Horsing around, five little monkeys and there's a first time for everything...

Life has been great on the Gines funny farm and crazier than ever. The last two weeks have seemed to kick us into an even higher gear with school coming to a close with awards and celebrations and gymnastics competitions building us up to State.

It hasn't all been "business" though. We have definitely been horsing around, as well. Our fun-loving family got together to celebrate the Kentucky Derby. And we all went full out -- including hats, dresses, food, drinks and horses. Yes, horses. Inspired by the Melbourne Cup party I attended in Indonesia (miss you Aussie ladies), we decorated horses and participated in a horse race. Two winners from each race faced off in the championship race and the winner was Mason! It was a blast -- that and Mike wore a dress in festive spirit -- too fun!!      

This last week I also had a chance to chaperon Mason's class to the Denver Zoo. Managing five little monkeys in a crowded zoo with a thousand other schools was a little overwhelming at times but those little kiddos were great and seeing and hearing their excitement over the animals made it worth every second!! It was special too, as I was standing looking at the kangaroos, I realized how many animals I have been able to hold and see in real life throughout Asia and Australia and how blessed we are to have had that experience.

Hannah's gymnastics competitions continue on and she continues to humbly grow, develop skills and learn. This last weekend was her home gym meet and she was most excited for this one as she stated "I know the gym and the equipment". That proved to be true and she nailed three of her four events, getting 1st place on those three events and achieving 3rd place overall. She was ecstatic! We are so proud of her but not just for the placements but for her determination and passion.

Speaking of firsts. It has been a long time since we have gone camping and Mason has never slept in a tent (I know, I know, poor kiddo). So while Hannah was at a slumber party Mike dusted off his old hunting tent and made camp in our backyard! All three of us and Kiesel (our lab) snuggled in for the night. I was an adjustment but Mason beamed all weekend long and he can't wait to go real camping!!!

We are sooooo looking forward to summer -- BBQs, boating, camping, hiking and swimming. And I am really looking forward to some warm, nice weather as it continues to rain and be dreary! Soon enough it will happen!!