Another Busy Week

We still had some samples left on our Sea World food lanyard, so we went back on Friday night. We got some of the things we had tried the previous week and tried a few different items. This time, Anna stayed home, but everyone else went. It was busy, but not as crowded as the previous week. It was also quite a bit hotter, but we knew where to find the shade, so it was still pleasant. We like almost everything we tried. The only ones we would not get again are the pesto scallop and chocolate dipped pretzel. Both were fine, just not as good as the others. We loved the brisket tots (can't remember the real, fancy name), cheddar hushpuppies, caramel ice cream, meatball, cheesecake cone, and a few others.

We stopped by the dolphin nursery.

Saturday was Luke's championship game. Unfortunately, they lost. It was a good, close game. His team jumped out to an early lead, but had some defensive errors that cost them the game. It was 10-9 (although, the other team didn't bat the last inning). Luke was pretty sullen. He let a ball get by him in the outfield and felt personally responsible for the loss. He has a lot of amazing qualities--good sportsmanship is not one of them! Two of his friends came to watch and he wouldn't even talk to them after the game. I was pretty frustrated. Then, they had a great party (no shame in runners-up!) with water balloons and lots of food. He ran around and had a great time. Then, when we got in the car he was sullen again. It was annoying! He did have a really good hit and scored a run, so it wasn't all bad. And, his team came in 2nd out of 9 teams.

It was super sweet of Beya and Mike to come and cheer on grumpy Luke.

Team photo! 

Sunday, we had preview tickets for Florida's newest roller coaster--the Velocicoaster at Islands of Adventure (Universal). Jack and Luke didn't want to go, so we took the girls. It was super crowded and hot, but we were on a mission. The coaster officially opens on June 10th, but they gave out some early spots to passholders. We got lucky and logged in at the right time. Our slot was 3:30-4, the line, which was well-themed, only took about 20 minutes. It was an intense ride! As I get older, I like roller coasters less and less. I like Hagrid's (which is much slower), but Slinky Dog is more my speed. In other words, it was too fast for me. I did enjoy some of the elements, and I may try it again, but I am also okay if I never again ride. Thomas was worried about losing his hat, so he feels like he didn't get to enjoy it. He would agree that it was fast and exciting. The girls both loved it. After our ride, we had a very early dinner (to beat the massive crowds), rode Forbidden Journey, let the girls ride Hulk and then headed home. It was a good adventure.

Waiting, with some of the track behind us. Most of the line was indoors. 

This week, the older kids are testing at school again. They have to go in every day except Wednesday. Kara isn't as grumpy about it now that she knows the routine a bit better. Jack seemed to enjoy it. I am sure it will be a relief when things return to normal. 

Today (Wednesday) Anna and Luke had their first ice skating lesson. It was a trial class and they both loved it, so we signed up for 8 sessions. They get 8 lessons and 8 open skates. For Luke, it has been one thing after another in recent months: soccer, football, baseball, now ice skating. Anna did basketball, which she really liked and now ice skating. Kara has remained steady in ballet/acro. And, Jack has remained steady in refusing to try anything new.

Blurry, because I had to take it through glass. The trial class only had 3 kids (including Anna and Luke), but the real classes had several students.

And, in random photos from the week:

Thomas attended a class on Monday and Tuesday. It was virtual, but he was on camera. So, button-down shirt on top, athletic shorts on bottom. 

And, some more random Florida wildlife. These 2 wild pigs like to hang out on the main road close to our house.