Return of the King

King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia declared a holiday this past Saturday.  This was in honor of his safe return from a three month absence.  He was actually in the US for medical reasons.  We really enjoyed our unexpected three-day weekend.  I did not find out until Marcella came home from school on Wednesday and told me.  I was a little skeptical, but Casey confirmed the good news when he came home. 

On Thursday we enjoyed a KAUST sponsored event called "Family Fun Day."  The day started off with bike races in the morning.  There were races for all ages and bike and helmet decorating contests.  We decided just to be observers this year but I can tell the girls are excited about entering next year.  The adult bike race was a site to watch.  Four of the men competing were professional-like with appropriate gear and bikes.  I have never seen a bike race up close and I was very impressed with their speed. 

In the afternoon we played at the Fun Day's "water park" set up.  KAUST had kiddie pools out with hoses for toddlers and for the school agers there were jumping castles and water.  The girls had a blast with all their friends.  It was so fun watching them run around.  The pictures show the girls with their faces painted (done during Fun Day).

KAUST also sponsored a Classic Car Show this past weekend.  This event was situated along the Harbor area and we all enjoyed viewing the cars.  There were even some good oldies playing to help us get in the mood.  We were all most impressed with the cool shelby cobra and corvettes.

Finally you'll see little Eleanor holding her first duplo cake!