Speech Meet and Maker Faire

Connor's school did a family night in May that included a picnic, musical program, and a "Speech Meet" where the kids all recited poems or speeches they had memorized.  Connor did "Bedtime" by Eleanor Farjean, which is basically about a kid begging for more time to play - it suited him perfectly.  We've been really happy with the homeschool program there, and are planning to send Elise in the fall.
  

  
The weekend after Mothers Day we took a family trip to the Bay Area for Maker Faire.  We knew friends who had done it before, and Ryan was particularly excited to go see everything.  Maker Faire is basically a giant science fair put on by Make magazine that has displays on all manner of homemade gadgets and crafts.  It's totally nerdy and fun.  After I told my brother Kyle we were going, he decided to fly down and meet us, plus our good friends Justin and Tiffany and their kids (who already live in the area) tagged along.
  

Masking Tape Sculpture

R2D2 Builders' Club

This giant mechanical dragon spewed fire out of it's mouth (other end.)

Making the Tail Swing

Elise said she wanted a turn, then got scared and cried. (It's pretty high up.)

  
I have to say it was definitely cool, and mostly very fun, but not really for kids under six or so.  It was a little tricky trying to push a stroller through the crowds, and the little ones didn't have much to occupy them.  Connor had a great time, though.  He got to make a battery-powered toy car and a rocket, and could have done a ton more stuff if we'd had the time.
  

Waiting to Launch the Rocket

Version 2.0 (Repaired with Electrical Tape)

  
The next day we were able to have brunch with Ryan's sister Helena, which was really nice.  Afterwards we stopped by the Oakland temple before our drive home - probably the most beautiful temple grounds there are!