Well, we have survived the transition back to school. It has not been easy, but the new school year and our fall activities are keeping us happy and busy.

In mid-August, I went to VA to celebrate Eddie’s 1st birthday. It was great to see the little guy enjoying his party. While I was there, Andrew and the kids went to the driving range and to see airplanes at the Sanford Airport.

We signed Jonah up to play soccer—and it was not good. He started the morning well and he seemed to have fun chasing the ball around (he LOVES to kick the ball and run after it at the gym or in the backyard—seemed like soccer would be a great fit!). Well, he did NOT enjoy it. Lots of pouting and crying. We have taken 2 weeks off and are going to try again this weekend (it is only an 8 week session). So, wish us luck for a better experience on Saturday.

Jonah may not like soccer, but he LOVES gymnastics. He has been taking a class at the gym where he went to gymnastics camp over the summer. He loves being a “strong gymnastics man.” His teacher is great and he looks forward to it every week.

Ella is dancing three days a week! She can’t seem to get enough—ballet, tap, and jazz. She is also working on her piano skills. After music camp this summer, Ella has been very interested in musical instruments and is improving her skills at reading music. Also, while at Camp MusArt in early August, Ella painted a bear that was put on display at Halle Hall Cultural Arts Center in Apex. She was so excited to see her picture and her name on display (and so were we!).

Now that the weather is a little cooler, we have been out on the kayaks again. Looking forward to being on the lake when the leaves are changing!

2nd grade has been great so far. Homework is manageable and Ella is feeling challenged and excited about learning. Jonah moved into the pre-school room at the beginning of the summer and is feeling very comfortable being a “pre-schooler.”

I’m still taking ballet and zumba classes. Andrew is still taking guitar and goes golfing and running when he can.

Sarah, Andrew, Ella, and Jonah