Monday, August 29, 2011

First Day of School!

Today was our first day of school for the 2011/2012 year. We often start a week earlier than the public schools so we can take time off later in the fall without feeling badly or falling behind. We had some here who were very excited and wanting to begin (Emmi) and some who would be happy to wait until November - or later, as long as they didn't need to catch up next spring (Tim). I have made up new schedules, and new lists, and the first day went fairly well. It helps that we are sticking pretty close to what we have done in other years, so the previous year's schedule just needed a little tweaking. It is always daunting to open up the new book (math in particular!) and start lesson 1, of 123 or so! However, I hope the children are learning, as I am learning, that once you begin and work steadily away at something, you get through it. I needed to remind myself of this lesson as I left them to work independently this afternoon, and came out to do house painting!

Friday, August 19, 2011

Harvesting



"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9

Sometimes it is really hard to keep going! In some ways, I am in that state right now, there's a lot going on. However, we do have the promise from the Bible, and we do see this principle in real life. Emmi and Ben were able to harvest their radishes some weeks ago. They were really yummy! And now we have zucchini, beans and tomatoes coming in (and a few cucumbers). Pip is watching, rather impatiently, a pumpkin on his vine that is starting to turn orange.

The summer has been busy. Lots of good going on, the children have just finished week 5 of 6 weeks of swimming lessons. And our big project is painting the house (exterior). I need to get some photos of that! We are also turning our eyes to the calendar and starting to think about school! It seems to have gone so fast, but I think I say that every year! Stay tuned, and keep on keeping on!


Monday, August 8, 2011

Fresh Air Fund


 We've had our visit from our Fresh Air Fund girl, Janelle. This was her third visit with us, and it was a great one! We did a lot with her, some of which doesn't feel important enough to mention, but is the type of thing that the FAF tells us is good for the children like hanging out at home in the back yard and playing in the sprinkler. In the above photo, Emmi and Janelle are rolling out pastry to make pies. Emmi's was blueberry, and Janelle's was sour cherry. Both were excellent!

One highlight of the visit was a trip to Toronto. We went to the Toronto Islands and took a picnic supper. After swimming we ate supper, visited Franklin's Garden and then rode the ferry back across to the city.
The group in front of a large fountain!

Emmi and Janelle waiting for the ferry.