DAY ONE

Joe is in California and had to miss the first day of school. Following a summer of sleeping in and late nights, they ALL were tucked in and sleeping by 8:30 last night and were up, dressed, and ready to go by 7:10 the next morning. I didn't have to wake either Elijah or Lotus. We did let Aila sleep until the last minute...change of diaper and off to school in her pjs.

It was so precious to see Elijah holding Lotus' hand, while walking her to her classroom. For Lotus, first grade is a bridge between the kindergarten and the grades. She has completed the formation of her physical body and is ready to begin her work with her mind. And this is part of the significance of 'crossing the rainbow bridge' as you will see in the video. It is such a wonderful scene set by the first grade teacher and her lengthy story relevant to them and their environment. Then a 7th or 8th grader greets the child with a long stem rose and guides them across the rainbow bridge, whereupon they walk with them to their classroom. What a tearful moment. Lotus was with Anna, who is the daughter of Elijah's teacher. SO SWEET and SO SPECIAL!

POTTY TIME ?

Recently, Aila has been telling us when she needs to or goes to the bathroom in her diaper. So, I decided it was time to get that potty chair ready. Saturday, Joe asked her if she wanted to use the potty and she was willing. She did a little poop!!! I don't think this will be a regular occurrence but a start.

You are the BEST Melissa!!!

Auntie Melissa sent a wonderful surprise to Elijah and Lotus, an IPod Touch.....the video says it all.

July

Just a few pics I failed to post and wanted to share......

Aila giving her baby a ride. I will definitely be sending Arrott one of these when his little sis/bro arrives.

Elijah getting ready to shower as part of his water safety course.

Using his pants as a flotation device.

Aila enjoying some backyard sprinkler time.

I set up a balance beam webbing...FUN!

Kids have been helping Joe build a tree house this summer. Don't you like Lotus' attire...heels and all!

Still making tree house plans...consulting with kitty, Mona?

LIFE IS GOOD!!!!!!