Marine Mammal Institute

 

The Institute for Marine Mammal Study is a little treasure here on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi.  It is a rescue center for dolphins, whales, turtles, etc.  

It is fascinating to read about the rescues and what great work they do.  They also allow tours and interactions with some of the creatures.  

 

My kiddos enjoying the touch pool where they can pet sting rays and sharks.

 

Amelia received the dolphin interaction as one of her birthday presents this year.  

She got to give the dolphin all sorts of commands and rewards as well as learn about dolphin behavior.  

When I was 12, I would have given up everything I owned to be that close to a dolphin.  It would have been beyond my wildest dreams to imagine rubbing a dolphin's tummy.

 

Another trainer brought out one of the other dolphins to play with Addison.  

Kisses!

 

Dolphin dance!

IMMS once again did not disappoint and we had a great day!

 

Luke's 10th Birthday!

 

Luke celebrated his birthday the entire weekend this year but his real birthday was on a Sunday and it was filled with fun!  After church we went out for breakfast and he was presented with a cake and the whole restaurant sang Happy Birthday to him.  And chocolate milk in a wine glass is pretty fun too.

 Sweet Luke could barely contain himself when he came down in the morning and saw his presents.

 

I just cannot believe it has been ten years since I had this sweet, baby boy placed in my arms.  

 A new bike!!

 Luke enjoying a sister sandwich hug.

 

Luke is pretty easy to please on his birthday, lots of Lego sets and sports gear.

 Luke has been begging for a Lionel Messi jersey.  He is a famous soccer star.

 

He also has been begging and pleading for this gigantic Nerf gun.  Look at Addison's reaction when she sees him open it.  She knows she is usually the unlucky and unwilling target of said Nerf guns.

 

He was a teeny bit excited.  Ha!

 

After presents we headed to the Biloxi Shucker game.  We had seats right behind home plate.  

 

It was great because Luke got to meet a ton of players and get their autographs so he was super excited!  The Shuckers are the minor team to the Milwaukee Brewers which is a fun connection to my home town.

 

His new Shucker hat...he was able to get 20 signatures of the team!!!

He is a persistent little guy.  

But seriously, how could you say no to that sweet face.

Happy 10th Birthday Luke!

You bring us so much joy and energy and excitement!

We love you SO much Lukey!

Luke's 10th Birthday Weekend

 

Luke turned 10 this month and boy did we celebrate that weekend!!  

We cannot believe our little baby boy has moved to double digits.  

And yes, it pained me to order these cupcakes for him but I knew he would be so happy and surprised!

 

Luke once again chose to have his birthday party at Treasure Oak Country Club.  He and his friends had a great time playing water polo, kickball, eating and just goofing off.  

 

What a great way to spend a Friday afternoon!

 

The next day we continued to celebrate by heading out to Horn Island.  It was a beautiful day and the water was crystal clear.  

Amelia and Luke have really gotten into "spike ball."  

 

Making a sand cake.

 

Luke found some sand dollars out in the water this trip.

 

Nothing like celebrating your birthday with good friends on a beautiful island.