First Day of School

I know what you are thinking...

Wait a minute, isn't it Halloween? Didn't you start school waaay back in August? Where's Kolbe?

Well, yes, tomorrow is Halloween and yes, we did start school in August. And, finally, Kolbe is peacefully sleeping in Daddy's arms so I can blog. You see, I like to procrastinate in order. Out of order drives me nuts so Kolbe's birth photos will have to wait just a moment while I move at a posting snail's pace. Not everyone can live harmoniously with this level of crazy. :-)

So, without further ado, here are our first day of school photos.

We are studying American history this year, from the civil war through modern times. These are Collette, Grace, and Quinton's books for the year. They love to read. Each one is an avid bookworm, so this will just barely be enough to keep them occupied.

As always, we started off the day with self-portraits. I keep the style a surprise until the big morning. This year we copied the color-popping technique of American artist, James Rizzi. It took a couple of days to finish all of the layers, but everyone was absolutely thrilled with the results. 

Yes, we really do home school on the counter top - a lot! There seems to always be someone needing a snack while another needs an explanation for math while another just needs to be kept from wrecking havoc. The kitchen counter top is most conducive to all three.

Another year to grow in love.

We really are blessed.

Please Welcome...

Born Friday, October 18th

Seven Pounds & Fourteen Ounces

Twenty Inches

Practically Perfect in Every Way

Deo Gratias

Happy Birthday, Xavier

Well, this baby is due any day now. My to-do list is quite long and somehow I don't think I am going be crossing it all off. However, birthdays must be remembered with joy especially when we have such a joyous occasion which to look forward. Thus, here is my Xavier from way back in August. He is four and he'll tell anyone, anywhere, anytime how old he is with a twinkle in his eye and a mischievous smile on his face.

Xavier had a little family party complete with cupcakes, presents, and rides on the zip line. He requested the cupcakes so I suggested gf brownie ice cream creations with chocolate ganache and fresh whipped cream. Mmmm, yum! However, they were so messy!

After presents, the big kids settled in for an uproarious game of cards while the little ones ran down slope to zip between the trees. Dominic is the only one who can ride from the platform and across the clearing. Xavier and Marie Claire like to be hauled up just a little ways and then let go. That is still plenty of thrill for them. 

The picture of Marie with the big pink balloon is actually her with my belly. As that was two and a half months ago, I laugh to think that I couldn't even take the photo now. She would be completely hidden beneath it!

Xavier Now

1. He is such an outgoing and social boy. He'll chat with anyone. Chat, heck, he'll talk their ear off. One difficulty is that they may not understand him very well as he still has that mumbled toddler pronunciation. We have to bring in the interpreters.

2. Xavier has boundless energy for running and throwing himself at couches and brothers. 

3. He wants to be included in everything for at least a couple of minutes.

4. Footie jammies with glow in the dark dinosaurs absolutely delight him.

5. He must must must be with Dominic at all times.

6. He loves Grandma Ricky with a passion.

7. Drawing is still frustrating, but the idea of school is intriguing.

8. He offers up very sincere and sweet apologies right after he has purposefully throw your toy off the balcony.

9. He is enchanting to watch romp through his day, smiling always.

10. Yes, he still wears the red helmet, but not as much. I think those days are sadly behind us.

Happy Fourth Birthday, my Xavier boy!

I love you!