Cleaning off the Stairs (Not)

I’ve come to a standstill on my school planning. Some people are almost finished. I have piles of books on my stairs in the front hall, making a lovely display for visitors, not to mention a safety hazard for everyone who goes up or down said stairs.

Last year, after Mom’s death, I wanted an easier, more fun school year. Stuff we could do all together and enjoy. And the Lord sent me Elizabeth Foss, who saved my year and gave me wonderful ideas to use.

We also got tired of and a bit claustrophobic in the schoolroom in the basement, so we came upstairs. Mom’s gift of The Green Thing became our school closet and it worked great to keep everything out of the way and accessible.

Then we took the standardized tests this spring.

Science scores took a nosedive, in spite of the fun we had studying Astronomy all year long. I don't blame that on Elizabeth. I'm sure it is because I've been a science slacker all along.

This year we’re determined to bring up those scores. I’m noticing that there are far more books to put in The Green Thing this year. Especially with those ginormous science texts taking up so much space.

So, now I’m wondering----now that the year is 2/3 planned, with one student left to go---how can I make this more like last year and less like SCHOOL?

The Good Part of Summer

Honestly, they have a lot of fun with swim team. Something I never had while growing up. Activities that did not take place at school were not part of my life.

Last night was the annual end-of-the season banquet. Lots of awards were given out and the slide show of all the little (and big) swimmers were adorable. Here are my swimmers with their awards:

The Little Princess with her two buddies. They got the "Inseparable" award.

Next is the Pipster, who broke his arm at the 2nd meet. He got the injured swimmer dogtags as a consolation prize. They should have given him a clue. lol. He still doesn't think his game was dangerous. And he still climbs trees with a broken arm.


Next is Madden who won the Most Valuable Swimmer in his age group (13-14). Whenever people see him on the blocks or with his age group we hear mutterings around us that he can't possibly be so young. He's 6' 2". But it won't be quite so unbelievable when he turns 15 in a week and a half.


Last, but not least, is T Max who won the coveted Jamie Award, the biggest award that the team gives out, to the swimmer who exhibits the best qualities of sportsmanship, service to the team, and a positive attitude. He was there for most of the practices of the other age groups. He didn't just hang out and make a pest of himself, but helped the coaches and the other swimmers the whole time. He's a joy.


I'm so proud of all of them, even the 2 oldest ones who skipped out on the banquet to come home and watch past episodes of Lost. They make life worth living, if a bit messier.

The Trouble with Summer (Reprise)

The Trouble with Summer is that I'm an adult now according to my driver's license, birth certificate, and, possibly, the number of children I have. harrumph. It's not my job to play all day, with or without my kids. My hardworking hubby certainly doesn't see any more daylight this time of year. Only the children are on vacation and I just need to get used to that fact!

Whining over.