Mer's Science Fair Extravaganza

I would be so sad if I didn't record the excitement of Mer's science fair experience.  It was a whole new world for us.  Her project:  The Effects of Infrared Radiation on the Growth and Mortality of Paramecium

 She spent weeks researching, testing, and getting her board ready for presentation.  All her work was done in class.  Finally they held an in school Science fair in which she took 5th place in her division.  The following week she set up her board in the local mall for the Regional Science Fair.  She sat by her board for 2 days (on a Friday and Saturday) while a variety of judges came and asked her questions. (this was the weekend before Luke's birthday)

One talent that Mer has is that she rarely gets nervous in pressure situations like these.   Her biggest worry those two days was over what to wear.  She even borrowed some coveted high heels to for the occasion and felt like a million bucks while wearing them.

Finally the judging was over and we met a local high school for the awards ceremony.  She won 4th place in her division this time and was ecstatic.  She walked across the stage in her fancy heels to accept her award.  Then she almost fell walking down the stairs in those tall heels. 

She is an intensive science research program and students from her school swept first place in all categories except one.  There were lots of cash awards and up to $25,000 scholarships handed out as well that night.

I can't even begin to tell you how excited Mer was that night.  She was on the fence about signing up for this class again next year but after that night she totally wants in!

After the awards ceremony we had to go back to the mall and help clean up the exhibits.  It was an exhausting, exciting day which we needed to finish off with a stop to Wendy's for a large frosty.  She even made a point to wear her ribbon in.

Funny girl! She also wore her ribbon to church the next day.  Mer is so fun right now.  I am enjoying every minute and am so proud of her.  Here's to hoping for smooth teenage years.  Ha Ha!