Last month, the 8th-grade band was invited to join the high school marching band for the first home football game.  It is an opportunity for the 8th grade to see what marching band is like as they make the decision whether or not to join next year.  James played marimba in the percussion “pit” as it’s called – many percussion instruments on the sideline that do not march.  He played next to high schoolers and thoroughly enjoyed the night.  While we did watch the game and cheer, when half-time arrived and the band came on, all of the band parents had their time to cheer like crazy for their kids.  Kenny and I are loving this season we’re in with the kids.  

James came home with his music for the game and I might have been a bit excited as so many marching band memories came flooding back.  So, James humored me and we had a little photo session. 

James is in the center back of the band in black.

I am constantly taking pictures of the clouds and sky.  Sunset, especially, is just so beautiful.  At stop lights, I’m sure other drivers are amused at my trying to get the perfect shot.  And if I’m driving, I often hand the phone to one of the kids to try and capture the beauty.  Enjoy!  

I’m a bit late in talking about the start back to school this year.  It was a whirlwind beginning, and here we are about seven weeks later.  We have finally adjusted to our new fall schedule again.  Every year it takes several (or seven!) weeks to get back into the swing of things after school starts, and this year has been no different.  The kids are doing great!

A high-five for 5th grade!

In early September, James participated in Mountain Lab with the entire 8th grade at his school.  Mountain Lab is a two-day overnight camp in the mountains; about 20 minutes from school.  Every year the students attend, including all of the 8th-grade teachers and principal.  It is an event that marks the 8th-grade year.  Traditionally, this camp has been the highlight of many graduating students when reflecting on their entire
K-12 experience.

Students participate in various classes or “labs” throughout their time, take notes, and turn in their workbooks for credit after returning to school.  Classes included engineering, archery, ax throwing, leatherworking, orienteering, low and high ropes courses, fire building & mitigation, & hiking with survival skills.  Students experience “hands-on” science and outdoor education and participate in team building and character activities.

James was in a cabin with eight of his buddies, a teacher, and a parent volunteer and had a blast.  He hardly slept and ate a ton of junk food, but he had fun and made great memories with his friends.  One more reason we love our school – providing opportunities like Mountain Lab for our kids.  

James (kneeling in the shadow) and his group succeeded in starting their fire and were rewarded with marshmallows.

Last week we attended an assembly at Anna’s school.  Assemblies happen every Friday morning and her entire school, K-6th grade, gather to say the pledge of allegiance, sing a patriotic song, hear a short presentation or video or performance, then recite the school creed together, shouting the last line “We are Titans!”.  The whole thing only lasts 15 minutes and is a great way to build the student community every week.  Often the principal speaks on the character trait they’re studying that month, but at this assembly, the 4th, 5th, & 6th graders shared the songs they performed for Grandparent’s Day last month.  Anna’s 5th grade sang The Colorado Trail.  Every assembly I attend I end up needing to find a tissue – hearing the kids sing and recite the words of their creed is so moving.  

Anna is in the middle, to the left of the teacher.

We’ve been attending more football games at James’s school recently.  Last week we all went to cheer on James’s best friend, Caden, playing 8th-grade football.  It was such a beautiful fall night to be outside. 

The following night Kenny took the kids to the high-school football Homecoming game.  James wanted to attend and Jr. High students still need a parent accompanying them.  So, Kenny offered to go, and then Anna heard some of her friends were going so she decided to tag along.    

I love that our school community supports each other all the way from kindergarten through high school.  When we attend these games, James finds his friends and hangs with them, Anna runs around with her elementary friends and the parents sit in the stands and cheer and chat with each other.  At the 8th-grade football game we attended, all of the Jr. High students hung out together in a clump on the track near the field, supporting their friends.  We are so very thankful to live near the kids’ schools now so we can participate regularly in events like this.