Some pig!

The boys and I went on a Valentine's date to the Austin Zoo and Animal Sanctuary.  We saw all sorts of beautiful animals, like big cats and monkeys to name a few.  We didn't expect to find a common farm pig among the exotics, but there he was, "Babe."

One of the zoo keepers told us that a girl had raised him for show and when it came time to sell the giant pig for slaughter, she could not do it.  The zoo took this guy in and the girl still visits and brings toys and treats for him.

We learned some interesting facts about pigs that day!  Did you know that pigs are really smart, like as smart as a young child?  Babe had actually been tested and he learned how to use a joystick within a day; treats were his motivation.  The same test had been performed on a dog and it took the canine close to one full year to get it down.

Babe also has to wear sunscreen so he won't burn his delicate pink skin.  And one last interesting fact is that the inside of pigs are very close to our own make-up, strange huh?

Meet sleepy Mr. Babe!

Oxidation with atoms and molecules

Big T is still enjoying the science experiments presented in Apologia's Exploring Creation with Physical Science.

In this experiment, he needed:

9 volt battery
Wire crimpers or scissors              

Water
Small glass
Baking soda
Measuring spoon (1 tsp)
Plastic spoon to stir
2 coated copper wires
Tape
Safety glasses
Notebook to record data
Pen or pencil

What he did:

He filled his glass about 3/4 full of water & stirred in 1 teaspoon of baking soda.  The 1 teaspoon of baking soda ended up not being enough, so he added 2 more later.  Next, he took the wire crimpers and stripped off 1/4 inch of the insulation or coating on both ends of the wires. 

Here's the tricky part - He attached one of the stripped ends (can use tape) on one of the battery terminals, then repeated with the second wire & was careful not to let the loose ends touch each other. Then, he placed the loose wires into the water (without touching one another).

Bubbles started forming in the water once the additional baking soda was added.  The book said to leave the wires in the water for 10 minutes and when he did that, the wires turned different colors.

He let the experiment run for a much longer duration, probably about 20 minutes.  He noticed that the water started to turn green as well.

It's a boy

Welcome home Baby T! Delivery and recovery were a bit rough, but I will not bore anyone with the details.  Instead, we have this perfect little miracle to focus upon.  I am honored and most delighted to care for this precious baby boy.  Thank you Jesus for such a beautiful gift!

The boys are quite enamored!