I think we're finding our rhythm again.  It always seems that after a summer of long days spent outdoors, it takes some time to adjust to the shorter, cold days of autumn.  We're settling in to various activities during the day and although there is always that, "oh my goodness, I need to get these kids outside right now!" moments, all in all things are good.  

I am learning that the most successful type of "school" is that which includes all the kids.  

There is a fantastic curriculum that shares great ideas of how to bring books to life and create activities based on the book and we're trying to work with this more often.

When reading about a book that takes place during medieval times, we made castles.  

 {Mikayla's castle, and very proud of it!}

{Aiden and Caileigh worked as a team on theirs}

When the character in the book makes a cake, we made a cake.

"A lovely, light, luscious, delectable cake!"

(insert lesson on alliteration)

We've been working on helping one of our children to listen better.  While creating this picture, the child said to me, "I'm drawing a picture of you Mommy.  You're smiling because I listened!"

Apparently I am also extremely limber.

Aiden and his friend next door came up with an idea to have a costume party.

I didn't realize they were serious until Aiden wrote on the calendar, "costume party".  We invited some friends over and enjoyed spending time together.  

The older three kids each made a piñata, (two pieces of paper stapled together filled with candy) and it was good for laughs watching the kids try to whack it open.  My brave neighbour took over the supervision of the "whacker" and I think she did a fabulous job.

The girls must have changed their minds a dozen times leading up to the event but finally they settled on an outfit and were happy with their choices. 

{practicing make up last week}

 

{Ladybug.....such a versatile outfit!}

{princess}

{Luke Skywalker....Aiden put this costume together himself and borrowed the lightsaber from his friend}

 {Jordan lasted 30 seconds as an elephant}

{Surprisingly Alex stayed dressed up like a pig for hours!}

 {Waiting for the piñata}

{See what I mean?  Brave neighbour!}