B-Days, Baptism, Science & Saran Wrap...?

In an attempt to play catch-up, here are some photos that highlight some of the recent happenings around here.

Mom left town for two days - just two days!
Look what happened...

Corey is having an "interesting" year in school this year. Unfortunately, 4th grade is NOT what it used to be at the kids' school (don't even get me started!). I was finally able to volunteer for something in his new class and wouldn't you know it - it was a party. Not really an educational experience, but at least I got in the door, right? After all we've been through we're hoping to choose his teacher next year and not let the lottery decide. Good thing he's our genius (his words, not mine).

Showing mom around the classroom...finally!

Jared and his "other brother of another mother" (aka his best friend) did the science fair together this year. They wanted to experiment with dry ice...and boy did they ever! Not sure what they learned, really, but they sure had fun with it. I know two dads who learned how NOT to store dry ice.

This would be what a "real" tea is like around here. Actual dishes are used from various tea party sets and a guest is invited. Of course, if that guest leaves early or without permission to take a nap, for example, look at his "punishment." Nice hair bow, dad!

Here would be MJ on her field trip (of course her big sister wanted to come!). She was chosen to be a "helper" when the instructors were teaching kids about creatures that live in the ocean. See how excited she is? Wait...I think it's fear...of a blue stuffed animal. HA! And, of course, Ms. Chels just fell in love with the sting rays. She couldn't get MJ to touch one, though. Why would she if she couldn't hold a stuffed creature?

Look who is 5!
She's not excited, now, is she?

And look who is now 7!
She has the same reaction to growing up as her little sister.

And her would be our big-little-man as he celebrates being a Tweenager. Here he is trying to prove that he is almost as tall as his mother...ALMOST. He wanted a Bronco's cake, and this is what we came up with. He chose the "opposing team". Very creative, eh?

Just before Chels's b-day she was baptized. We are very proud of her for making this decision. We still think that she will be a missionary or preacher someday. This girl has something amazingly beautiful inside her heart.

Finally, here would be two of my favorite "china dolls." They're sure growing up!