Here we go....

Sophia started soccer. Sophia, Jaclyn, & Katya are posing in her new "costume" or uniform. She called it a costume. Some of their language is so sweet to hear. She wanted a photo with Mama too.

Here's Katya posing with a sweet photo at the zoo. Jaclyn playing violin at the State Fair.

Jonathan with a butterfly at the Como Zoo. Here's the gang posing at the zoo. Sophia, Natasha, James, Jaclyn Jonathan, Andri, Katya (from front to back).

Giraffe's at the zoo, Chris at the State Fair.

Well, here we go for school, 3 at public, Katya at middle school, Natasha & Andri at grade school, Jaclyn, Sophia, Jonathan, and James homeschooled. We made it to the open houses, met teachers, picked up information, toured the schools, etc. I'm working on my own "school" schedule and things at home (slowly).

We managed to see the State Fair this year, as Jaclyn had a violin gig there with her teacher. We also went camping last weekend near Chris' aunt & uncle's, Joan & John's, home. It was a big blessing, especially the wonderful dinner Saturday night.

Our oldest five took a homeschool biology course this week for 2 days and did great at it. They had absolutely no issues with friends or sitting through 4 hours of English. I think it was a great introduction to school for the fall. Andri brought home 2 fish eyes, a fish brain, fish heart, and some skin (yeah!).

I am a little down with health issues with my parents, and weariness from kids sassing, and wishing for little things that just seem like an eternity away. Chris is busy with work presentations, fixing our deck, helping the boys with football, and helping his parents here and there.

We're looking forward to a nice weekend around the house this Labor Day.

Love from Alesia & Chris