Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

At Michaela's School Age Child Care (SACC) program that she participated in this summer, each child was able to pick an area of interest each week. Surprise, surprise - Michaela picked the drama and arts segment. As a culminating activity the students (Grade K - 8) put on a play, complete with scenery and costumes. Michaela was cast as Charlie(Charlene)Bucket, one of four children who found the golden ticket and had the opportunity to tour Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory.

We were very excited to go to Virginia and watch Michaela's performance - and of course she did a super fantastic job. The pictures below: The golden ticket winners meeting Willy Wonka and beginning the tour, Charlie hearing the news that she and her family can move in and help run the factory, the Oompa Loompa "chorus line," Charlie posing with her father , Mr. Bucket, who also doubled as an Oompa Loompa, and of course, her proud family.  Note at the end, Jim and Nathan practice pumping on the swings on the playground after the performance. And that's the latest buzz from SACC Hollywood!

Sami Turns Two!

Over thirty people partied with Sami at the end of July as he celebrated his 2nd birthday with a Thomas the Train theme party. Melanie did an awesome job with party planning, prep, and execution (with a little help from Jim, Barb and Marcie.)

On his "official" birthday, Sami had a celebratory cupcake with his bro, Amine, Melanie and the grandparents. The next day the house turned into party central - with swimming, a bounce house, excellent food and lots of great gifts.

Happy second birthday, Sami!