Visiting "The Wilds" 6.17.10

My friend and I, along with our kids, decided to venture East to Cumberland, Ohio to visit "The Wilds". "The Wilds" is one of the largest conservation centers in the world. You can choose an open safari ride or safari transport pass (our option since our zoo pass made the fee 1/2 price) and view rare and endangered animals from around the world roaming in a large, open-range habitat. The site boasts close to 10,000 acres of which 2500 is enclosed for the animals. The boys after lunch (always need to start with food when you have growing kids!) before boarding the transport pass.

The scenery at "The Wilds" is breath taking--being close to Columbus, we rarely get to enjoy the beauty Ohio has to offer.

The kids--again, well fed and ready to begin our safari adventure.

Two large fat storing humps are characteristic of the Bactrian Camel. There are less than 1,000 Bactrian Camel left causing them to be one of the most severely threatened large mammal species. Scientists from "The Wilds" have been surveying the remaining wild Bactrian Camels in Mongolia.

Luke and Noah thoroughly enjoyed feeding the enormous catfish during one of our stops.

Taking another rest after viewing the Cheetah, African Wild Dogs and Dhole.

The Dhole is an endangered species of Asian wild dogs that has declined due to conflicts with humans and infectious diseases.

The Greater One-Horned Asian Rhino and Southern White Rhinos among Bactrain Camel

The Columbus Zoo lacks giraffes and they're one of my favorite animals--so happy to be able to spend time with these tall giants.

The boys and I had a wonderful time visiting "The Wilds". We learned so much information and truly appreciate what "The Wilds" is doing to help these endangered animals.

Let The Fun Begin

Trey's parents, after many years of service to various Lima establishments, decided to retire this year. Larry retired at the end of April and Dee just a few weeks ago when school finished. Trey and I tossed around the idea of a party for them, but when Cheryl phoned suggesting we throw a surprise party--we were 100% on board. Cheryl & Arlene (Dee's sisters) as well as Trey and I worked together for a few weeks to organize and prepare for the event. We e-mailed invites, booked a room at the bowling alley where Dee & Larry have played on leagues for many years, and worked on decorations. It was a lot of fun corresponding with everyone and I'm touched by the number of people (close to 60) that attended the event. We weren't sure whether or not we'd surprise Trey's parents, but by the picture below--it was definitely a successful surprise on Sunday, June 13, 2010!

Of course, the surprise party wasn't the only surprise. Trey's parents had NO idea that Danny and Cheryl were also attending the retirement party. As soon as Trey's parents entered the room, Danny phoned Larry and asked what he was doing.

Larry was so busy describing the scene to Danny, that he didn't realize Danny was standing next to him--what a wonderful surprise!

Meanwhile, Cheryl was dishing out a surprise of her own to Dee. I'd say she was successful in surprising her sister :)!!

Dee, with her sisters, Cheryl and Arlene.

Cheryl asked Noah to read a silly story that she found. When asked the night before, Noah eagerly agreed and even practiced a few times. Both of Trey's parents had watery eyes as Noah read his story. Noah, we're really proud of you--great job!

The theme of the party, "things that don't work anymore". The tables were decorated with the places where Dee and Larry worked--Lima Tank Plant, school, Lima News... Arlene created the poster behind the cake. The picture on the cake is of Trey's parents and Sheah in front of their new travel trailer.

It's not often that Trey and I have our picture taken--thanks Alexander. And, I love the picture of Trey's parents with Trey and Chris--again, not many opportunities for a family picture.

Dee and Larry enjoying their many retirement cards and gifts. And finally, a picture with the grandkids. Dee & Larry, we wish you the very best as you begin a new chapter--may the best be yet to come! Love you!

"Eat My Bubbles"

Noah decided that this summer he was going to become a WJC Poolcat. He's been practicing since June 1st (before school ended) and I'm amazed at how quickly his strokes have improved. He attended his first meet on Saturday, June 12, 2010 swimming two individual events (25m back and 25m free) as well as two relays (100 IM and 100 Free Relay). COSA meets occur on Saturday mornings and are for the swimmers who have not competed previously and are new to swim team. At the start of the season, the coaches indicated that Noah would most likely only swim the Saturday meets. So, when Noah was invited to swim Wednesday evening (June 16th) at the GCSL meet, we were stunned! He was so excited to be invited and better yet, the meet was at home!

Swimming freestyle and then taking a break until his next event.

To help keep the meets running smoothly and to prevent a lot of yelling, swimmers are encouraged to write their names on their backs. Some take it to the next level and add phrases such as, "Eat My Bubbles". One family has a talented artists in the house--they have poolcats on their arms.

Getting ready to begin his leg of the relay. It's important to wait for your teammate to touch the wall before you begin, so you're not DQ'd.

Swim Noah Swim!

Ready, Set---DIVE!

Thumbs up, pinkies down--backstroke talk

Great job swimming Noah!







A proud and very happy Noah received his first swim ribbons on Monday, June 15, 2010--2nd and 3rd place for his relay teams!

Jacquemin Farms for Strawberries

Strawberries, such a beautiful fruit-love the bright red contrasting against the green bushes. But, oh the taste--eewwww! As a child, I remember my mother fixing strawberries for my sister and I regularly throughout the summer; just berries with a sprinkle of sugar on top--yummy. But, I'm not sure what happened between childhood and adulthood. Each summer I taste one strawberry, and each summer I spit it back out! YUCK! So, my friends found it quite strange that I would accept a strawberry picking invitation, but you know what, picking strawberries is a lot of fun--it's the eating them that isn't all that great :)!

Noah and Eli--best pals

Claire showing Alexander all the strawberries she found while Graham looks on.

Rather reluctantly, the kids pause for a quick group picture.

Enjoying a cold lemon or strawberry icee after an afternoon of strawberry picking at Jacquemin Farms.

School's Out--It's Officially Summer!

YAY--it's summer! I have to admit in January/February when all the snow was endlessly falling and we were constantly shoveling, I thought summer would NEVER arrive. Yet, it's here! The boys have had an incredible year and we're proud of their many accomplishments in 8th grade and 4th grade. Congratulations boys!!

Alexander--June 8, 2010--final day of 8th grade. Noah, pictured below, with some of his neighborhood bus stop friends.

Noah on the playground after enjoying the 4th grade picnic.

After the final school day ended, my friend and I decided that we should celebrate with milkshakes from Steak N Shake. MMMM...good!