“One way to get the most out of life is to look upon it as an adventure.” – William Feather

Could little-kid Brandon be any cuter? This was out on his grandfather’s sailboat (Ken’s dad) twenty-ish years ago. Ken would love to have a boat someday, and how fun would it be to carry that adventure into the next generation taking Carter sailing in a few years!?

from around the web:

• 7 Hobbies Science Says Will Make You Smarter :: Good thing I already do some of these; I’ll have to add in a few more!
• The Introverted Parent on Vacation :: “In the long run, I’d rather my kids remember the time mom missed out on a park in Paris than the time mom had a tearful meltdown in Paris. So I’m learning to be kind to myself, to recognize my limits, and to ignore the guilt.”
• Italian Neighbors build a social network :: I have a love/hate relationship with facebook, but this is an example of it being put to good use.
• To the Mom who feels she has lost her identity :: A bit of encouragement, whether you’re a relatively new mom or a seasoned decades-in mom.
• Making space :: Foster-adoption, de-cluttering, and sharing real. So obviously, I had to love this article.

on the blog:

(in case you missed it)

• Throwing off the bowlines :: Ahem!   There’s an announcement in this one. No, not about a pregnancy or more kids, but it’s still a big deal.

right here at home:

Last week’s yard sale wasn’t spectacular, but we cleaned out more stuff and made a few bucks, which are my only requirements for declaring yard sale success!

Homeschooling is going well so far. Not perfectly, of course, but given all that’s going on lately, I’m pleased. I’ve been getting a kick out of reading lessons with the boy; he loves the individual attention and he’s super motivated by his desire to read. It’s adorable.

Kathryn is doing more of her schoolwork in her room this year than in previous years. She’s finally realized it’s easier to concentrate when she’s away from the hubbub of the living room.   FYI: cafe mocha makes math better.

Scout is enjoying her science in one of the outside enrichment classes we’re doing. I think what she likes best is all the coloring, cutting, and pasting in her science notebook, plus the major involvement this homework requires from me. This week they dissected owl pellets!

I’ve been reading Tattoos on the Heart (Amazon link). I’m only about a third of the way through, but it is already so, so good. If you’re offended by language, don’t read it. But if you’re a fan of love and compassion and Jesus, then put this one on your list.

–> Linking up today with my friends Kris and Mary.

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 »