John's First Soccer Practice

John might be taking after Uncle David! He had his first soccer practice and had a BLAST. He had a huge toothless grin on his face the whole time.

Ella's First Leotard and Slippers

Ella got her first leotard and ballet slippers today. She's certainly in heaven on earth. If you know Ella, she has a huge passion for dance, just like her Great Grandma Gerber. She'll be starting at her dance academy soon.

Neti Pot

Adam came home with a neti pot last night. I will be looking like this for the next few days until I feel better.

VW Bus High Altitude "Kampout" 2009

Pluots

These are the pluots we purchased over the weekend through the food co-op. I learned a pluot is a hybrid fruit which comes from both plums and apricots (yes, ah-pricots...in my most eastern accent).

These were a fabulous pick-me-up for a sagging Monday. I'm not quite sold on all hybrid plants, but I sure did enjoy eating this fruit! It was a gift...and I really needed it today.

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!!