California Adventure

Still... everyone had a fantastic time at the water park. Valerie's waterproof camera came in handy, and we took lots of pictures and some videos in the water. People around us were impressed when they saw us using the camera in the water. Oh yea, you see the boys in the picture... if Jacky and Calvin kept eating, I think they would turn out just like them!

On the way home, one of the tires flattened. Luckily, another car on the road honked and informed us. It was the rear right tire, and it had a cut on the side. Fortunately, the Lexus Rx400H came with a full size spare. I parked the car at the nearest gas station and changed the tire in about 15 mins. While I was working on the car, kids were fascinated, and they wondered how Teacher Paul would know how to work on the car. I told them, during high school I worked at a car shopm and that's how I learned how to fix a car. After taking the tire off, my brother wanted to help, so he tried to roll the tire around but the tire fell on the drinks, and the drinks splashed all over my face and shirt. It was fun to watch!

Overall this trip is not only about fun, but it's about becoming more independent, more brave, conquering your fears, developing a sense of responsibility, and growing to become a stronger person. I have already seen changes in some of them such as Jordan and Joe. They remember to do their chores without being told. Everyday, they have a job to do, and they are learning as they go. They are still having some problems one such as Calvin, who didn't take a shower for a few days. Jacky still can't control his eating habits, and he can be very lazy. Valerie is still too shy, and sometimes that can be disrespectful. This is just part of a process, and this is just the beginning..... (to be continued)