Space Ranger Training Camp

Isaac chose not to have a birthday party this year. In his maturity (he's FOUR now, you know), he has been sensing a build up of evil in the universe and determined that sharpening his skills at Space Ranger Training Camp is far more important than any silly party. After all, he's got to look after the new little alien.

I have to admit, I got a bit caught up in his mission, and spent the good part of a week gearing up for his departure to camp. I'm quite proud of "The Claw" Isaac and I created together. Not going to lie...it's pretty awesome.

Ever serious about his duty, Isaac kept his Space Memo #0004 in a place of honor so none of us would forget when the big day arrived.

As the Jr. Rangers arrived, they were greeted by everyone's favorite Space Ranger...Buzz Lightyear himself!

Of course, all true Space Rangers must have a uniform. As they checked in at the registration table, their first duty was to create their own custom attire. Each space button was placed with care and assigned its own unique purpose (laser beams, missiles, invisibility shields, flying machines, water guns, x-ray guns, ice cream makers, princess gems...all the essentials were covered).

Once the gear was completed, the rangers tested out their laser beams. (You never know when you're going to need to use it!)

Each ranger took a tour of the universe in our private rocket ship. And learned the proper care and use of space blasters. You never can be too careful...

Once each ranger was properly outfitted, the training continued with an exercise in moonwalking. Rangers learned all about how craters are formed and practiced catching meteorites before they could do any more damage to our precious moon!

After each ranger caught a meteorite, it was time to do a little dissecting and see what those babies are made of. Each ranger headed back to his or her space mat and began ripping into the cosmic stones. What did they find? TOYS! Who'd a thunk?

Rocket launching is (of course) an important part of ranger training.

Our little Space Rangers toured the wonders of the Galaxy and visited each planet as it orbited the sun.

They refined their skills in "The Claw"...so they can someday free their imprisoned alien friends.

They launched their mini-rockets at each planet and practiced their lunar landings as they must learn to land on even the tiniest of planets.

After such a long day of training, we rewarded our Rangers with cake.

...and then? It was back to the training. These Jr. Rangers were serious about their duty to protect, defend, and preserve their galaxy!

...and it was a good thing, because as they were busy training, guess who crashed the party?

The EVIL EMPEROR ZURG!!!

Our brave Space Rangers were quick to respond. Without hesitation, they grabbed their blasters and went in for the attack. The evil alien never had a chance against our battalion of Galactic Heroes!

Once Zurg had been obliterated, it was obvious that their training was complete. Each young ranger was presented his or her own Official Diploma from Galactic Star Command - signed by Buzz Lightyear himself!

And finally, since it WAS his birthday an all, Isaac opened a few presents. He is such a fun kid to spoil, because his reaction to each and every gift he receives is so sincerely euphoric.

Happy Birthday, Space Ranger Isaac. We adore you and will love the sweet, creative, innocent exuberance you add to our family...for infinity, and beyond!