The Great Sea-Monkey Experiment Days 3, 4 & 5

Day 3: The morning after I had added the Sea-Monkey eggs to the Magic Castle, I did a bit more research on line. Much to my dismay, I realized that I used tap water, not bottled water to the my container.

I also learned I need to be more patient. The eggs may take a bit longer to hatch due to a slightly cooler than optimal environment and lack of Northern exposure sunlight. (Not much sunlight this time of year!)

While it will be a bit of an embarrassment to have to start over, if I send a self-addressed stamped envelope with $3 I can get another set of packets 1 & 2 PLUS a free Sea-Monkey handbook (a $6 value).

I guess I'll give it another few days.

Days 4 & 5: I have moved the container to a warmer area of the house. I am also trying to get more light, both sunlight and from a lamp. Still no real sign of life yet.

When we jostle the Magic Castle by lifting it to get a better look inside or when transferring it to a spot of sunshine, we can see specks of matter swirling around. At first we fool ourselves into believing we can see tiny tadpole-like creatures. Upon closer inspection, we can only see moving flakes and dots that stop moving once the liquid is still.

I don't know which is more disturbing; the possibility that our tap water is not fit for even Sea-Monkeys or that we are not able to take care of even the tiniest pet.

Several Blog & Twitter friends have had succeeded to a point where as @madebyamyD put it,

" kids had those. They refused to die!" and continued on in an effort to make me feel better,
"hmm, I would be glad. They are pretty gross. They mate like crazy and it totally grossed me out. enjoying YOUR story though :)"

Right now I am not glad. In fact I am quite sad. And feeling a bit inadequate....

I will give it until Monday and then contact the manufacturer.

Stay tuned!