the families leaving that day and we headed out for a tour of downtown Nashville. Taylor was able to ride her first bus and could not get enough of it! Taylor and Kianna also had their first bar experience while on the tour! Taylor wanted a shot of tequila but they refused her due to her size. Sunday night we went to dinner with the remaining families and we were able to catch up with our good friends Steve, KJ and Tougy.






Every night we spent the evening at the Delta Island where there were dancers and music. Taylor was able to eat ice cream, dance, be with friends and stay up REALLY late. I don't think she was in bed before 11pm EST. Taylor and Tougy tried to break into the toy store on the final night but they were unsuccessful.




Overall this was a wonderful trip and we all had the time of our lives. Thank you so much to Muriel, Gretchen, Michelle and Kristen and we cannot wait to see you all next year in Milwaukee!