Where's the Camera?

This is the question far too often. I really need to learn to carry it with me. So here is a rundown of some of the things we've done that I've failed to document properly with pictures.

The base had a Spring Fling in the park in April. There was food, games, and bouncy houses. It was a lot of fun.  Relay for Life was going at the same time. Ben participated. The girls had their hair spray painted pink and purple...I actually took a picture of that.

In May, there was a Sports Day that Ben participated in. His team (SFS team #3) won the Big Ball Soccer tournament....didn't do as well in the other events. Security Forces did get the Dirtiest Team award, though, after a strong showing in the tug-a-war. It took place on a Friday so the older two kids couldn't be there for most of it. The younger two and I spent the whole day with Ben, though, and it was nice. Even if they did get a little bored.

Lizzy took another field trip to visit a fossil field and gypsum mine. I can't remember where exactly they went, but she enjoyed it and brought back some souvenirs.

I chaperoned Alex's end-of-year field trip to the base theater to watch Rio. It wasn't long or exciting, but he was so excited that I went with him.

We went to one of the local malls. It's fairly new and 4 stories tall! The kids (and I) were a little in awe.

We tried to find the other mall with less than wonderful directions. We ended up just driving around. The kids got a nap out of it, though, so I guess it wasn't a total waste. Plus, driving here is an adventure in itself. Lane markings don't seem to have much meaning. I let Ben do all the driving when we're off base.

We've eaten at a couple of local restaurants with varying success. I love the food I've tried so far...especially the bread. The kids are not so sure.

I've gone to the market (outdoor) a few times. Ben went with me once. We can get great fresh produce for a great price. I've also bought farm-fresh eggs and fresh bread. It would be a little easier if I could learn some more Turkish. Since it's just off base most of them speak/understand enough English that we can get by, but I try to use my limited Turkish as a courtesy.

Lizzy made the A/B Honor Roll. Alex has shown progress in school and says that he likes school here "a lot, a lot" better than in Texas. Garret is registered for Kindergarten in the fall and is excited to start.

And, I think that is it for this post. We've had a number of everyday adventures, but this a pretty good overview.