Let the Baseball Begin

Sprout and The Dude started their baseball (Tee Ball) season about two weeks ago.  Avery only initially wanted to play because Evan played last year and she has the "anything you can do, I can do better" mentality (I wonder where she gets that from?!).  But once she started, I think she really enjoyed it.  Every time she runs to a base, she gives me a big smile and a wave.  Sweet little Sprout.  Evan is rapidly improving his skills from last year.  I think this might be his sport (and soccer too, of course).  I am so proud of both of them, as any mother would be.

Uluru - Ayers Rock

Over the last school holidays, we took a long weekend trip to Uluru-Ayers Rock, Northern Territory.  We had a blast riding camels, taking a sunset tour of the rock up close, and a helicopter ride to view the rock from above.  The flies weren't terribly bad this time of the year, just a nuisance.  The sunset tour was interesting and informative and the color change of the rock was magnificent.

Happy 4th of July

This year for the 4th of July, we packed up the family and flew back to Virginia for a little rest and relaxation.  It was a fun two weeks lounging by Smith Mountain Lake, VA.  

A Pony Party

A couple of weekends ago, the kids had another birthday party to go to.  This time it was pony themed.  I didn't realize there would be an actual pony!  Very exciting.  Avery LOVED it.  She got to ride it a couple of times and asked her father if he would get her a pony.  He said no.  Evan on the other hand did not ride the pony.  I think he may have been slightly scared of them, but would never admit it, of course.

Soccer!

Now that baseball is over, Evan needed a new sport to keep him (and me) busy.  We decided he would try soccer.  It turns out he really likes it.  I think once they start picking positions the would be some sort of defender but all in due time.  Here are some pictures from something like the 4th soccer game.  It was the first sunny soccer game since the start, which of course makes for better pictures!

Let the SERFies begin

So at the kids' school, they give out awards called SERFies.  SERFie stands for Safety, Effort, Respect and Friendship.  When the children are found to be demonstrating these values the are rewarded.  Once they get so many rewards they get a Bronze SERFie.  More rewards, Silver SERFie. More rewards, Gold SERFie Certificate.  With the levels they could receive more recess time or no homework for the week, or at the highest level, lunch with the principal.  Evan received his Bronze Award first, almost a month ago and Avery hers this week.  They are presented with their certificates in front of the entire school at the weekly assembly.  It is really cool and the kids enjoy it and they are learning key values to becoming a good human being.  Well done Evan and Avery.  I am very proud of you!