“Let us never know what old age is. Let us know the happiness time brings, not count the years.” – Ausonius

We celebrated a birthday! It’s took me a couple of years to figure out that Scout is more easily overwhelmed on “special” days; that’s not uncommon for kids from traumatic backgrounds. Given the choice, she’d have a fancy party (or a trip to Disney!) but low-key works better at this point in her life. So we had a small family celebration with yummy cake and ice cream and a few fun presents, and she went to bed a happy 8-year-old.

from around the web

• 10 ways to start easy this homeschool year :: I’m doing most of these, but liked her other ideas, too. Number 8 had me laughing out loud at the reality.
• 5 simple ways to make life less convenient :: Why would we want to do that? When we increase the “friction” in certain aspects of our lives, we become more intentional and can break unhealthy habits.
• Aquarium Rock Planter :: TOO cute! For those with less-than-green thumbs, these types of houseplants are pretty easy to maintain.
• 25 Unforgettable Lessons from 25 Years of Marriage :: Great reminders from my friends Barrett and Jenifer. What would you add?
• 31 Days of Parenting Techniques after Adoption :: Very useful list of articles for anyone parenting a child who has experienced traumatic beginnings.

on the blog:

• “Strong Mom” Giveaway — it’s the LAST day to enter!!!

right here at home

We’ve been easing into our homeschool routine this year, and that’s going well for us. Last week we started enrichment classes. This week I started a few basic subjects with the younger kids, and Kathryn started math, English, and science. Next week we’ll add another subject or two, with plans to have everything going by the first week of September. So far, I’m feeling optimistic about the year.

The downside of starting our homeschool year is that I’ve had to modify my workout schedule and right now I’m only getting to the gym one day a week. Although I have plenty of options for home workouts, I always have a hard time shifting into a new routine — but I’ll make it work within another week or two. I’ve been working with my mentor-trainer for six months now; she’s taught me so much and I just adore her. {She’s training for a fitness competition so I look like a string bean in comparison!}

GRANDBABY UPDATE:

We are on baby-watch! Diane is scheduled to be induced Sunday night but she’s also showing signs that she may kick on into labor on her own before then. Either way, it looks like we’ll be meeting Baby Carter very soon!!!  If you’re the praying type, we’d appreciate as many as you’d like to send her way!

*Joining Kris’s Weekly Wrap-up and Mary’s Collage Friday.

Jamie

Wife, mom, J-ma. Introvert who enjoys good books, sunshine, and authentic conversation. Often seen with a steaming mug of tea in hand – unless it’s lost yet again in the microwave. Read more »