It's swimming carnival time again and Alara did not disappoint!

 Main rival and friend Mikaela...

 Bringing home her haul - well done La!

 At District now and getting ready for her 50m freestyle. Her relay team placed 4th and La placed in the top 20 for both her freestyle and backstroke.

Leyla didn't miss out on getting wet either - lucky for her (and La!) her new school friend Indiana invited her to a birthday pool party. Everybody's happy.

Honestly.

Who grew these two?!?

An old first aid kit kept them occupied for hours. 

Thankfully.

Very special times for everyone this year. Leyla starting school means a new beginning for her and the end of a chapter for us all.

 Super excited to finally be going to school with La.

 All smart and ready on her first day.

 With a few little friends all in the same boat.

 Last cuddles before it all starts...

 ...and we're off! Not that Leyla was at all worried that day. She's settled in well enough, just the usual uncertainty about people and processes that we all face when in a new space.

 Lucho started high school this year as popped around for a little catch up on their respective first days.

And the sports uniform. Everyone is happy and loving this learning business (thankfully!)

It's birthday time for Baba and we always like to make it just a little bit special for him...

 A new hat this year with some fab drawings, cards and chocolate.

 Out to dinner - Sami's pick was Lebonese.

 Home again for his ice cream cake as dessert.

We love you Baba!!!