last day [bali day 8]

As we are getting ready for a short weekend jaunt this weekend, I need to finish the Bali story. Our last day in Bali, we took a boat out to an island that has a sea turtle sanctuary. On the way to the island, we stopped for some snorkeling. I must say that the snorkeling was disappointing. Especially compared to Tioman Island. But at least it gave the kids perspective on how amazing the snorkeling was there! Where we were at in Bali, the waves were huge and kept crashing over us and the current was really strong. In fact, T spent exactly 5 minutes in the water and she was done. But that is how it is when you plan these things, you just never know how it will turn out. But Turtle Island (the sea turtle sanctuary) more than made up for it.

Baby sea turtles. The sanctuary helps sick turtles and after a year or so, they are released back into the ocean.

Picking up a medium-size turtle. This one was about 8kg (or 17.5 lbs.).

So funny that Becca was making faces here. But as you will see, there is no need to doubt her bravery.

Given the opportunity to get in the tank with the bigger turtles, Becca was the first to jump at the chance.

These turtles are about 120kg (264.5 lbs.) and around 65 years old.

 T loved feeding them kelp.

 B was a little uncertain about this lizard. Can't say that I blame her!

 T would only touch it with some Daddy assistance.

Anyone questioning her bravery now?

She did NOT want the eagle on her shoulder.

Can you read his lips? He is saying, "Ow! That hurts!"

 But after the eagle was placed on his shoulder, he was ready to show a big smile.

The eagle was trying to nip at my sunglasses. I laugh every time I look at this pic.

Yeah, that is the girl that was cringing at a sea turtle. Holding a bat.

These are such crazy birds. I have no recollection of their name.

The boat ride back was fun through the big waves.

Then we got back in enough time to spend the afternoon at the hotel pool. We had brought our sinkers with us. Who knew that 4 rings could provides days of entertainment?!

T freaked out several hotel guest with her goggles. One lady kept saying, "they are just so weird."

Writing postcards to friends in the US. Something we try to do whenever we travel. One small way that helps our kids stay connected with friends in the US.

5 scoops of absolute yumminess. We each picked a flavour of gelato. I think we choose: cookies and cream, ferrar roche, carmel, chocolate chip and nutella.

Doesn't this day just keep on going? Our flight left Bali at 2 AM. Isn't that craziness? Tori didn't even make it to the check-in counter before she fell asleep. After we checked in, Andy carried her through immigration, and plopped her in her seat on the plane. Later when she woke up, she asked, "Have we taken off yet?" We had already been in the air for 5+ hours!

Of course, J has his kindle!

We had such a great trip. But are glad to back in the routine of life. I was glad to have the break of not even thinking about adoption paperwork for a whole week! But we are back in the thick of it and our home study is next week.