Tomorrow is the last day of school. Already! Derek is worried about my sanity, and keeps
asking, "Are you ready for this? What are you going to do?" Of course he just realized yesterday that tomorrow is the last day. Good thing I'm in charge. :)
Ethan (with some of his best buddies, Austin and Zachary) finished third grade in "Mr. D's" class. We've said it before, and it continues to become more and more apparent that this boy CHERISHES his agency. Trying to get him to do anything that is not his own idea is quite a challenge. This year we have learned that our challenge as parents is trying to help Ethan develop intrinsic motivation (is that possible?! we hope so) to use his great academic talents. It is so rewarding to see that he can really shine when we aren't hovering over him. We had Family Home Evening at some friends' house this past Monday and they had asked him to read a story from The Friend for the lesson. Now, I won't go into detail as to how he behaves during a typical FHE, but it usually involves rolling around on the carpet and harrassing his siblings. On this particular Monday, however, Ethan not only read the story clearly and coherently, but he also related a personal story that pertained to the lesson and bore his testimony of the power of prayer before he ended. I'm sure Derek's and my jaws were hanging open. We are so grateful for those little reassurances that we are not failing as parents, as well as a reminder that we are truly raising valiant (if not STRONG!) spirits. I'm pretty sure that Ethan's tough resolve to do things his own way will serve him well some day. 
Reid is our sweet little rule-follower. He cares so much about pleasing his teacher, pleasing his parents, choosing the right. Reid received a special award at the end of the school year this year presented at an assembly. He was chosen by his teacher as the student that best exemplifies the character traits and values that are taught in school. We are grateful that his teachers recognized his strengths in math and reading and challenged him accordingly... otherwise he would probably never have complained and just coasted through 1st grade.
Luke finished preschool at Flutterbugs with his teacher Mrs. Lisa Smith. This was one of the best school experiences we've ever had. Mrs. Smith was so kind and did an incredible job teaching preschoolers. She brought Luke's hidden math talent to our attention... poor third child, he truly is your typical "middle child" who goes with the flow, doesn't call much attention to himself, and could be easily overlooked if we're not careful. Luke is a very gifted artist and creative thinker-- it's so fun to see personal talents develop that I know have nothing to do with me.
I have a goal that we will do "homeschool" for an hour each day-- some reading, math worksheets, writing in journals, scripture study-- most days throughout the summer. Ask me how that's going and keep me accountable. :)
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