Well, as you can tell from the title, school has been going great. We have gotten on track as far as hours. I have even found a great phonics workbook for Vanessa to use so I can see where the holes are in her phonics. I am very greatly encouraged.

I am hoping to add a few fall crafts into our schedule next week. My kids love crafts and coloring.

I have been trading music lessons with a friend of mine for some sign language, math, and art lessons for my kids. We have tried to meet every Friday. My kids have really enjoyed the lessons, and it has been really good for them to have someone else teach them something. My five year old at first rebelled, telling me that she only like me as a teacher; but I insisted that she participate with everyone else, and she has really enjoyed the lessons.

Something else that has helped bring us peace in our home is the Maxwells' Chore Packs. The kids have been faithful about doing their chores, and if they are not then there are consequences (loss of tv and computer time mostly). But the biggest impact has been that the responsibility for their chores now rests on them. I no longer have to remind them what to do, or nag them to get it done. I just ask them when I get up if they have worked on their chore packs, and before they are allowed any breaks in school (outside, tv, computer, ect.) I check to see that the chores are done right. We have regular scheduled breaks in our day, so this works for our family. It has brought about a new level of relaxation (my dishes are actually done!)

On the whole, things are going well for the Ellingsworth Family! Hooray!

Blessings!

Abby E.