John and Ella - First day of school 2009

John started 1st grade and Ella started her last year of preschool! John represented east coast with Red Sox attire and a Mario backpack (including light-up shoes). Ella dressed herself in a colorful skirt and sweater (we had to compromise on the sweater...it's still too hot out!). She loves her fairy princess backpack and was very brave going back to school.

It's been a busy end of summer and we look forward to a blessed semester of learning and routines!

John and Ella are also working on cleaning their rooms, getting dressed, and getting breakfast for themselves every morning. Still with help from Mom, both of them are becoming more independent.

We have been considering changing schools in the months ahead. There is a lovely Charter prep school we've been investigating and Ella might be starting a private Montessori school soon as well. Life continues and we feel very privileged.

FYI

I posted a whole bunch of new things, so scroll down and don't miss PART 2 of the Barry Family Vacation!!

Mighty Mud Mania

John, Ella and I went to mighty Mud Mania last week with my sisters in law - Scottee and Treslee. Scottee used to go as a child and invited us too! MUDDY, SWEATY, AND FUN!!

Visit with Beth and Ender

My dear friend Beth came in to town for a visit last week so we spent the night rationing pizza, swimming, caring less of what we looked like and caring more for catching up. I was FINALLY able to see her new "BABY", Ender, who happens to be 14 months old already! What a doll. Friends for life!

Scout Camp

Adam had quite a blast as a leader for scout camp this year. Canoeing, zip lining, and surviving northern Arizona. What a guy!

Barry Family Vacation Part 2

Barry Family Vacation Part 1

Excuse the ugliness...Two hours of sleep, folks.