Summer Sanity Savers

I know I probably use a certain phrase too much and it may make people wonder about my mental state.  In order to "keep my sanity" this summer, I instituted weekly themes based on the kids' interests.  I basically made lesson plans that included reading material, crafts, snacks, activities and places to go related to that theme.  Last week was worm week (Faith's request, don't ask) and this week is train week for you-know-who.  Today we used egg carton halves as train caddies for snack cargo.

Don't be deceived, he didn't eat them.  He just wanted variety.  And notice the background.  That is what is making me balk at homeschooling. 

We also made our own train.  This kept Zach busy for a couple of hours!  Boy, if I just used my training as a teacher ALL the time, I think life would be so much easier!

Beachy Keen By Faith and Mommy

We made a very quick trip to Port Aransas over Memorial Day weekend to get out of town. We came and left at just the right time.  There was about an hour wait to get on the ferry as we were leaving Saturday. The ferry is the way to leave the island when you have kids. Not only does your car get to take a boat trip, we always see dolphins in their natural habitat when we go!

SHARK!!!  Zach and Drew are too young to appreciate this photo op as you can tell by the looks on their faces.

Shoot for the stars, Zach!

I LOVE this face!

Seashell-searching beauty

We are burying my daddy.  This is our favorite beach pastime. Really.

Ryan believes they are never too young to learn proper technique.

I mean, look at this guy, he's so good he can golf with the club backwards.

As you can imagine, the USS Lexington in Corpus was busier than usual over the weekend.

I'm glad he enjoys the view from here.

Last day:( :)

I had to include the most important aspect of kindergarten...Mrs. Pennekamp!  Teachers can make or break a grade, and Mrs. Pennekamp, you made our year!

These girls spent many an afternoon together after school, creating art, special snacks and sometimes a little chaos!

Faith's best friend Clare.  Yes, they planned it.

I had to drag Ryan home kicking and screaming.