Amazing start.

At this point, I think it is safe to say Ella is enjoying third grade in spite of the new teacher, moving to the second floor of the building and the stack of homework each week. Pretty much, she looks like this walking out of school each day. More importantly, she looks this happy going into school each day. 

Mrs V. likes to have all kinds of help in her classroom and because of my flexibility a few days a week, I've been able to pitch in a bit. Ella still loves it and I'm getting solid training on the 'new math' during the math rotation sessions. 

We've had some really big fun with our neighborhood family group this summer. I served as co-president (with Mama Michelle) for my third and final time. We are wrapping up our last month as leaders. We covered a lot of ground having fun, not to mention owls and birds making guest appearances.

Some cats and sharks blowing bubbles made appearances too.

Our summer send-off Kids N Cocktails produced 457 kids, I swear. OK, so I exaggerate but we had a whole lot of cuteness going on in our yard.


We had big fun showing our support at the Pride Parade.

Larry and I watched the eclipse thanks to technology (from our respective offices) and Ella got to wear 'the best glasses ever' and do some sun-gazing with her school mates.

Nothing seems to be moving slowly anymore. There were times that a day here or there would seem to move at a snail's pace. Nope. We try to soak it all in, get involved and enjoy the moment. And although it doesn't need to be repeated again, it is one of the many reasons I don't get to update the blog as much as I used to.

And until she absolutely refuses, I'll continue to keep my camera at the ready to capture what I can.

Pic sent to me from her teacher!

Also contributing to our busy schedule? These two foster babies: Olympia and Otis. The little Cat Whisperer is working her magic.

~H