While Kenny had the sewing machine out awhile back, he printed practice sheets for the kids to work on without threading the machine.  At this point he and the kids know more about my sewing machine than I do.  Maybe time to start a new project! 

Small Group fun…

Playtime with Anna…

Fun at the park…

Introducing the kids to the old “Name That Tune” show…

Painting time…

James’s fifth grade teacher from last year, Miss Higgins, came over recently for the evening.  We so enjoyed our time with her over dinner and playing games.  We knew her before she was James’s teacher and we’ve kept in touch with her since.  

James & Anna continue to be in-person at school and doing well.  We’ve only had one quarantine since we started school last August which is a miracle!  We are hopeful this second semester will go just as well. 

Since parents aren’t allowed in the school building and classrooms, we’ve had to solely rely on photos the teachers are taking to see any happenings at school.  Anna’s third grade teacher religiously takes photos and we’ve received quite a few.  James’s sixth grade teacher has only taken a handful.  Here are some of their events and parties from first semester.  

6th Grade Greek Day…

James leading a class discussion…

Anna’s teacher, Mrs. Dills, found a way to give students a hug even during COVID!  Some of the things students and teachers are missing the most this school year are hugs and high-fives.  When Anna’s teacher made a cameo at a student’s birthday party this last weekend, Anna said all of the students crowded her for a huge group hug – the first hug they’ve had from her.  Anna was so excited about that.  

3rd Grade Hot Chocolate Treat…

Anna’s teacher’s birthday and tutor’s birthday…

Anna enjoyed celebrating her birthday at school in November.  Mrs. Dills gives each student their favorite candy, a pencil and bookmark, and decorates their locker.  She has a little battery operated candle she clicks on while the kids make a wish.  When they blow out the flame she switches it off.  So cute.  And, a tradition at school is to have the birthday student sit in the front of the class and answer questions the students ask.  

Viking Day…

And, Anna’s Christmas party from December…

Anna’s window messages with her new chalk marker

Most of the goals I set for January were accomplished which feels great.  
*Kenny and I spent some time planning our year and setting goals for things that need done. 
*I updated our Christmas card list, thought briefly about what kind of card or letter I’d like to send this December, added our postcard to the Christmas album, and made a few notes about gift ideas for this year too. 
*I finally updated a meal idea list which has already proven to be helpful in planning meals. 
*I’m still working on the Salvation Army donation – a big job.  I did go through my dresser and closet and found items to donate that I no longer wear, but I’m still working on taking photos of all the items and then will make that drop.  

James & Kenny making Pad Thai for dinner

For February I’m planning to:
*Finish the Salvation Army donation
*Make birthday cards – I enjoy making cards and envelopes from old magazine pages and this year I’m planning to do that for most of our friends and families’ birthdays.  I already completed the cards for January and hope to get a good start on making more for the year.  
*Clean exhaust fans in all bathrooms
*Pantry re-do – Our pantry needs some love.  It’s time to replace the contact paper on the shelves, edit and throw out expired items, and re-organize.  I finally have all the supplies I need and I’m actually looking forward to this big project.  I recently discovered The Home Edit on Netflix – if you’re into organizing you might enjoy this show!