a few friendly competitions

This January, Mia had a chance to participate in a few competitions.  The first was the National Geographic Geo Bee.  This one is really hard to study for as they could ask about nearly anything.  We encouraged her to study her states and capitals also countries and capitals.  She did not win the bee, but she did have the most poise on stage.  If you look below she's the only one sitting pretty.  

The next event was the spelling bee.  She studied a good amount for this and lasted until the fourth round.  She's sitting pretty on the right.  Again- I was very proud of her poise throughout the competition. 

 

 

 

Here's the competition she did the best in: Fox Trot!  She came in second place at the Jr Cotillion Winter Ball and the water bottle stuffed with goodies was the prize.   She came home glowing, she had such fun at the event. 

Air and Space Museum

It's always fun to spend the day at the Air and Space Museum, so that's what we did to celebrate Gary's birthday.  If you ask at the info desk, they have a scavenger hunt available for children and that added to the fun. 
They had the Cessna open for climbing in so here are a few fun shots of the family taking turns flying a plane.

 James and Jonny had a long conversation using the walkie talkies on board.  I wish I could remember what they said because they are funny boys.

 Gary and Mia smiling big for the camera- thanks! 

Rachel and Simon took a turn too.  This picture cracks me up because of Rachel's hands- she was steering so fast they were a blur.  It's a good thing too.  If she had held still, her hands would be blocking Simon's face.