4th, 6th and 10th

School is in session! So far, so good.

Maddie was the most excited about school starting up again. When we found out who her teacher was, she was a little disheartened as she had heard rumors that this teacher was the "meanest 4th grade teacher." We talked a bit about it and decided that she should go into this year with no preconceived ideas. As long as she did what was expected of her, she would do fine. She was looking forward to bringing Mrs. C a gift of chocolates and Bath and Body hand sanitizer. Seven hours of school later, she came home with much enthusiasm and exclaimed, "I have the BEST teacher EVER!" She is pretty stoked about reading and is looking forward to being a Massey Ranchhand. (This is an honor that only 12 4th graders receive as they are nominated by teachers.) Her first line of duty was to gather a few items from home that descibe her. She chose a Webkinz, karaeke CD, Taylor Swift CD, bookmark and a money card from the Children's Museum. Not sure if that is because she liked the museum or has a new found love for clothes shopping. Mother Hen Maddie has already befriended a brand new 2nd grader on the bus and takes pride in tending to the "little" ones now that she is a big-timer. Other than our struggle to keep her awake at 4:30-5p, she is loving life!

6th grade has proven to be just as good as 5th so far. Zack knew his teacher previously, as he did some substitute teaching last year in Science and Zack was really impressed with him. Zack is also really pumped about a few clubs that are being offered before and after school. He is considering the Quizbowl club and the Science club. With the clubs and band (Cornet) and soccer, he ought to be plenty busy. How could you deny a boy so many golden opportunities for learning and growth?? Here is a picture of Zack holding out his newest creation. He too had the assignment after the second day of school to gather a few things that described him. He brought one of his favorite books (39 Clues), his bowling pin, his elaborate paper violin, a rubix cube, and a rope (learning knots in Scouts). Once again, he is the last to wake up and get to the bus and he is the last to come home. We are super excited for him this year!10th will be better, we just know it! There are a couple of fun changes for Graham this year. During the summer he earned his moped license and is now prepared to get himself to seminary and school. I'm not sure who's more excited about that, him or Mike. I say Mike! I've included a few pics of Graham all decked out in his cycle gear and heading off into the darkness. At least until daylight savings time. Graham wakes up at 4:45am, gets getting dressed and breakfast out of the way before seminary starts at 5:40am. Then it's off to school by 7:15am. Needless to say, he is the first to arrive back home in the afternoon. I think he has great expectations for himself as he will be super busy with Chemistry, Algebra 2, Intro to CAD Engineering, Hotel Management, Spanish 2, and MORE! He will be a smarter fella come next year. On a non-school note, we will be celebrating his scouting accomplisments on September 19th with his Eagle Scout Court of Honor. The boy is slowly but surely becoming a man!So as you can see, we are passing the first week of school with flying colors. I am trying to balance my life of family/home, Young Women's, P90X, work, etc. Sometimes I feel like I can't see the forest for the trees. But it's all good! Mike has been working from home a lot. I'm getting used to his verbal outbursts (boredom?) and occasional dire needs to run for Happy Hour and I love him just the same. He is a wonderful man. And can I just say he gives the most beautiful Father's blessings! Each of the kids look forward to this special tradition the night before school starts. I love him for honoring his Priesthood responsibilities and staying worthy to be able to bless us with them!

So that's that. School is now in session and I have a workout to muster through so until next time...