One of my favorite times of the year...

The summer really wasn't too bad, but I was glad for school to start again.  I like the routine, and there is less fighting during the day.  Nathan and Jared got new backpacks, new shoes, and a couple of new shirts and shorts.  They got to pick out their clothes, and they both picked these bright sports clothes.  I guess the neon is the latest fad?  I don't really care, as long as they're comfortable.  Besides, the shoes will only last a couple of months... we go through those fast.

Nathan and Jared both seem to like their teachers.  Nathan has 2 teachers again this year.  One comes on MTW, and the other on ThF.  Jared has a new teacher to the school - she seems to be a good.  They both have a pretty appropriate homework requirement so far.  Reading time and about 20 minutes of work M-F. Both of the boys were disappointed that their best buddies are in a different class this year.  However, they do see them at lunch, recess, and in GATE class (gifted & talented).  Nathan qualified for GATE due to getting a 100% on the math on the standardized test.  He did really well on the other areas too.  Good job Nathan!  Nathan comes home talking about what happened in "the game".  He loves playing sports.  Often I find he hasn't eaten all his lunch, which for Nathan means a lot.  He is usually the one to clean up whatever is left on anyone's plate after dinner.  That just tells me that he is so eager to play sports at recess that he doesn't want to take time to eat.  Nathan chows down when he gets home from school.  It's not uncommon for him to eat a whole container of raspberries or blueberries, plus an apple, goldfish, and bread & butter.  
Jared comes home talking about lunch - being able to talk to his good buddies.  They both love lunch/recess.  Can't blame them!  I liked those things too.  Jared also loves art.  He seems to have a more artistic side.  Nathan and Jared love school, and I love how independent they are.  They prepare their own lunch and snack, and they walk to and from school together.

Owen and Weston are also doing a little joy school at the home of a couple of ladies from church.  They go on Monday and Friday from 9-11.  They both love it, and it is a nice little break for me with just Savannah.  It's especially valuable time when Alex is out of town.  You better believe I use every minute of those 2 hours productively!

Hooray for school!  And hooray for good teachers and friends teaching my boys!