Science birthday party!

Riley was in luck. When he requested a science-themed 5th birthday party, it turned out he had a real live scientist living in his very own house. And that scientist did not disappoint.

The stage was set with toy molecules and colorful safety glasses for all the kids.

For the first hour the kids played in the backyard.

Then they all put on their safety glasses, assembled on the steps and . . . cue The Final Countdown. . . Poof! Science Dad appeared!

Employing smoke, self-filling balloons, color changing chemicals, and many explosions, Andy performed a 20 minute show with several kid assistants.

Perhaps the biggest hit with the kids was this gag where the assistant, Henri, couldn't keep the lip on the chips canister because it was filled with dry ice. As you can see from the yellow disk in the air, it popped off repeatedly, despite Henri's promises to keep it on. Huge crowd pleaser!

Andy also elicited big laughs from the parents.

Q. Why should you never step on dry ice?
A. Because you'll leave a carbon footprint!

Good show!

Despite the party's science theme, Riley was clear that he wanted a baseball themed cake. Reflecting his quite unusual devotion to both the Dodgers and the Giants, he requested an ice cream cake for each team. I'll give you one guess as to which cake was more popular with this crowd!

While we cleaned up from the party, Riley watched a few innings of the Giants game, including a MadBum homer. Then the backyard was clear for hours and hours of baseball practice at Riley's request. By nightfall, the score was 92-38 Riley. He clearly had a great day!