Lately

1- I’ve been using real dinnerware since the beginning of 2009, and so far so good.  I moved all of my paper plates, cups, and bowls into storage and we have been washing our dishes.  I have had to make a conscious effort to be on top of getting the dishes loaded and unloaded, but the transition has not been as awful as I had feared.

2- We still have not decided on the right place to hang the amazing artwork of the kids. As soon as we do, I’ll post a picture.

3- Hannah is doing preschool three days a week now and is doing well there.  I think she’s right on track for starting kindergarten this fall.

4- Emma saved her family dollars up for a special outing to American Girl Place with Mom. She brought her two dolls Emily and Mia, and we browsed through little girl heaven with them. We spent the afternoon eating, driving, talking, and shopping. It was a lot of fun for both of us!

5- Hunter went on a four mile scout hike yesterday.  He loaded his backpack with a first aid kit, water and a few other supplies.  When he explained the trail to me he said they hiked along a dirt path that was right next to a bike path, that was right next to a road.  I guess the emergency supplies weren’t really necessary.  Maybe they’re saving the roughing it for the next hike!

6- Rob has fallen head over heals for family history. I am trying not to be jealous of how much time he spends with his new best friends, ancestry.com and familysearch.org.  However, he has found a lot of new information about his side of the family, and even some about my side too.  If you’re interested in details let us know and we’ll pass along the family info.

7- Sabrina has discovered her true personality.  It seemed to happen just before Thanksgiving, and I have been waiting for her to be her “old” self, but it seems that the new Brina is here to stay.  Where she was once shy and introverted to the point of curling up in a little ball, she is now singing at the top of her voice and talking a mile a minute about everything she can think of.  We had worried that she might be the family brooder, but she is all sunshine and smiles now.  I hope she keeps it up because my heart leaps with happiness when I see her skipping down the hallway or putting on little shows.

8- Rob and I teach the CTR 7 class in our church primary.  Last year we taught the 10 year olds and we loved that class! We were so sad when we were not able to move up with them this year.  But we are loving our new class just as much already.  They are so full of energy and happiness that it is truly a joy to be with them.  We have a reward system set up so they are earning pennies throughout class for good behavior and participation.  At the end of class they turn in their pennies for a special treat or prize.  It has been fabulous.  The kids all pay close attention and spend most of the class with their hand in the air ready to answer a question.  So fun!