We are settling into our back-to-school routine. I started classes on Monday, teaching 3 classes for the first half of the fall. It always takes me a couple of weeks to really accept summer is over, but being on campus again helps. We've also figured out drop off and pick ups of the girls for school. Next week I'll be back in full swing with the start up of my Bible study and prepping for my 3rd-5th grade girls small group. Mix in school volunteer items and my time is spent!
Meanwhile, the girls are doing great. I am so proud of how Anna has transitioned to middle school. She's so organized and has already labeled all her notebooks. So far homework isn't bad either. And I love that she comes home almost every day talking about how much she loves math! Talk about the impact of a good teacher.
Paige is equally having a good time in class. She's anxiously awaiting the day her favorite friend in class, Sally, returns from Greece. She's adjusted to her new teacher and loves him. It doesn't hurt that he plays tag on the recess field. We've had some tough times at bed time, but I think that's due to being tired so I've implemented earlier bed time.
And of course, Patrick is doing his thing at the District Office and just started his class of 30 students. He was recently appointed by the Department of Education (federal level) to the National Assessment Governing Board for NAEP. Super exciting and an honor! He explained to me that if the US had a national school board, this would be it. He will travel 4 times a year, two to DC and two to other locations, to participate in assessing the state of education in the US.
So we're doing good over here. It's a new normal and it seems to be suiting us pretty well. I promise pictures next time!
Tuesday, August 27, 2019
Friday, August 23, 2019
How my garden grows
I'm not sure I've done a garden update in a while. I planted later in the spring this year due to lots of crazy things and wasn't sure I would like it because things were taking a lot longer to come up. Well it was a blessing because we were gone most of June and the first half of July, so it would have been impossible to enjoy the bounty. Instead most things have popped up through August and we were here to harvest.
I didn't plant the squash and zucchini this year to hopefully get rid of the squash vine borers. We'll have to see next year if that worked. Instead, I did plant a lot more bean plants and while it took a while for them to produce, they are going gang busters. This is the biggest and best looking bean crop I've gotten. We've had three solid meals from them, froze some and even shared with a friend.
The cucumbers didn't really take and my peppers are just now starting to do something. The carrots have been in the ground for what seems like forever, but they are actually nice a big. It's the first time they really turned out well.
And I'm absolutely loving our zinnias and sunflowers. They are so great for cutting and putting in arrangements. I chose a smaller version this year of the sunflowers to ward off the squirrels and it did the trick. Now if only I can get the deer or rabbits to stop eating my rose buses outside the garden!
I'll have to see if I have time to plant anything in the fall. We have a long growing season here so I know I'll be able to do something, but not sure if I really have time to tend it with all of our activities and such. That's why I love gardening...you can pick it up when you want and try things as you go.
I didn't plant the squash and zucchini this year to hopefully get rid of the squash vine borers. We'll have to see next year if that worked. Instead, I did plant a lot more bean plants and while it took a while for them to produce, they are going gang busters. This is the biggest and best looking bean crop I've gotten. We've had three solid meals from them, froze some and even shared with a friend.
The cucumbers didn't really take and my peppers are just now starting to do something. The carrots have been in the ground for what seems like forever, but they are actually nice a big. It's the first time they really turned out well.
And I'm absolutely loving our zinnias and sunflowers. They are so great for cutting and putting in arrangements. I chose a smaller version this year of the sunflowers to ward off the squirrels and it did the trick. Now if only I can get the deer or rabbits to stop eating my rose buses outside the garden!
I'll have to see if I have time to plant anything in the fall. We have a long growing season here so I know I'll be able to do something, but not sure if I really have time to tend it with all of our activities and such. That's why I love gardening...you can pick it up when you want and try things as you go.
Wednesday, August 21, 2019
1st day of school
It seriously did not feel like the first day of school. I was standing there greeting new parents at Paige's school and it felt surreal because I still felt like it should be summer. Regardless, the girls were in school and it was a great day.
Last night we did our annual measuring. They each have grown 2 inches. We did note to ourselves that almost 9 year old Paige is actually much taller than 9 1/2 year old Anna. Looks like she will catch up to big sister one day!
This morning you would have thought we were newbies! I had everything out, but we were still rushed. To be fair Anna leaves a half hour earlier now and Paige spilled egg on her back to school outfit which led to a removal of clothing, washing by hand said clothing and then using a hair dryer to dry it all before leaving. We did manage to get pictures and Paige actually pulled it together pretty well considering the circumstances. I am proud to say Patrick got Anna to school right on time, whew!
I loved greeting all the new parents and giving out free hugs. Paige of course was happy snappy to go see all her pals and return to her old classroom. Her BFF is in Greece right now so I know she will be glad when she returns.
I left there to grab a little treatsie from Starbucks and get my hair cut. Yay, for Mommy time! I also got the first day of cookie baked and then headed over to have lunch with a friend who also needed some help around the house, post surgery. Of course, in there I had a million other things I did and soon enough Anna was coming home on the bus.
I'd like to note, the bus thing is working great. I don't have two car lines to sit in and spend half my day in and my day is no shorter than when the two girls were at the same school. This is key because I have stuff to do! Anna arrived 10 minutes after school released and I got to see her for 10 minutes before leaving to pick up Paige. Winning!
Both the girls had a great day and it was fun to hear about the details. We sat and ate our cookie cake while recounting our days. I loved that when they both sat down together, Anna says: Paige, let me hear all about your day! So sweet.
Patrick also had a great day and enjoys his new class of students. He had to get his annual picture with Rusty, of course.
So we're officially started. There's lots of paperwork to be filled out and I'm learning about the procedures in each class. I'm also trying to figure out how much autonomy to give Anna when it comes to assignments and such. She's a responsible kid so I'm thinking it's a once in a while check in, but we'll see. We're off to a great start!
Last night we did our annual measuring. They each have grown 2 inches. We did note to ourselves that almost 9 year old Paige is actually much taller than 9 1/2 year old Anna. Looks like she will catch up to big sister one day!
This morning you would have thought we were newbies! I had everything out, but we were still rushed. To be fair Anna leaves a half hour earlier now and Paige spilled egg on her back to school outfit which led to a removal of clothing, washing by hand said clothing and then using a hair dryer to dry it all before leaving. We did manage to get pictures and Paige actually pulled it together pretty well considering the circumstances. I am proud to say Patrick got Anna to school right on time, whew!
I'm trying hard not to be upset about my outfit!
I loved greeting all the new parents and giving out free hugs. Paige of course was happy snappy to go see all her pals and return to her old classroom. Her BFF is in Greece right now so I know she will be glad when she returns.
I left there to grab a little treatsie from Starbucks and get my hair cut. Yay, for Mommy time! I also got the first day of cookie baked and then headed over to have lunch with a friend who also needed some help around the house, post surgery. Of course, in there I had a million other things I did and soon enough Anna was coming home on the bus.
I'd like to note, the bus thing is working great. I don't have two car lines to sit in and spend half my day in and my day is no shorter than when the two girls were at the same school. This is key because I have stuff to do! Anna arrived 10 minutes after school released and I got to see her for 10 minutes before leaving to pick up Paige. Winning!
Both the girls had a great day and it was fun to hear about the details. We sat and ate our cookie cake while recounting our days. I loved that when they both sat down together, Anna says: Paige, let me hear all about your day! So sweet.
Patrick also had a great day and enjoys his new class of students. He had to get his annual picture with Rusty, of course.
So we're officially started. There's lots of paperwork to be filled out and I'm learning about the procedures in each class. I'm also trying to figure out how much autonomy to give Anna when it comes to assignments and such. She's a responsible kid so I'm thinking it's a once in a while check in, but we'll see. We're off to a great start!
sweet babies
We have had an influx of sweet babies born at our church lately. In fact, two baby girls were born on the same day! One of which belongs to our wonderful youth pastor. They also have a two year old who reminds me so much of baby Anna, it's unreal. I just love her!
I was asked to tack pictures of this sweet family and it was fun to be able to bless them for all the ways they have poured into our family, including taking Anna to camp this summer.
Here are some of my favorites...
Tuesday, August 20, 2019
Summer wrap up
I'm kind of in denial summer is actually over. You get used to a routine and then bam! It's done. We've been busy having fun these last few days. And of course, we're also taking care of business too. I've especially enjoyed my summer snuggles in bed with the girls. They come over to watch a show and we stay in bed for a bit before wandering out for breakfast. So nice!
The girls have enjoyed play dates with friends. They are getting in their last practice of their summer project: The Lion King. We hope to have them perform it soon. This Friday we will be going to see the movie in theaters. Yay!
On Monday night we headed to Anna's school to meet her teachers. I also represented the PTO table, which I found hilarious considering I am brand new and could not answer any questions. It was actually pretty helpful and I learned a lot. We loved all of Anna's teachers and I think she is in for a good year. I was also glad we were able to actually see her classes and she could walk her schedule so she knew where to go on the first day.
Today was actually Anna's first unofficial day at school. She attended a Step Up to Sixth program for half the day. They give them lockers and locks as well as lots of other helpful information. I'm not going to lie...I teared up a bit dropping her off. Paige prayed for her in the car and Anna made sure to note this would be the last time they rode to school together until Anna's senior year in high school. Wahhhhh! I was pleased that when Anna got out of the car, the administrator standing there said: Anna! I've been waiting for you! She rode the bus home and that was great practice. I was happy to hear a good report and she was actually pretty positive about how things went.
Sister love....maybe?
Meanwhile Paige and ran errands and set some things up at her school. I loved her helpful attitude with all the teachers. I'll be there to help with Koffee and Kleenex in the morning. So we are all set for our first day of school tomorrow! Guess I better be ready because here it comes!!
The girls have enjoyed play dates with friends. They are getting in their last practice of their summer project: The Lion King. We hope to have them perform it soon. This Friday we will be going to see the movie in theaters. Yay!
On Monday night we headed to Anna's school to meet her teachers. I also represented the PTO table, which I found hilarious considering I am brand new and could not answer any questions. It was actually pretty helpful and I learned a lot. We loved all of Anna's teachers and I think she is in for a good year. I was also glad we were able to actually see her classes and she could walk her schedule so she knew where to go on the first day.
A Powell and Kelly middle schooler
Today was actually Anna's first unofficial day at school. She attended a Step Up to Sixth program for half the day. They give them lockers and locks as well as lots of other helpful information. I'm not going to lie...I teared up a bit dropping her off. Paige prayed for her in the car and Anna made sure to note this would be the last time they rode to school together until Anna's senior year in high school. Wahhhhh! I was pleased that when Anna got out of the car, the administrator standing there said: Anna! I've been waiting for you! She rode the bus home and that was great practice. I was happy to hear a good report and she was actually pretty positive about how things went.
Picnic lunch to wait for Anna's bus
Sister love....maybe?
Meanwhile Paige and ran errands and set some things up at her school. I loved her helpful attitude with all the teachers. I'll be there to help with Koffee and Kleenex in the morning. So we are all set for our first day of school tomorrow! Guess I better be ready because here it comes!!
Sunday, August 18, 2019
Charlotte, NC
Ok we are officially DONE with all our summer travel adventures. This past Saturday we drove just an hour up the road to Charlotte to see my brother and his girlfriend. Aaron and Audrey moved there this summer and we are happy to have them closer. We're excited to see them more often!
Our first stop was checking out their new apartment, which is both awesome and a lot more put together now that Audrey is in the picture! Plus the girls commented that is smelled better for sure. They have a great place in a nice location. Next we went to a local park with a Play60 obstacle course. Anna was pumped because she did a project on kid fitness and included this, but has never seen one. Uncle Aaron showed us how it was done!
We walked around the park more and it was getting toasty so we headed to lunch at Shake Shack, a Patrick favorite. Paige wasn't feeling too well and had a serious headache. I tried to give her some IB Profin and then decided to rest her in the cool, quiet, dark car. On the way there she threw up, her headache was so bad.
We finally got her back to the apartment where she laid down for a bit and perked up. But as she was sitting on the couch next to Patrick, she threw up again. Poor thing! And poor Patrick! Aaron took all this in and ended up losing his cookies too. But the good news is Paige felt a lot better and at that point I was able to get some liquid meds in her which helped her head. The best I can tell was she got a migraine caused by heat and dehydration.
While Paige rested a bit more, Uncle Aaron took Anna to the apartment pool and I got to hang with Audrey. She's a great addition to the group and it was nice getting to chat with her for a while.
Paige perked up pretty quickly and we all headed to the American Girl Doll store at the mall. The girls were amazed and it was fun to check out different stores as well as be inside from the heat. After that it was time to head home.
It was a fun if not memorable visit. I feel like if we haven't scared off Audrey with vomit or choking, then she must be a keeper. Hopefully our next visit won't be quite as eventful. Ohh and Aaron definitely got some teasing from us about his weak stomach.
Our first stop was checking out their new apartment, which is both awesome and a lot more put together now that Audrey is in the picture! Plus the girls commented that is smelled better for sure. They have a great place in a nice location. Next we went to a local park with a Play60 obstacle course. Anna was pumped because she did a project on kid fitness and included this, but has never seen one. Uncle Aaron showed us how it was done!
We walked around the park more and it was getting toasty so we headed to lunch at Shake Shack, a Patrick favorite. Paige wasn't feeling too well and had a serious headache. I tried to give her some IB Profin and then decided to rest her in the cool, quiet, dark car. On the way there she threw up, her headache was so bad.
We finally got her back to the apartment where she laid down for a bit and perked up. But as she was sitting on the couch next to Patrick, she threw up again. Poor thing! And poor Patrick! Aaron took all this in and ended up losing his cookies too. But the good news is Paige felt a lot better and at that point I was able to get some liquid meds in her which helped her head. The best I can tell was she got a migraine caused by heat and dehydration.
While Paige rested a bit more, Uncle Aaron took Anna to the apartment pool and I got to hang with Audrey. She's a great addition to the group and it was nice getting to chat with her for a while.
Paige perked up pretty quickly and we all headed to the American Girl Doll store at the mall. The girls were amazed and it was fun to check out different stores as well as be inside from the heat. After that it was time to head home.
It was a fun if not memorable visit. I feel like if we haven't scared off Audrey with vomit or choking, then she must be a keeper. Hopefully our next visit won't be quite as eventful. Ohh and Aaron definitely got some teasing from us about his weak stomach.
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