May. 27, 2008 - Family Goals (part 2)

This is a continuation of my year in review for the children, from this entry.

Sam

age 7 1/2

Sam just completed the equivalent of his 2nd grade year.  I say that because there is no way I could have done, nor cared to do, what his peers in public school completed.  He did what I thought was appropriate for him.  Therefore he learned more about addition, subrtraction and the beginnings of multiplication.  He is one sharp boy.  His command of the English language is astounding!  We tease that he should major in "wit" when he grows up. 

Anyway, the number one item that Sam completed that we consider a prerequisite to true fulfillment in life is a relationship with God.  Sam accepted Jesus into his heart and then followed through in believers' baptism!  WooHoo!  I truly hope and pray that Sam can use his gifts to honor the Lord and glorify Him.  Sam has been created to direct great and mighty things!  He is one of those kids who always has an answer or an idea that would work better.  If I can swallow my pride, Sam's idea is usually really good. 

Another of one of Sam's gifts is foreign languages.  He works on the Rosetta Stone program in Spanish and is picking up so much vocabulary.  His pronunciation is hysterical but I know that will come. 

This year I want to continue to encourage Sam in his Spanish, nuture his debate skills , teach him good chore habits, continue to explore multipication and maybe division if he is ready, casual letter writing (so Grandma Joyce can get some more mail :)), first time obedience, and  a love of reading. 

Austin

age 9

Austin has had a trying year.  He has soared in some areas and struggled in others.  We are working on a full evaluation to help him best, both academically and socially. 

In this past year he has created some awesome star wars lego creations, designed intricate treehouse drawings, mastered the art of cooking scrambled eggs and french toast, enjoyed composing his own musical pieces, tumbling at gymnastics, and winning at Scrabble.  He is my artsy child.  If it involves design Austin wants to be a part of it. 

My goals for Austin this year are to teach him compassion and empathy, build his confidence in reading, encourage him to try new activities, show him how to cook more breakfast foods, facilitate his piano lessons, show him how a microscope works and show him the world through the globe I am going to buy.