My kind of schooling and exploring!

I haven't been to the Witte Museum in years.  I was so thankful and excited when my friend mentioned that we were welcome to join them on their fieldtrip this past Tuesday.  It was not only a great way to break up the school week and see our friends, but also qualified us for the group rate!  I am looking forward to more fieldtrips with JAMM.  :)
First stop, Amazon Voyage: Vicious Fishes and Other Riches! 

And we're off!  Let the voyage begin!

"Bubble", "fishbowl mentality"... is not something I usually promote. ;)

The kids enjoyed all the hands-on activities.  What began as a treasure hunt for lost items in the murky waters of the amazon river, slowly turned into an all out splash fight with the boy across from her.   

The Beautiful Bug exhibit was AMAZING! 

We studied the gorgeous butterflies and saw the most beautiful, snow white, silk chrysalis...

Brings 2 Cor. 5:17 to mind.  Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

The green butterflies were Mya's favorite. 

I almost didn't bring this little guy, because I wasn't sure if he would enjoy it.  I am so glad I did.  He has been talking about the trip for the last couple of days.  

If you scroll up, you'll notice Audrey is sporting a snazzy new outfit in this picture.  :)  We were all gathered in the courtyard for lunch, when I heard a SPLASH and cry for help.  She later told me she was trying to reach for her stick that had fallen in the little pond and lost her balance.  Thankfully, the pond was not very deep and she had the sense to make her way to the slimy, algae covered edge.  Praise God we heard her cry and were nearby!  I think the other moms in our group could tell I was trying to decide how to handle the situation as I attempted to dry my dripping wet, sobbing, emotional little girl.  Do I leave and buy new clothes?  Should we just go home?  So much more to see...  Before I knew it, the sweet ladies came to my aid and we had Audrey dried off and ready for part II of the Witte.  

Trying to hang with the big boys.

Mya is more like Nate when it comes to her desire for adventure, speed, and excitement.  I am always surprised at some of the things she wants to do and try.  Things I wouldn't have even considered at her age.  I would have taken one look at this and run in the opposite direction when I was six.  She was slightly under the minimum height requirement for this ride and I warned her, "I don't think you'll be able to reach the pedals.  Are you sure you want to try this?"  I have to admit I was little nervous.  Being the compliant first born she is, she quickly responded, "Whatever you think mama.  If you want me to I will, but if you don't I won't. But I really want to try."  She waited patiently in line and gave it her best shot as she attempted to reach the pedals and power the bike forward with her skinny little legs.  I was so proud of her!     

Mums the word.  :)  Slaeter was especially enthralled with the "mommies".