Five on Friday

1. Our buddy, Amalia turned three today. I remember holding her tiny newborn self at the Wilsons' wedding. We hadn't told many people then that we were expecting Jack, but little did we know what a great friendship those two would share, 500 miles apart. Mali is Jack's constant at prayer time every night, and he often "calls" her during the day to talk about parties or Abigail or bulldozers, or whatever else he has on his mind. Happy birthday, Mali!

2. We got back from our whirlwind tour of the Midwest (close to 4 am) on Thursday morning. I have pictures in multiple places now, but I will update our albums soon-- when I'm not so tired.

3. A highlight from our trip was visiting Noah's Ark, the world's largest water park, in the Wisconsin Dells. Jack keeps talking about all the water. Mike and I actually ventured two of the big slide rides with the kids. The first- pitch. black. Perhaps a mistake, but the kids were fine afterwards, if a bit shaken.

4. Ever heard of a Juan canary melon? We had our first taste of it at Mike's parents-- kind of a mix between a pear and a honeydew and bright yellow on the outside. They got it at Sam's Club, so it must not be that exotic, but I'd never heard of it before and thought it interesting.

5. Inspired by Amalia and Brinnly (not even one and sleeping in a big girl bed!), Jack is trying out the twin bed in his room tonight. We'll report back later on how it goes.