Eric's Birthday Party

Eric's birthday isn't until August 7th (turning 12), but he really wanted to have a party before school was out because several of his friends were leaving India for good. And lucky for me, he wanted to have his party at our house. So we called it a "Schools Out/Birthday Party" and boy, did they have a blast!!!!

It was so nice because all the kids played together and got along perfectly. They all enjoy doing the same things - I guess that's why they're friends! Here are some pictures:



They started off playing basketball



When they got too hot and sweaty, they jumped into the pool




They didn't bother to change into swimsuits! I think it's because they started pushing each other in before they had a chance to change.




This picture is mostly to show you our gazebo. We love it!

Just wanted to show another view of our backyard. We are fortunate enough to have grass.

After swimming, they had pizza and garlic bread from Domino's. Not quite the same as in the US, but good enough. They also had papaya and mango, chips, and cake.

Now that they have refueled, time for a water balloon fight! And yes, Eric and I filled over 80 balloons (over the course of 2 days)! I was the one who tied them and my fingers were raw!

Eric is armed and ready

The 80 some water balloons didn't last long - but it was fun. Now time for cricket - a new sport for Eric to practice. They had quite a game going - I had to BEG them to come have cake!

Here's the gang! Starting from the left: Kavin from the UK, Rahul from India, Gaya from India, Divya from Sri Lanka/USA, Eric, Zach from the Philippines, Quinn from India, Zeke from Philippines (twin of Zach) and Sebastian from Germany.

It is heart warming to see these children from all over the world be accepting of each others differences, enough to realize how much they have in common so they can be friends.