FAB weekend

We have already had a dreamy weekend, and it's not even Sunday (which means fun church times for all and usually family naps!)!

How is this not precious?? This answers why he always has funny sleep lines on his face.

Josh had the idea of having a "Master's Soiree" for the guys who did the Master's Program with him this year. We provided a delicious brisket which josh made in the crockpot, as well as corn casserole and party potatoes (Rachel Green's recipe which is an instant hit anywhere we go). Sam and his wife, Sarah, brought a delicious seafood and veggie dish pictured below.

Tom Scott, aptly named as he is in fact a Scot (and a retired civil engineer) brought this fascinating and exciting assortment of beverages- all different kinds of juice or ginger beer.

The illustrious group. From left to right: Tom (a Scot), Troy, Ben, Josh (all Americans), Sam (and his wife Sarah who are from Hong Kong). Interestingly we were the only ones with kids, and our kids loved all the attention.

Doors Open Day

Today was a day that Aberdeen opened its doors to the public. Places like the Fire Brigade, the Police Station, museums, and judicial courts welcomed visitors. We opted for the Fire Brigade, which was awesome.

Rebekah got to help operate the fire hose.

She also enjoyed putting out fires in this play house.

She even got to get in the fire truck with Daddy!

This was crazy...we watched as this small house fire burst into flames due to water being poured on it...

Rebekah was the only child NOT enchanted by this- she semi-shrieked, seemingly shocked that we would put her in such close proximity to danger. Bless her heart, we were at the fire brigade!

Josh lifted her to slide down the pole, too!

This was the old Fire Brigade.

We then went to the Performing Arts theatre- not sure what it's actually called...

But Rebes got to get on stage, which was a big hit!

We tried the Police Station, but the tour was booked. So, we simply said, "Look! Police! say hello to the police officers..." Kind of anti-climactic.

I've always liked this corner- it is where King Street turns into Union Street (I think anyway!) It is on a bend and I just like it.

Then, we got to go inside St. Andrew's Episcopal Church. I was so impressed by how well-staffed the church was and how strategic they were. They had very friendly greeters and snacks and even an art table set up for toddlers. That is a winning combination for our family.

We loved all the states represented on the ceiling.

Iowa had its own place...

And, sadly, Texas just had its star...?

Rebekah was duly entertained and very sad to leave (they ushered us out due to a wedding) this art table.

We came home, all napped, an then had friends over for an impromptu BBQ. Everyone just brought what they had and each family did their own meat.

Kate, happy Callum, and Rachel O.

Josh, Brannan, and Mark

You really have to keep a keen eye on Luke...

I'll zoom in for you, in case you missed it.

After playing in the sand and dousing themselves with everything imaginable, it was communal bath time. They might as well all be related!

The girls modeling their jammies.