School Days and Growing Up Moments

Three beautiful children all involved in learning these days...how quickly God grows these little people! I loved our baby days, loved them, through all of the incredible joys and challenges they held. It's been a bit of a grief process for me as we move to the next stage. Yet at the same time- this stage can only be described as golden. Really so much fun to have little people to talk to and relate with, to enjoy in real relationship. 

I was able to go with Em on a field trip recently, to a ship that docked in Bangkok's port bringing resources of education and books. They call it 'the world's largest floating bookstore'. It's always a treat to accompany Em's class out and about, and to hear her ask, "Mommy, will you sit with me on the bus?" That question makes me laugh; as if there's anywhere else I'd want to be and I already had plans with another 4th grader. Our growing up girl is simply a joy to be with- I never knew it would be so much fun to have one of these!

 We passed the time on the bus playing UNO and hangman with these cute friends...

...and here we are at the ship. I love this picture because these friends are from, in order- India, Taiwan, the U.S., Thailand and the Netherlands.

Not to be outdone, Ju's preschool co-op also visited the ship, with a couple of big homeschooling siblings along for the fun.

Em's school recently had a day to celebrate Thai culture, and here's our beautiful girl in her 'chut Thai'. Papa Jeff, these are for you- Phloi in the flesh.

Another milestone of the growing up years- Asa Bear lost his first tooth. Em's began falling out almost as soon as she turned 5, but little brother has waited until 6 1/2 for this big event. Doesn't he look adorable?

 

During all of this waiting, his grown-up teeth have become a bit impatient and the front two pushed their way up behind, urging those baby teeth out so that they can take their rightful place. You can see them in this shot. Here's hoping these guys straighten out all their own issues without needing intervention from the dentist!