John had an appointment at the dentist around Valentine's Day. They had a jar of big plastic hearts sitting on the desk. All the kids were supposed to guess how many hearts were in the jar and the person who guessed the right amount would win a Kindle! John wanted to guess, so in went his number. We got a call a few weeks later saying that John had guessed the correct amount and he won a Kindle Fire 10! WOW! We love our kids' dentist even if he didn't give away a new Kindle!
We are part of a homeschool co-op this year, but only for attending social activities. The girls do not take any classes at the co-op that meets on Mondays. The girls have gotten to attend a few events throughout the year with Phil's mom taking them or a friend that also attends taking them. I have been unable to attend because of work. They finally had an event at a time where I could take the kids, plus, John had a half day of school, so he was able to go with us as well. We were able to take a classmate of John's (Joye) as well.
Anna played basketball on the local middle school team. It was a good experience for all of us and she was glad to play. She is such a hard worker on the court and never complains about all of the hard work that playing a sport requires. We are so proud of her no matter what she accomplishes on the court.
For the past six months on Monday evenings the girls have been volunteering at the local humane society. The job is hard and dirty. They spray poop out of kennels and feed, water, and give medication to dogs. They do this in rain or shine and they do it willingly. The shelter doesn't normally let young kids volunteer, but they are going with a friend of mine (co-worker from last year) and she has vouched for their maturity and is responsible for them while they are there. The girls love it and say it is the best part of their week.
Recently, we signed on to foster dogs through the shelter. We are not able to adopt or take on a dog forever because of our long-term plans, but we are able to help out while we are here. The kids were all thrilled! We brought home a three year old dog this past Saturday. Coco will need hernia surgery on the 17th and she will go to her forever home once she has healed. Our kitties aren't too sure of the new member of our family, but they are slowly warming up to her.
I, Rachel, love puzzles! I am kind of addicted to them and when I start one, I have a hard time stopping until it is finished. A co-worker posted online that she had a min-puzzle she wanted to pass on, so I volunteered to try it. It was a challenge doing one so small (the size of a Christmas card), but I loved it! Phil had to help a little with the border, but I managed to get it done in just a few days.
For the past year and a half Phil has been working on getting his masters in educational leadership. He will graduate in May! His graduation regalia came last week! Woohoo!
Unfortunately, the company sent the wrong color gown (We only know this because Phil's sister is also graduating with her masters from the same university and her gown was a different color!), so they are now sending him a new one!
