Life as we Live it

Last Thursday was conferences for all 3 kids. It went very well = ) Mack was the first one up. She has taken a strong interest in writing. For instance, she made little book about horse. You have to color in the body part of the horse and then write the name of the body part on the paper. So, forehead, body, tail, hindlegs, forelegs, etc.. Her horse was a little different as the hindlegs were in front and forelegs in back = ) Without her sister to follow, she has blossomed into a leader for the younger students = ) The challenge school and ourselves face is keeping the expectations high and communicating those expectations. For example, she can buckle her seat belt. But there are times when for whatever reason (tired, lazy, just doesn't want to, etc...), she won't buckle it.

Eli continues to speak new words on a daily basis. Even words that the school nor us as parents remember using. Books are a huge interest to him. He will take a large stack in the corner and flip through them. His ample climbing skills was noted as well. He's been found almost over the chain link fence at school. It doesn't take but a second or two for this to happen - we know from experience!

Schuyler is a strong student all around. Her teachers and fellow classmates find her very enjoyable to be around. She is one of the first to help when needed. I like to hear this as it's more a reflection of her. Along with the regular reading homework, and math, they are now adding spelling to the mix. They each have individualized spelling words to work on.

Our very good friend's, the Fogo's, were in town this past week for a couple's baby shower. They are expecting their first at the beginning of February. I can't wait to meet the little man. The parents have more energy than anyone I know so I'm sure their child will have an energy level off the charts.

If all goes as planned, I'm taking tomorrow off and the kids, myself, and Grandma Cindy are heading to Vala's pumpking patch. Also, I think we are very close to buying Mark a new car = ) We may be going to Kansas City this weekend to pick it up. Again, knock on wood

I took pictures of the Montessori kids again this year. I got this new backdrop off ebay and am loving it. Here's one of Eli. So much for keeping him clean that a.m. You can see some dark spots on his shirt. You can see more pics here.

One of Mack and Eli. I have to go back and rework this one. It's a little "flat" for my taste.