Super-Heroes

Today was "Super-Hero" dress up day for Spirit Week at school. CW went as "Zorro" -- although he's not seen the movies, and I'm not even sure he knows who Zorro is. EW went as Snow White -- there is no doubt in her mind that Snow White is a super-hero. But I have to say, CW and EW are MY super-heroes!! These two kids amaze me!!! No, they are not perfect, and Yes, I do see their faults. But I am often amazed by their goodness. CW is endlessly patient and loving to his little brother -- at 20 months, RDW has NEVER heard CW yell at him, or be angry with him, even though RDW has done things that might warrant frustration and anger from CW. CW is thoughtful of people around him, and intently listens when they speak. He is popular with his peers, and easily accepted by adults. He is always the first to express gratitude for dinner, a fun outing, or a "Zorro" costume. He is obedient and genuinely tries to be the best person he can. EW adores both her brothers, and is kind to them. She shares her favorite doll with her little brother, and lets her older brother tell her how to play Star Wars (even though normally, EW is the one telling people how to play the games). EW is meticulous in her school work, and in her coloring-in, and in her choosing of clothing to wear. EW is confident and comfortable with herself and her own sense of fashion, and can therefore make any combination seem stylish. EW is sincere in all she does, so when she gives a compliment, there is no doubt that she means it with all her heart. EW is good at receiving gifts and kind acts, and responds with such enthusiastic gratitude, that the giver looks forward to the next opportunity to give EW something again. I love these kids!! I am so glad to be their mom, and to be in the company of "Super-Heroes" everyday!

Aquatic Wildlife

One of the main draws of coming to South Africa was the chance to see some outstanding wildlife. So far we have focused on the iconic land mammals, but we decided it was time to look for some of the iconic aquatic animals so we booked a long weekend in Hermanas.

Hermanas in known for having the "best land based whale watching on earth". At one point we got a great view of a whale not far from shore. After watching for several minutes I looked over at Evee to share the joy and she wasn't even looking at the whale. She apparently thought that whale watching was far from exciting. When I thought about it I suppose watching a whale bob up and down in the water really isn't all that exciting. They did look a lot like big black rocks. The penguins were more exciting than the whales, but they also had their drawbacks.