Turtles, tadpoles and tripods

Last week being the first week I had 7 children here for the summer meant a whole lot of flexibility. I set up a schedule which previously works but expectantly needed a bit of modification. Then I also added activities to that boredom could be staved off for as long as possible. One of those activities was setting up a prehistoric sea monster (official name triod or something) kit #1 received for his bday.
Thus far it has been a flop since not a single egg has hatched. They gave us near a thousand so we will empty tank and try again. Then while helping Gma empty out her fish pond the kids discovered tadpoles and a string of frog eggs. One of the moms attending said we should put them in a vase and watch them grow. The teacher in me reared it head and I said great idea. Vase in hand #1 headed back to catch some. I will admit it did take a bit of persuading since this infringed upon his electronic time, LOL.
The vase proved not the best option, so they were quickly moved to rectangular Tupperware. At the top you can see pics from Day 1 and Day 2. Day has the string of eggs on the middle left which is more little straight black lines encased in gooey film. Day 2 is the one with the fingers pointing at the newly hatched tadpole and the remaining part of egg string. One day really can make a big difference.
Day 2 was Sunday and when Daddy headed out to mow the pasture he noticed a turtle burying its eggs in the mud. Knowing the children's interest level would be high he gathered us up, me taking a moment to grab the camera and scurry outside to check it out. There she was, head tucked in her shell, one leg out one inside digging the dirt. We watched her for a bit then walked away so she could finish. As we did another hole was found with the remains of hatched eggs. Annabeth and I touching the egg shells the boys a bit too skiddish. That inspection complete, we decided to head back inside. But to our surprise momma turtle was booking it back to the pond. I am pretty sure she knew we were still there, and moved at what must be her break neck speed. It was a sight to see.
Back at the first hole more discussion about marking the spot and how many eggs were there took place. No final decisions made we headed indoors. This country style life we are living is a nonstop adventure. I wouldn't trade it for the world!