8 Years Old

Today Paul turns eight. It's amazing to think that he is that old already. He's lost seven teeth, and I really should know how tall he is. I know he weighs about 48 pounds. He's sweet and sensitive, he is a great big brother and loves to take care of his little sisters. He is a wiz at math and sciences. He has an amazing way to think through problems logically to find solutions. He loves computer games, gymnastics, running, and learning about the Gospel. I am so proud of this kid... can you tell? :) He is an amazing example to his siblings, and I am so grateful that Heavenly Father sent him to our home.

P.S. If anyone is interested we are going to Pennsylvania this weekend, and Paul will be baptized on Saturday the 29th at 3pm in the Doylestown Chapel.  If you happen to be in that neck of the woods - the more the merrier.

Homeschooling and Garage Sales

So, we are homeschooling. (Please refer back to the title of my blog - crazy) But this week went better than last, and I have hope that it will just keep getting better. I was originally only going to homeschool Paul, but Kindergarten is only half day here and I felt like it would really complicate my life even more having to shuttle Daven to and from school everyday. So, we are homeschooling both boys. On Monday we went to the park and learned about standardized measuring units (inches, centimeters) and we measured stuff. All sorts of stuff - each other, benches, platforms, seats, monkey bars. We made estimates as to how big things were, and Paul learned how to measure to the nearest eighth of an inch. Probably my most successfully fun lesson of the week.

We've also been furniture shopping at our local neighbor's houses. So... we don't get things quite as cheaply as we did dumpster diving at UT, but Garage Sales have proven to be pretty fruitful. :)  Last weeks' great find was a bench press and weights, but this week we scored this beautiful coffee table! I was pretty psyched! 

I guess there isn't a whole lot of excitement happening up here in Spearfish... So I guess I'll just post some really cute pics of my kiddos. :) Until next time - smile everyday! 

Spearfish, South Dakota

We have finally arrived and unpacked and started making our place a home in Spearfish, South Dakota. I had never been to South Dakota in my life until this June. Never had I imagined living here! But so far we are enjoying the little town of Spearfish. We've been impressed with the parks and the recreation trail that goes through the town. There are some great hiking trails just minutes from our house, and the weather always seems to be perfect. Actually, it's pretty idyllic. 

Jeff is enjoying teaching at Black Hills State University. The culture of the university is a great fit for him. I'm keeping myself sufficiently busy homeschooling the boys, gearing up to start teaching voice lessons, and unpacking. I am enjoying the stay-at-home life with the kids and I think we are going to really like it here. Spearfish, South Dakota. Who knew?