A Bit of This and That

:::::::::::::::Home School Article::::::::

Here is an excellent blog article by Bob Barr, here in Georgia. He attempts to rally parents to encourage state legislators and other leaders to speak out against the debacle created by the California court rulings that nullified the parents' rights and, effectively made each child a ward of the state.

:::::::::::::::Freshly Squeezed:::::::::::



My daughter and her cousin, Isabell having a great big hug!
<sub>Credits: Luisa Leandro: Buttons
'Buttons' Kit by Luisa Leandro (aka Dawn Inskip) available at www.sophiasarducci.com from 7 April
Dawn Inskip: Embossed Alpha (set 2)
Fresh Kit
flowers from Guest C.t. kit
NDISB
http://www.ndisb.com/store/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=58&zenid=6f749e8e3eef36755bd930bff3df535c
TTS
http://digistore.treasurestoscrap.com/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=20
SSS
http://shop.scrapscandistyle.com/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=43

Catrine: Explore Solids

Darcy Baldwin: DJB Messie Amanda at The Digichick
http://www.thedigichick.com/shop/product.php?productid=17789&cat=273&page=2</sub>

::::::::::::::Anna Benjamin:::::::::
is interning as a designer at Scrapbookgraphics and she was so kind as to send some of her new designs for me to create some layouts. Here are a few:








::::::::::::::::::Pride and Prescience:::::::


This book appealed to me to me in two ways when I saw it on the library table. One, it is written about two of my favorite characters, Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy, and second, it is a mystery. I have been reading it off and on for a couple of days and I'm enjoying, so far. I'll give you a review when I'm done.

:::::::::::::::::::An Oldie, But A Goodie:::::::

Rachel was in her room giggling and she got up to show me what was so funny. She had grabbed one of my old books off the shelf and was enjoying it, thoroughly.
This photo is not from the book she was reading, but it was the only one I saw that worked on google. I picked this paperback up at a place that allowed you to trade in your old books and buy others. The last copyright date listed is 1973. Rachel loved reading about the antics of Hi and Lois' family. I think it is such a great thing to share a sense of humor with my kids...twisted as it may be!


Smiles!

Bagpipe Playing Grannies ROCK!

My dear cyber pal, Carol, inspired me to use Eve's photo all by itself, so this is the outcome:


_{Credits: Spring Fling Collab: Kate Hadfield, Rachel Young, and Michelle Godin, Swirl Therapy by Jofia Designs, Font: CK ALI}
Eve is glancing back at me taking and wanting me to catch up and walk with her.

:::::::::::::::Dawn Inskip::::::::::

Carol also inquired about Dawn Inskip. She is a designer who sells funky and doodly styled designs at 5 stores. She also sells at one store under a pseudonym, Luisa Leandro. It is a quirky thing one of the sites does with all its designers. Here are some links to her designs:

NDISB
TTS
Sophia Sarducci's as Luisa Leandro
Scrap Scandi Style



:::::::::::::::::::Pre-School Week::::::

Eve has had two of her favorite beings visit her pre-school class. On Wednesday, Aaron and I took Jasper, the ferret, to school for "Pet Day". Eve's teacher gave everyone a time for their pet so that no horrific pet disasters occurred due to incompatibility. Aaron red the children a little bit about what a ferret is and how they were domesticated. Eve was proud to have Jasper in her lap some of the time. The teachers were a bit creeped out by the concept and appearance of a ferret, while the school director and music teacher thought he was adorable. Most of the kids were excited to pet him and Jasper was well behaved. We took him in a newspaper lined hamper and he was so anxious to explore, but we had to keep him contained.

......Day 2, today, was "Grandparent's Day"
I had already told the teacher about the bagpipe playing granny. Crystal, the lead teacher, was also excited to meet the famous and mysterious "Granny with the Yellow hair". My mom showed up with her Georgia Tartan (a regional one for the state)scarf. She brought her shuttle pipes and played a few tunes: "Amazing Grace", Mull of Kintyre by Paul McCartney, and "When the Battles Over". She played some with the drones off so the kids could hear the melody. She also gave the history of the pipes and when they are used. The teachers were so receptive and the kids did really well. She played for 4 different classes at once in the sanctuary. After 20 minutes or so the 3 other classes went back to their rooms and Eve's class stayed. Each of the kids got to get their photo taken with the practice pipes she brought. The kids were a little timid, but Eve was beaming. BAGPIPES ROCK!...and so do Grannies who play bagpipes for their grandkids. My mom has played for each of the kids at the preschool, I think. It has been a few years between each child and all have attended the same preschool.

........Afterwards my mom and I ran over to Zaxby's for a quick lunch. Grandpa Jim met us their for an impromtu meal. I had their yummy grilled chicken salad. My mom went for the hot wings with "hot" sauce. She was happy, but I just see wings as an unnecessary anatomy lesson. Grandpa Jim got the chicken fingers. Good stuff. My mom drove me back to the school to my car and to give Eve a hug and kiss.

:::::::::::::::::::::::How Are You Doing?:::::::

Is a polite question everyone asks when they call. I have been answering, politely, and truthfully that I'm very frustrated with my son. He is given a math assignment that he takes the entire day to finish...often late into the evening. He doesn't listen to the instruction...says he understands...does the problem wrong...reworks the problem after getting more instruction....works the problem wrong. This is an every day occurrence. The only thing he likes to do is the history and science, but puts the minimum amount of effort into the work. This has been a pattern of his all of his life and we can give no incentive of punishment that modifies the behavior. We don't want to give him medication because we think the side effects are equally disturbing. I really worry about him long term. He does himself a great disservice and I think I getting an ulcer over the whole situation. If not I just am extremely frustrated 5 days out of every week.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::What Do You Do When Your Child Is Taking FOREVER to do Math?:
You don't really have to tell me, but I chose to finally work on Federal and State Taxes. We only get a little back, which is pretty good considering Michael has us down for 15 exemptions at work. He would be happy if we weren't getting anything back, or paying because the balance would be great. I took the opportunity to explain to Aaron some of the taxes his dad has to pay from his job, such as:

Federal Taxes
State Taxes
Medicare Taxes
Social Security (HE WON'T SEE A DIME OF THIS!)
Real Estate Taxes
Automobile Tags

Someone on the radio said that folks in the U.S. pay 38% of their income in taxes, which takes most people from January to May for taxes alone.


:::::::::::::::::::::::::Another Layout from my SIL's Album:::::



:::::::::::::::::::::::::Girl Scout Cookies::::::::

I'm picking the cookies up on Saturday, so the folks at Michael's work will be appeased. Thank you to all who purchased from Rachel. She was able to make her personal goal. I plan to take her to deliver the cookies and thank folks. I usually can make it to Michael's work right after school, but not to my mom's work which I'll try to work out both places. Thanks, Again!

:::::::::::::::::::::::::Check Out Michael's Blog::::

His wiretapping topic is really interesting.

Later, y'all! :)

Let's Play, Spot The "LUNE"E!

I can't speak for Michael (though I have tried on a few occassions), but yesterday was really fun. We were able to meet for a birthday lunch at a cool little restaurant called Crescent Moon. I had forgotten that we agreed to meet at his office, so Aaron and I drove to the restaurant to wait. Michael was worried that my serpentine belt had come off completely and we were worried he was in an accident. Aaron asked the waiter where to find a pay phone so I could call Michael. He said there was one somewhere in the connecting mall, but that I could use his personal cell phone. I was surprised, but thankful that he was so kind to offer. I called Michael and realized my error right away. He said not to worry that he would be to the restaurant right away. In 5 minutes he came in the door. He ordered a tuna melt with a side of black beans, I got the chicken salad on a croissant with a side of fried green tomatoes and Aaron got the tradtional breakfast of 2 eggs, bacon and a huge slice of French toast. We had a pleasant time talking and we were all too full for dessert.

When we arrived home Aaron got a call from one of his church friends who is home schooled. He asked Aaron to ride in the park with him, so I gave him the okay. Aaron's bike was still in Michael's truck, so he grabbed his scooter, instead. The boys met at the library and then rode their bike/scooter to our house to play a history themed computer game.

I decided to make Michael a cookie cake to celebrate and grabbed a recipe off the internet. Michael was going to work until 6p.m., but the server crashed at work, so he came on home by 4:30pm. I wasn't ready with the cake at all. I kept joking with him as I mixed the ingredients and but the cookie into bake that, "my husband will really be surprised about the cookie when he gets home at 6:00pm., because if he was home now it sure wouldn't be a surprise!" Michael took the teasing in stride. The cookie cake turned out okay and was eaten, completely, within 20 minutes.

For our fun family activity we went out to observe the Lunar Eclipse. Noah and I would run out and check the progress of the eclipse, then run in and tell the next person to take a bath. In the photos you will notice wet haired girls in their pajamas because they had just finished their baths. We stayed out from 9:30pm. to about 10:00pm. We went in and read a chapter of our family reading book. Only Rachel was awake at 10:30pm. when Michael called us out to look at the moon again. It looked gorgeous with the stars around.



Michael telling the kids to point in different directions.


Now, point at the moon.







I'll post a layout I'm working on of us, later.

Smiles!

White Lies...Aren't So Harmless

::::::::::::::::Why Kids LiePaul Ekman, Ph.D.:::

This was a very good read! Dr. Ekman uses decades of research, personal experiences and common sense to discuss the common trait of lying. His stepson, Tom, has the best line in the book, "Face it. Your kids are going to lie to you until one of you dies."
Kids (and adults) are more likely to tell a lie if they perceive they will be punished, the respect for the target is low or the lie has been authorized. There are also those who like to dupe others that they view as gullible and get delight in doing so. Dr. Ekman cautions parents strongly on telling white lies that they perceive as harmless, but kids recognize as just plain lies. I am guilty of putting off telemarketers by telling them that "Victoria's not home." I see how my avoidance of the annoying callers is a lie, so I have repented and will simply be saying, "No, not interested", then hanging up the phone.
Ekman stresses the need to explain to the child the reason the lie is harmful, not only to the level of trust, but, possibly, to physical health. Children who have higher I.Q.s are equally likely to cheat as any other child if the opportunity, pressure and other factors are conducive.
He brings out the concept of The Halos/Horns Effect. The phrase refers to prior knowledge you have of a person effects if you think they are likely to have other good or bad traits. We are dealing with this in our son's Sunday school class. The teacher informed our son, in front of the class, that the reason she was in the class was because he is a behavior problem. This is likely true, but she handled the situation completely inappropriately. She also has formed friendships with the young girls in the class and they can do no wrong. While we see and hear them belittling and acting in a condescending manner to our son. He is also dealing with a child who has anger management problems (a family trait) and has thrown chairs and tossed our son's glasses down the hall. Michael is going to sit in on the next few classes because I am doing something at the same class time. It is probably best that Michael mediates the situation first because I turn red as a lobster and my face shows my intense displeasure.
Try to focus on the cause of the lie, don't yell, don't withdraw affection, assign a punishment that fits the crime, don't tell lies of any kind. If the kids don't need to know certain information tell them that is why you are not disclosing the information, but don't lie. I will close with some advice from Tom Ekman, "But if you create more situations where your child feels less compelled to lie and can tell the truth, then you can make a big difference as to how much your child will lie."

Great book!

::::::::::::::::Pomegranate 7up Revisited::::::::

Michael really likes the new Pomegranate drink. He told me the flavor was "festive"! So, just wanted to add his review.



:::::::::::::::::Thanksgiving Holidays:::::::

I need to make cupcakes for Eve's class and baklava for my dad and Alice's dinner. Aaron is reading for the Thanksgiving Feast at Eve's pre-k. Noah is doing the play "Stone Soup" with his second grade class. Aaron and I will be dissecting a chicken wing for science. Life is full and ever interesting!

Smiles!

Catching Some Shut-Eye...

not me! It's just the name of the layout I did for our reunion.

::::::::::::A Layout From the Family Reunion::::

My nephew, Elliott, with his Aunty Teashy.



_{Darcy Baldwin: DJB For ANNIE/ DJB MICHAEL / DJB KARENscript at The Digichick
Jenna Desai: Whimsical heart doodles
Gina Miller: Canvas Of Colors
Lisa Whitney: Chalked Full of Color
Kate Hadfield: Newspaper Doodles
Catrine: Chalked Alpha
Holly McCaig: Doodle Frame
Emily Merritt: Bubble Wrap Brush
Natalie Braxton: Cardboard Cut-Out
Christina Renee: Punch label alpha}
My recent downloads from Spiral Frog :

India Aire: Video
The Little things

Billie Holiday: As Time Goes By
Embraceable You
On The Sunny Side of The Street
I'll Be Seeing You
I've Got a Man Crazy Bout Me (He's Funny That Way)

Spike Jones: Entire Christmas Album

Blues Traveler But Anyway

Cher: Gypsys, Tramps and Thieves

Ringo Star: Octopus' Garden


::::::::::::::::::::::Emotions Revealed:::::



This book was a fascinating read! The use of memorable news photos, study photos and personal accounts made this a very approachable work of psychology. Dr. Ekman was able to explain the many emotions that we experience in a practical, as well as, a clinical way. He also used words from other languages since some emotions didn't have a descriptive enough English word. He explained how surprise is the briefiest of all emotions and that startle is different from surprise. He showed how the eyes really help you determine a genuinely happy smile from one only done with the mouth. There is so much amazing information in this book! Two thumbs up!

My next book is by Paul Ekman, as well. Why Kids Lie

::::::::::::::::Aurora County All-Stars:::::::


We just finished this book on Thursday night. The kids were a bit luke warm on this one. I think that our kids don't get into sports stories, so there is a bit of a bias about the story. The thread binding the story was part of the poem "Leaves of Grass" by Walt Whitman. The author never loses the thread and the story is tied up nicely at the end. The concept of how we are all connected and valuable is such a wonderful message. I recommend the book even if you have non-sports fans like my kids.


::::::::::::::::School Reading::::::::

Aaron has chosen for his next reading assignment for school to read The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien. We read it as a family a couple of years ago, so I wonder what new insight he will glean this time around.

::::::::::::::::Spelunking::::::::::::

Michael, Aaron and a couple of friends from Church have gone caving today. They are planning to get back to the waterfall in the back of the cave. Since Aaron has no body fat Michael made sure Aaron had plenty of synthetic clothes to keep him from soaking up the cold water. He was joking that he looked like Mickey Mouse because his leggings were black, his long sleeve shirt was white and his shorts over the top were red. We all laughed about that one.

::::::::::::::::Indexing:::::::::::::::

I worked on marriage certificates from Barbour and Jackson counties in West Virginia, then I was sent a 1900 Census. I am having a bit of trouble with certain letters. Argh! The census I'm working on is from Merrimack, New Hampshire. The information is really interesting. This is a great program if you are interested in being altruistic with your down time. :)

Smile!

Does Hallmark Have an Official Listing for...

"Teacher Conference Month"? I think they pretty much have a set aside holiday for everything...well, except for "Hug A Septic Sucker" month, but I bet if the fans of the Red Green Show would unite that could all be rectified! Anyway, it is, indeed, time for teacher conferences. I had the first one via phone with our virtual teacher for Georgia Virtual Academy. She said it appeared as if Aaron was on track. She talked to Aaron and asked him how he was doing and what he liked. He said he really liked the history sections. He is particularly happy because the readings and lessons are on the ancient Egyptians. Next week is Eve. I know another teacher sent a reminder home, but I need to find where I put it so I will actually show up.

:::::::::::::::::and Sew ON, and Sew On::::::



My husband teaching Eve how to do a simple running stitch. He likes to sew, cook and bake. He is the best wife I ever had!


_{Darcy Baldwin: Pookie Doo/ Doodl E Doo, DJB CHERE/ DJB MICHAEL
Syrin: Silly Butterflies
Emily Merritt: Glittery Mesh Brushes
Lisa Whitney: Chalk Full of Fun Alpha
Bren Boone: Luscious Solids
Mary Fran: Scalloped edge from Can I Be Frank
Natali: Stitches
Scrap Artist: Invogue Kit
Ida: Crayon Doodle
Nancy Comelab: Freebie Cluster from Blog
Weeds and Wildflowers: Paint spatters from Doodle Alpha, Circle and zigzag stitch
Jessica Bolton: Big crossed stitch
Amy Martin: Cloth clothespin
Natalie Braxton: Butterfly}

::::::::::::::::Colonial Williamsburg Layout:::::


Text: The blacksmith was creating a rolling pin by request from the Governor's kitchen. The kitchen folks wanted to see if it would be a feasible way to make their own chocolate. They needed the heavy duty rolling pin to crack through the tough cocoa beans. This is a one of a kind creation and they quipped that they will probably not make another one.

Rachel and Noah were especially interested in the blacksmith shop and Aaron thought it was interesting.

_{Darcy Baldwin: DJB MICHAEL, DJB KENNAscript
Emily Merritt: Word Toppers Date
Birgit: Gralpha
Christina Renee: Book Plate Alpha
Kate Hadfield: Journal Tape, Doodle Alpha, Heavy Duty Staples, Paper Swirls
Nancy Comelab: Vintage Frames
Michelle Coleman: Hand Stamped Alpha, Color Me Solid
Weeds and Wildflowers: Stars, Layered Alpha}

:::::::::::::::::::The Dalai Lama:::::::

is in town and Aaron asked Michael about going to see him, so Michael took a half day off from work and they are currently in the front row of the crowd. Michael called me to check in. He related the story of a lady who was trying to save a spot for herself and a friend, but she needed to go find her friend first. She left a very nicely embroidered jacket on the damp grass and asked if Aaron would mind watching it for her. He said sure. After a bit of time she didn't come back and the crowd had increased. He spotted her pass by and realized she didn't know where she had left her jacket, so he grabbed the jacket and tracked her down through the crowd. She came back and thanked him for being so nice. They will get back some time this evening and we plan to go for a family swim at our local pool.

::::::::::::::::::::Primary Program:::::::

Last Sunday was our final practice before the actual program on this Sunday. The children did pretty well. There are a couple of songs where words are switched around or mumbled, but hopefully I will have my nerves enough on end that I won't miss any ques and the adrenaline will keep me going. I have to stand out about 5 rows back so the pianist can see and the kids. I thought about selling advertising space on my rear end. You see I really hate the idea of standing up knowing that rows of folks have to look at my butt. I don't like looking at it and I just feel like I should apologize for others that have to be back there. I know they will get over it, but all of us might need therapy after this!

Afterwards I am going to bring Noah's huge Mr. Potato Head and put some songs in it for the kids to pull out and dress the Potato Head. It will just be fun to be silly.

:::::::::::::::::::Costume Change:::::::::

Eve is going to be a witch instead of a blue fairy. I went to the store and grabbed her some black tights and a simple witch hat. She already has black shoes and a black velvet dress. I also grabbed a skein of black yarn and grey, so Michael could create a wig with highlights. He said he probably would have grabbed green with purple for the highlights. That is what I get for usurping the costume creator position in our house.

Smiles!

Tartan Tots

Here are a couple of pictures of the kids "playing" the bagpipes. This photo of Rachel was published in this cute little Georgia based magazine my mom receives. I think Rachel was 3. I love the big eye look she has. I told Carol I would try and post these, so I decided to use the template by Pattie Knox to give it that graphic tartan feel:



_{Pattie Knox: Template
Katie Pertiet: Thistle Kit
Bren Boone: Luscious Solids
Emily Merritt: Photo Overlays from October Deal of the Month
Font: Century Gothic/ Black Adder ITC}



::::::::::::::::::::If You Need The Good Stuff Call Mom:::::::

You can't do a simple science experiment these days because the amount of duffusses (sp?) out there making meth! I needed some iodine to dye the cells of an onion skin, bit of potato, yogurt, cheek cell, and plaque, but the stuff has been pulled off the shelves. My mother purchased some a while back, so I was able to drive over and get it. The kids enjoyed looking at the cell structure of the different items. We joked about making meth now that we are all done with our microscope assignment, but Michael is already on "the list" at the pharmacy for buying Aleve Sinus for me last year. I suppose it would look shady?!

::::::::::::::::::::In Progress::::

I have a few layouts in progress, so I guess I'll go off and play with photoshop!

Smiles!

Yep! It's Me Again

::::::::::::Another Family Reunion Layout::::



My son was playing along the shoreline at the lake and was a bit disconcerted that I kept aiming the camera at him.


Darcy Baldwin: DJB MISH/ DJB DEBBIEC at The Digichick
Nancy Comelab: Utimate Background Vol 1, Vintage Frame
Natalie Braxton: Cut Outs II freebie
Kate Hadfield: Staples, Wordy Bits, Doodled Arrows, Paper Swirl
Jenn Patrick: Backward Staples
Bren Boone: Cool Summer, Luscious Solids
Katie Pertiet: Curled Vintage Frames 4
Michelle Coleman: Hand Stamped Alpha

::::::::::::::::::::Ordinary Basil::::::::

Wiley Miller, the cartoonist who pens Non-Sequitor, also wrote a children's book called The Extraordinary Adventures of Ordinary Basil.

I saw this book at the library and decided to check it out. The illustrations are fantastic and the story line is a fluid and interesting adventure. There is a particularly interesting bit of dialogue that has Basil think about how we view the history we learn in school, which is delineated by the different wars. This is in contrast to the history of the "fictional Helios" which teaches the various periods of history with positive human discovers and creations.
I will be tacking this read behind our current family book.

:::::::::::::::::::Swimming:::::::::::

Aaron and I have been a couple of times this week for his physical education time and just to let him practice. I have fun doing some laps, treading water, diving and floating. It is really funny when Aaron wants me to go to the bottom of the pool and I can't stay down. I keep feeling like an undunkable Weeble Wooble.


:::::::::::::::Let's Groove:::::::::

I'll leave you with a song that makes me happy!


Smiles!

More Stuff and Things

We all got soaked to the skin, but it was worth it for our amazing tour of the American Falls at Niagara.


_{Font: DJB JANELLE by Darcy Baldwin at The Digichick
Two Sisters Design: Funktastic Backgrounds, Label It Alpha
Sande Krieger: A Traveling We Will Go
Jenn Patrick: Backward Staples
Christina Renee: Proof Sheets, Glitter Splatters
Lauren Reid: Crazy title
Weeds and Wildflowers: Doodles
Amber Clegg: Date Stamps
Kate Hadfield: Paper Swirls}

::::::::::::::::::More Goofy Stuff About ME::::

21. If I have a car with air conditioning I will leave it off and roll down the windows because I love the wind whipping through the car, but I don't care for convertibles because it is a bit too much wind whipping for me.

22. The last time I had a working watch was about 1998 when I had a job at the Credit Union. I don't like watch sweat...you know the build up of perspiration under your watch. I had one with a leather band and it was nice a flat-faced. I tried fancy linked ones and the spinning and clasp adjusting was quite annoying, so I just gave up on the whole watch deal. I figure their is enough people who do like watches around, or have their handy dandy cell phones that they like showing off to give me the time. That way everybody is happy and I'm on time.

23. I have a severe nickel allergy. I discovered this when I got my ears pierced at 21. I bought some lovely silver earrings and 14k gold ones. It was fine at first and then my ears would feel hot. I put antibiotic cream on and let them heal, then put my gold earrings in and within 5 minutes my ears were hot and swollen. I also bought a pair of glasses that had nickel under the top coating. Once the coating wore off the nickel was against my skin, which caused my skin to die. Lovely...so lovely:( Rachel wants her ears pierced, but I have to have her take a nickel allergy test first to see if she's like me.

24. I don't care to wear jewelry. Notice the "wear" part. I think jewelry is an amazing form of art and I find it attractive, but I don't have the same affinity for it as most people. I think of gems as beautiful rocks, but I have no desire to own them. I find the way people value them above the lives of others reprehensible. Michael is aware that I never would like a piece of jewelry as a present for any occasion. Most people see diamonds as symbols of love, affection, purity, and constancy, but for me they are just pretty rocks.

:::::::::::::::::::Ice Skating:::::::::::

Our teacher for Georgia Virtual Academy organized an outing to the Ice Forum. Aaron had never been ice skating, but after I showed him how to lace up his skates he got right on the ice. He likes in-line skating, but thought ice skating was too fast. We skated around for 45 minutes. He went around a couple of times without me, while I adjusted my lacing. I fell once, which was okay. Aaron told me that his feet hurt and he wanted to stop, so I congratulated him on getting out on the rink and trying. We stopped by Steak and Shake for lunch and had steak burgers with fries (and onion rings). I ordered one of their half and half malts with banana on one side and chocolate on the other. Aaron ordered a chocolate milkshake. Our eyes were bigger than our stomachs, but it was tasty. Aaron used the time we waited to get our orders to show me all the different Pokemon on his new Nintendo DS he recieved as a birthday present from Granny Alice. It was fun just to hang out with him for a few hours.

:::::::::::::::::::Think of Others::::::::

is a trait I try to foster in the kids and I was so proud of Evey. Her pre-school teacher's birthday was yesterday and she was very adamant that we should give the teacher a gift. I suggested flowers and she approved of the idea. When I woke her up for school on Friday and got her dressed and seated for breakfast she said, "It's my teacher's birthday today and remember, I get to pick out the flowers!" I had forgotten...hey it had been almost 24 hours! I hurried her through breakfast and we all loaded into the car and ran by the grocery store. Eve wanted some cut flowers, but I suggested a potted plant. She chose a beautiful purple orchid and helped me check it out, then held it all the way to school. She and the orchid were almost the same height and it was so funny watching her try to back into the classroom to surprise her teacher. The smile on Eve's face was radiant as she got a hug from a very appreciative teacher. I hope this act of kindness is just the beginning!


::::::::::::::::::::::Blood Diamonds::::::::


Description from Amazon.com: Long a symbol of love, affection and faithfulness, the diamond is now increasingly linked with war, blood and brutality. In the diamond-rich West African nation of Sierra Leone, rebels used the precious gems to bankroll a violent ten-year insurrection, leaving a terrorized population and a ravaged landscape in its wake. National Geographic correspondents follow the trail of illicit diamonds from their origin in the muddy pits of impoverished Sierra Leone, to the pristine cobblestone streets of Antwerp, Belgium, to their final stop in the glittering display cases of New York's finest jewelry stores.

Aaron and I watched this as our supplemental history of the day. We were struck mostly by the sad state of people in West Africa who were maimed during the 10 year insurrection. There were children Aaron's age and younger missing limbs. We discussed why people put so much value on this piece of carbon. It was an, often times, frightening journey for those making the documentary. The journalist showed the shot up rusted vehicle of a fellow journalist on the way to where he was headed. It amazed me that large groups of people would spend 365 days a year digging for diamonds in these huge holes scarring the Earth to find diamonds to statisy the world market. They had rich fertile earth they could plant crops and feed their families, but these have been abandoned for the diamond mines...actually much more of their humanity was abandoned when their focus shifted to follow the vanity of the world.

::::::::::::::::::Swim Lessons::::::::::

...start today. I'll let you know how the kids do.

Smiles,

Victoria

Life is But A Dream...

Text says: Row, Row, Row your... nasty piece of discarded filthy styrofoam gently on the lake!



The styrofoam was so gross, but all the kids old enough to be good swimmers were on this thing. YUCK!



_{Font: Stickybet Alpha and DJB Michael by Darcy Baldwin at The Digichick,
additional font: Adler
Meredith Fenwick: This Way brush
Kate Hadfield: Paper Swirls, Doodle Tape and Journal Tape, Music Notes Doodle, and Doodle Alpha
Jenn Patrick: Backward Staples
Gina Miller: Canvas of Color
Michelle Coleman: Hand Stamped Alpha
Christina Renee: Punched Alpha
Weeds and Wildflowers: brown doodles}

:::::::::::::::::::::Book Review::::::::::



Everyone in our family enjoyed Tuck Everlasting. Natalie Babbitt's ability to put you in the landscape of the scene is such a gift. The visuals she creates are amazing. She presents the Tuck family who are very sympathetic characters who have accidently tasted of an eternal spring and have different ways of dealing with the outcome. The Tucks lives become intertwined with a young girl, Winnie Foster, who happens upon the spring. The story moves swiftly and you willingly go with the current. Two of my favorite characters are Pa Tuck and the brown toad. Pa Tuck explains his feelings about life to Winnie in an effort to explain their family situation and why she should avoid the spring, "Not, now. Your time's not now. But dying's part of the wheel, right there next to being born. You can't pick out the pieces you like and leave the rest. Being part of the whole thing, that's the blessing."
This book was a wonderful read. I recommend this as a book that is both great to read and will spark a discussion on what death is and what it would be like to live forever.


:::::::::::::::::::Impressions of Eve:::::::

I was toweling off after a shower a couple of days ago and Eve popped through the door and asked, "What do I need to do to my hair to make me a hottie?" I, incredulously, respond, "What are you talking about?" She made some kind of arm movements like she was piling hair on top of her head and just left the room. The interesting thing is the only person in the house we call a "hottie" is Michael and Eve was definitely talking about a girl. So weird!

...

This morning across the breakfast table I was looking at Eve's eyes. She has big pupils like I do, so I told her, "I bet you will need glasses by the time you're in second grade." She looked at me and said, "But people will call me weird."

me: "Well, Aaron and Rachel wear glasses and no one says anything."

Eve: "Aaron is home schooled, so there is no one around to tell him anything."

me: "What about Rachel?"

Eve: "They just don't say it to her."

...I believe my children have formed some definite opinions on a few issues a bit to my surprise!

::::::::::::::::Product Prop of the Day::::::::

Bar mop towels from Target. Michael was showing the sister missionaries how well our new bar towels wipe away finger smears on the black granite surface. They were quite impressed. I thought he was about to turn into Billy Mays from the Oxy Clean commercials because he was so animated. For those of you who want a nice thirsty great cleaning towel for cheap here is the info.:

Room Essentials 3 pk microfiber bar mop towels (lint free, super absorbent, 16in x 19in) I think we forked over $3.99, but I'm really can't remember.
***Warning: I have already warned Michael that he isn't allowed to sing that awful song "Kokomo" when he is wiping down the counter...and that goes for anyone else so inclined to wipe down my counters. Thank you for your cooperation!


:::::::::::::::::Cave of the Dark Wind:::::::::


Aaron requested this new adventure, so I'm game!

is our new family reading book by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson.

::::::::::::::::::::Poison Ivy in Absentia? :::

I have a spot of poison Ivy right under my left knee cap. The boys went camping a couple of weeks ago and brought back more then their laundry for me! Sometimes sharing isn't a good thing...DISCUSS!

It really isn't that bad it is just a series of 3 icky bumps. I'm just trying to get a bit of sympathy. Michael told me where to find sympathy in the dictionary. It is the same place his father told him the word would be located. Such a colorful family. (He didn't really tell me this time, but he has told me on past occasions. I just banked the information for future reference).

:::::::::::::::::The Heating and Air Person::::

is supposed to drop by our abode, today. It appears that a lot of condensation is coming off of the unit in the garage and leaving a generous amount of water on the carpet in the den. Thankfully, my parents gave us their old dehumidifer a few years ago, so it is keeping the damage to a minimum. The representative who sets up appointments didn't seem to think saturated carpet was a big deal, so she offered to have someone check it sometime next week. I told her no, that really wasn't the best idea. I suppose she hears lots of these stories every day and is a bit numb. I could splash some water on her senses from the bucket in my dehumidifer or squeegy it from the carpet, but that wouldn't be the nice thing to do...so I blog.


:::::::::::::::Addendum to Goofy Stuff About Me:::::::::

I had a lovely friend remind me to list that I tried to cook bacon on a plastic curling iron as a kid. Now there was a good reason for this. I was not allowed to use the stove and I was a latch key kid, so I tried to follow the rules in my moment of hunger. Two problems with my cooking method: 1. the plastic curling iron never got hot enough and 2. you can't disguise the fact you cooked bacon on your mom's curling iron because no matter how much you scrub the brown bacon grease never really comes completely out.

***An addendum to my addendum: My mom replaced the plastic curling iron with a metal one, which I promptly used to try and give extra curls to my Miss Piggy hand puppet. Did you know that acrylic doll hair melts? I didn't. My mom was none to happy...AGAIN!

Another thing: I would try to give all my dolls fabulous hair cuts. I knew that the hair wouldn't grow back, but I always held out hope. So, does that make me an optimist or a nut case...DISCUSS!

:::::::::::::Aaron has to take an assessment and we have a science experiment to do with yeast, so later, gators!

Smiles!

Happy Birthday, Aaron!

_{Mo Jackson: Birthday Candles, Party
Kate Hadfield: Birthday Boy doodles
Sande Krieger: Borderlines
Font: DJB DOODL E Doo! / DJB MICHAEL by Darcy Baldwin at The Digichick}

:::::::::::::Sande Krieger Inspired Layout::::
for our Central Park Zoo visit:






_{Sande Krieger: Borderline and A Traveling We Will Go
Kate Hadfield: Animal Doodles
Shawna Clingerman: The Grass is Greener doodle
Amber Clegg: Date Stamps
Fonts: DJB CHERE/ DJB DOODL E DOO! by Darcy Baldwin at The Digichick}

:::::::::::::::
Aaron and I watched this today:


Decoding The Past: Secrets of Kabbalah
The two comments on the film left on Amazon didn't think much of the film.

Smiles!

Life is What Happens...

when your busy making plans!

This photo of Eve makes me happy! I hope it puts a smile on your face, too!



During our family reunion you and your cousins were crafting bead bracelets and necklaces. I asked you to show me what you were making. So you turned around and hung your unfinished bracelet across your nose and gave me this silly grin. Your face just radiated happiness!


_{Background paper from Summertime Fun kit for DST by Gina Cabrera
Backward Staples by Jenn Patrick
Word Topper by Emily Merritt
Tape and Stitching by Kate Hadfield
Word Bits by Kate Hadfield and Tiff Brady
DJB Ginae/ DJB MANDYK1 by Darcy Baldwin at The Digichick}

::::::::::::::::::Michael Gave Me A Break::::

from my life for a bit yesterday. I had been dealing with Aaron who is a RELUCTANT student to put it nicely. He argued about every assignment. My head was throbbing by the time Michael got home. Then, it was school work with the other kids. Rachel is very self-sufficient, but Noah needs a lot of direction. He was constantly trying to put off his Monday homework. Michael said he would take over and that I should take a nap. I was too grumpy at that point so I did the martyr thing and stayed up and would go in and check on homework. When Noah was finished with his homework we were going to take the kids to a Mexican restaurant. Aaron was still refusing to finish his assignment, so I gave up in a huff and took Michael's suggestion to go to bed. I woke up this morning at 6am with a much need sleep.

::::::::::::::::::Time Matters and Don't Get Accosted in a Crowd::

More interesting learning from Philip Zimbardo's book I'm reading. Two things in particular. One: If people are pressed for time, even if they are clergy going to give a sermon on the good samaritan won't stop to help someone in need. A sad outcome of a study using clergy students.

The second and one that disturbs me a lot is the finding that you are more likely to be assaulted in front of a crowd with no one coming to your aid because each person is of the opinion that someone else will come forward to stop the attack. You are safer when there are 3 people or less because they can figure out pretty quickly that they have to act.

One more thing I remember reading recently was that if you specifically ask a person to watch your stuff and tell them it's important they are more likely to protect it than if you just say in passing, "Do you mind watching this for a second?"

Food for more thought.

Smiles!

The Only Reason She Can Find Her Head...

is that it is attached to her shoulders! Mornings with Rachel are like living in a Where's Waldo book. I try to curtail that problem with making sure everything is signed, homework is completed, clothes for the morning are laid out, but as Gilda Radner quipped, "It's Always Something!" Yesterday, it was a frantic search for her ear drops before school. (Rolled under Aaron's bed...Rachel located them 2 minutes before the bus pulled up). This morning it was her glasses. She couldn't remember where she placed them when she took them off. I found them in a tub of toys next to her bed...after 15 minutes of searching. I really am kinda stressing what I need to cover for tonight to forgo such morning dramatics!

:::::::::::::::


Eve's First Day at Preschool:


She made a new friend named Fiona. Her only bad experience was another child getting to the swing before she did, so she couldn't swing next to her new pal.

A Taylor Tradition:



Eve completes the Taylor tradition of attending Harmony Grove Preschool. The other tradition is pulling the church bell after class. A loud a fun thing to do!


:::::::::::::::::Rachel's Ear Saga::::::::

Ding! Ding! Ding! Round 3!

In this corner weighing in at 67 lbs. is Rachel Taylor and in the other corner is... Otitis Externa weighing in at nothing much, but packing quite a punch!

From what the doctor said Rachel's Inner Ear infection and Strep are all gone, but she has developed an infection in the ear canal. She winces when she has to put on or remover her glasses and if you touch her ear lobe are. She has drops for before and after school, then before bed.

:::::::::::::::::Hairspray:::::::::::

I forgot to mention that Michael and I watched the version of "Hairspray" with Ricki Lake at Tracy Turnblad. Since I had the newer version for comparison it was interesting to see the few differences in the films. I enjoyed the recent film portrayals better in the recent adaptation. I love the additional film time for Tracy's parents played by John Travolta and Christopher Walken. Queen Latifya did an on par job with the original actress. Overall excellent recasting of the film.

:::::::::::::::GVA:::::::

of Georgia Virtual Academy is going okay. There is a learning curve for both of us with the new curriculum, but it isn't bad. I need to figure out how to add German language lessons into the plan. The biggest thing to work with is Aaron reading and following directions, but this isn't new. He read an African folktale yesterday, grungingly. He just doesn't enjoy reading like Rachel does, but the funny thing is he ended up with a great attitude after the story was over. He could explain to me all of the nuisances of the story and moral lesson. He was able to take two different tests without rereading anything. I was glad that he had a positive attitude about the assignment...at the end.

::::::::::::::Making Treats::::::

Luckily, Michael came home to eat some of my oatmeal-chocolate chip cookies. He walked five miles today, so he said he could have a treat. I keep eating them, so I'm glad he is running some caloric interference! I gave some to the neighbor for kindly letting me borrow some baking powder. I made them for a lady I see from Church once a month. Last month was peanut butter cookies. Before I leave her house we determine the treat for the following month. Next month is lemon bars. December is always pre-determined as Southern Baklava month. Talk about just rub them on your thighs because they are gonna end up their anyway kinda food, but they are waaaaayyy to tasty to bypass the taste buds! I'll share photos come Christmas time...(not my thighs...I'm not that cruel!)

Smiles!

Book Worms R US

:::::::::::::Saturday:::::::
Michael and I took our book worm, Rachel, to the book festival being held in downtown Decatur. One of the events was making your own paper. Rachel was able to swish her hand in the tub of water and cotton fibers, then use the screen to create her paper. The drying, blotting and ironing process took about 10 minutes.

What stopped at one of the tents and grabbed a couple of Mad Libs and a book on how to draw fairies and mermaids for Evey.
We also stopped by this shop:
Little Shop of Stories. This place was a recommendation from our friend and Master Book Worm, Kim. Rachel had fun looking at all the books and was a bit crestfallen that we couldn't buy all of them. The store has an adjacent ice cream shop and comfy couches for relaxing.

:::::::::::::::::Labor Day Activities::::::::

Please check out my son, Aaron, climbing "Easy Crack" (a 5.8 climb) at Boat Rock. Michael has the video on his blog.

:::::::::::::::::Resistant Ear Infection:::::

Rachel still has significant pain in her ear. It has been almost a month now. She has taken two antibiotics. The first one, amoxicillan, got rid of the strep throat. I have a couple of emails to the doctor that I hope will help figure out what is going on with her ear.

:::::::::::::::::First Day of School:::::::::

Eve is excited to start Pre-K, today! Her bags are packed with the requested school supplies and she has a great attitude. I'll try to post a photo of her later.

Aaron starts Georgia Virtual Academy today. The company accidently shipped one of the items incorrectly, so instead of Life Science I have music on tape. I'm waiting to hear back from them on correcting the mix-up.

Later, gators!

Far Out! or All Isn't Quiet on the Geek Front!

My dear certified geek hottie hubbie sent me this link to my email yesterday and I thought it cool enough to share with you fine folks.



The Sonic Screwdriver can be found at ThinkGeek.com

:::::::::::::::::::Eve's Tie-Dye::::

_{Luscious Papers by Bren Boone
Doodle Bird by Meredith Fenwick
Doodle Frame, Stitched Alpha and Rubberbands by Kate Hadfield
Block Alpha by Natalie Braxton
Vertical Frame by Nancy Comelab
Crayon Doodles by Ida
Kaleidoscope Papers by Sausan
Font: DJB Janelle by Darcy Baldwin at The Digichick}


::::::::::::::::::::Shakespeare of the Day:::::

"The Taming of the Shrew" is queued up on the VCR. "The Merchant of Venice" famous for the phrase about exacting a pound of flesh was yesterdays viewing. Aaron and I discussed the conflicts between the Christians and Jews brought out in this play. We also discussed how bonds and laws were important. Aaron was funny when he exclaimed, "these girls are dressing like guys, too!" He thought the cross dressing was odd...I suppose I should point out that that is a lot more common than he thinks.

:::::::::::::::::::::Tonight:::::::::

Medieval Times for dinner and a joust! The kids will probably pick at the meal, but enjoy the entertainment. I'm looking forward to a fun night.

Here's wishing you a great weekend! Smiles!

No, Your Other Left!

I realized that my postings have not included some of the silly snippets from our vacation, so here are two of the boys joining the "Virginia Militia". My kids are the 2nd ones from the ends. You will hear my snickering in the background. I simply couldn't contain my mirth.




:::::::::::::::::::Shakespeare Update:::::::::

well, he is still dead. But, other than that, we watched "As You Like It". Aaron recognized two of the actors. One gentleman, Richard Pasco, played the part of Brutus in "Julius Ceasar" and the part of Jacque in "As You Like It". He also recognized Helen Mirren who played Titania in "A Midsummer's Night Dream" and Rosalind/Ganymede in "As You Like It". These plays were filmed as a part of a BBC production to have all of Shakespeare's dramatic works recorded. It is wonderful to see the wealth of actors still around today.

:::::::::::::::::::::::Pre-school::::

I took Eve to meet her new pre-school teachers, Mrs. Crystal and Ms. Kimmie. She was shy for all of 5 minutes, then she put on a fancy dress-up dress and created some play pizzas. She also hosted a lovely tea party. I signed her up for a combonation ballet/tap class. She is so excited "to be big!"

Off to work on odds and ends! Smiles!

Ignorant in More Than One Language!

::::::::::::::::::::Homeschool:::::::

We are working on a Shakespeare block with The Usborne World of Shakespeare as a great resource. Aaron is amazed at the definition changes of several words he already knows. After discussing how tragedies work in Shakespeare's works we watched the BBC presentation of "Macbeth".


We have also been doing 30 minutes of German each day using the Pimsleur cds. I wasnt' sure what I would think about learning German. I am used to hearing French and Spanish lessons. Happily, we are both enjoying listening and repeating the phrases. I always enjoy learning to say to native speakers that I don't actually understand the rest of their language. I can say I'm ignorant with pride!!!

Aaron likes to don his biking helmet each morning and ride his bike around while Rachel and Noah wait for the big yellow bus. Sometimes he is joined by his friend from up the street who wants something to do instead of just standing at his bus stop. Aaron loves to whiz by without his hands on the bar, or try to go so fast that he doesn't have to pedal to get up our inclined yard.

All of our paperwork is in for Georgia Virtual Academy and we are waiting to see if there is room for him. It doesn't matter either way. We have been working since Gwinnett county started school.


:::::::::::::::::Noahism::::::

It has been awhile since I posted a Noahism I will fill the void a bit, today.

Noah walked up to me yesterday afternoon and said in all seriousness, "Ya know mom, Ben 10 is in its glory days. I mean what will it mean to anyone in 5 to 10 years? What will have replaced it? Robot Boy, or something? I mean really, Ben 10 is in its glory days."

Glory days? For a kid who doesn't particularly enjoy reading he certainly has his ears open. His vocabulary always makes us chuckle. He always seems like such an old soul.

::::::::::Noah's First Day of School Layout::::::




_{Lusious Solids by Bren Boone
W is for Watercolor and Alpha by The Powers Sisters at Scrap Artist
Backward Staples by Jenn Patrick
Heavy Duty Staples by Kate Hadfield
Dear Diary by Erica Hite
Wordy Bits by Kate Hadfield and Tiff Brady
Basic Alpha Tape and Stitched Doodle Alpha by Kate Hadfield
Font: DJB MANDY by Darcy Baldwin at The Digichick}



Smiles!

Note To Self...Yesterday was Thursday...

ALL DAY! Hmmm? Have you ever lost a day for some reason? It wasn't like I was in bed. I did the normal routine of getting up, making breakfast for the kids, checking email, reading the virtual news, playing around with digital layouts, working with Aaron on lessons for school. But, all day I thought it was Wednesday, the 15th. I assured Aaron he could go to the library after our classes were over because maintenance to the library wasn't until the 16th. Sooooo, Aaron biked up to the library a mile away and he had to turn around and bike back home without benefit of a drink of water because the water fountain was inside the library. The library, that is, that was closed for maintenance. He came in the house all sweaty went to the fridge and poured a glass of filtered water, drank it, then plopped on the chair. It was only then that I discovered it was Thursday. I started laughing at my complete insanity (surpise about the insanity part!). I called Michael and asked if he would take Aaron to Bruster's ice cream as a tangible and tasty evidence of my apology. So, after a brownie sundae I believe I received forgiveness.

::::::::::::::::Group W Bench::


Text: "Our first day in the truck included the kids demanding to listen to the song "Alice's Restaurant" by Arlo Guthrie. After that song anytime the kids were on a bench together it was referred to as the "Group 'W' Bench."

"This photo is taken next to the garden at Monticello, Virginia. Pic 3 Notice Rachel popping Aaron in the back of the head. Pic 5 Rachel is gloating and Aaron is annoyed. Pic 6 Aaron throws an elbow.

Tell me, do you FEEL the love?"

_{Stitched Frame by Emily Merritt
Paint Stroke by Michelle Coleman
Old Proof Sheet by Christina Renee
Book Plate Alpha by Christina Renee
Wordy Bits by Kate Hadfield and Tiff Brady
Paint spots from Doodle Alpha by Weeds and Wildflowers
Squiggle Fleurs by Jen Wilson
Doodle Frame by Kate Hadfield
Cardboard Tear by Linda Gil Bildal
Teeny Tiny Tags (stitching) by Jessica Bolton
Grunge Alpha by Birgit
Journal Highlights by Kate Hadfield
Font: DJB Michael / DJB JEANNIE script by Darcy Baldwin at The Digichick}


::::::::::::::::::::::::Storytelling::::::::::

my daughter Rachel loves to tell stories and is often asked by her friends in her girl scout troop to make something up, or by her little sister who needs a story to fall asleep. I would love for her to meet Carmen Agra Deedy who is a mesmerizing storyteller. I met Carmen Deedy when I was in my early 20s at the home of a friend. I would think she has no memory of that meeting, but she made a lasting impression on me. My mother keeps a collection of her books to read to the children when they are sleeping over at her house. Carmen has a new book out and here is the link to her website: Click ME!

One of my favorite stories retold by her is _{The Yellow Star: The Legend of King Christian X of Denmark}


:::::::::::::::::::::::Bowling:::::::::::::

Since today, as I understand it, is Friday we will be going to the new season of homeschool bowling. Finding teammates is always interesting.

Another Day Another Doctor?

No, not really. Just got a call from one though.

::::::::::::::Just Recieved a Phone Call:::::::

Rachel has strep throat. The rapid strep had shown negative, but one should never give up on the microscopic world. She said she was in a little pain this morning, but she felt well enough for school. Since she is on amoxicillan we don't need to do anything different. I just need to give her current toothbrush a heave ho.

::::::::::::::Homeschool::::::::

We have started back to school and Aaron finished his placement tests for Georgia Virtual School. He will be doing a hybrid of schooling at this point. No one has contacted us about official placement, yet. We have started back to our own lessons. Aaron wants to learn German, so after math we started on our first lesson using Pimsleur. We are also watching a movie about Germany.

Yesterday we watched a really cool video on the science of magic hosted by Harry Anderson.
They define the difference between a magician and a charlatan. The movie shows how some of the illusions are created and the psychology behind why humans are so easily duped. The Science of Magic also features Criss Angel and Lance Burton.


:::::::::::::::Gulliver's Travels:::::

In our family reading time we read about the people of Lilliput who were preparing for war. They were asking Gulliver for his assistance in their impending war. They explained that their disagreement came from one verse that stated, "That all true believers shall break their eggs at the convenient end." The character explaining this to Gulliver says, "...and which is the convienient end, seems, in my humble opinion, to be left to every man's conscience, or at least in the power of the chief magistrate to determine." He also explains how many people have died in the disagreement over which end of the egg is the "convenient end". We discussed with our kids the comparison with how disagreements about which scripture to follow has caused bloodshed throughout human history while people, conveniently, forget the part about loving their neighbors. How quickly we turn to anger in our disputes. I know I work on not getting my ire up when I'm offended.

Later!

Girl, Work That Hat!

_{Foxy Lady kit by Miss Mint freebie
Doodle Alpha by Weeds and Wildflowers
Backward Staples by Jenn Patrick
Doodle Arrow from Cora by Amanda Roberts
Hand Stamped Alpha by Michelle Coleman
Font: DJB GINAE by Darcy Baldwin at The Digichick(color modified)}

:::::::::::::::::::::The Infinite Mind:::::::::

I really enjoy this show on NPR. They had a really neat program about time this week. To check out the full broadcast click here! They discuss such things as time paradox and worm holes. You can also see other links for some other very interesting topics.

:::::::::::::::::::::School::::::::

starts tomorrow. Rachel is so excited and Noah is his usual mellow self. I had to take Rachel into the after hours care facility at Kaiser Permanente because she was crying during Church and said her throat hurt. We found out she has a middle ear infection. So I think we have covered all the parts of the ear in the last month and a half. I had an inner ear, Noah had inflammation to the lining of the ear and Rachel got the middle. Aaron is currently taking a placement test for a new program called Georgia Virtual Academy. It is an internet form of public school. It looks promising and my sister in law has already started using the program with her kids and is please. The curriculum she showed me included Joy Hakim. I love her writing, so that looked good. After he takes the placement tests we will know better where he stands.

Eve meets her teacher for her preschool class on the 27th and she is thrilled to make new friends and learn. She is attending the same preschool as her older siblings and she thinks that is neat too.


Till later!