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!

Mother's Day 2014

Another Mother's Day is in the books.  It was a lovely day, complete with flowers, celeb magazines, and breakfast out!  I thank my children for coming into my life and making the struggle worthwhile.  Later that day Evan had a birthday party to go to.  It seems like we have one every weekend of late, but this one was special for Evan.  It was his "girlfriend's" birthday party.  Her name is Asha and they have been "engaged" since last year in kindergarten.  I can't imagine children of 5 and 6 thinking about marriage, but what do I know.  If he is going to commit to one girl now, at least I approve of this one.  She is super cute and a lovely girl.  Well done, Evan.

A Weekend in the Hunter Valley

The kids had fall break during the Easter holidays, so with a little time off, we packed up the car and headed to the Hunter Valley.  Besides being a gorgeous area north of Sydney, it also happens to be the  location of Jason's current mine.  Instead of tasting all the fabulous wines the area has to offer, we did kid friendly things.  We went to the botanical gardens and played mini golf and had a meal or two here and there.  It was great to get away, and I am sure Jason enjoyed not driving the 3.5 hours back down the coast for one weekend!

Baseball Awards

After the last game of the Gala Day, the teams were presented with their awards.  Every child received a participation award.  As if that wasn't fantastic enough, Evan received the most improved t ball player award for all Under 8's and Under 6's.  I couldn't be prouder.  The marble trophy we get to keep at home for a year to be returned at the completion of next season.  His name is engraved on it.  I guess that is one way of making your mark on Australia!

The Last Baseball Game of the Season

Evan finally finished baseball for the season in March.  Two players couldn't make it to the Gala Day. Even with just five players, the team faired well.  This has been a great introduction to baseball for Evan (and for Avery too).  They are both interested in signing up to play in the Spring!