December brought fun, challenges, and a nice long break to our homeschool group. We took off the same days that Addison's school did, and it was much needed. We went to a chilly outdoor dramatic retelling of Dickens's A Christmas Carol . Donated our Turkey Trot money to the United Way. Leah crushed some tricky pentomino puzzles. Bryn threw the party of the year for her fish. Very impressive coloring by Asa. The kids helped me make ornaments for my Primary class. Emmie loves glitter. We learned about the circulatory system. The way the veins and arteries enter and exit the heart is truly incredible. We made labeled playdoh models of brains. Made a working model of the digestive system. Eww. https://youtu.be/NGW62kMmk-8 Teamed up with some neighbors to take some Christmas cheer to a rest home. Had a fancy tea party with the neighbors to compliment our study of England. Leah made some pop-up cards. Stained glass art by Asa. These guys are always looking for creative ways to occupy...

First off, look at this gorgeous group of children: Here's a sampler of our homeschool learning in November. I had to hide numbers all over the classroom for one of Asa's math lessons. This was a favorite hiding spot. As part of our geology unit, we melted bits of crayon together to learn about metamorphic rocks. Learning about weathering. Asa conquered one of his less-favorite activities: tangrams. P.E. Bonus footage: Nate's laundry day work-from-home uniform. We recently heard that he'll be home at least until the end of March. Selling eggs in math. I personally read the book Room on the Broom  to Emmie at least 50 times. A visit to the Natural History Museum. Emmie passing some time with Tommy. Ask Asa sometime what 1,000 minus 999 is. He thinks it's neat. We got a little snow and Leah made "ice cream cones." Popsicles on a snowy day. Brrr! We practiced writing thank you notes. The girls made some impressive creations in their tech classes. https://yout...

We had Thanksgiving at home this year. The Aarons, and our favorite neighbors, Candice and Nolan, came. It was strange to have masks in the mix and less family than usual. But putting Thanksgiving dinner together, just our little family, was a delight! We had so much fun planning the menu and working together to make so. much. food! And Nate and I especially were so aware of how very much we have to be grateful for. We have been so blessed by Heavenly Father. The pinecone turkey decorating committee. The executive planning committee. You know you've arrived when your kids are old enough to make deviled eggs for you to eat. A card from Grandma and Grandpa! Asa was in charge of the chocolate pie. Bryn made a chocolate chip pie. Emmie was thrilled to get her own little glob of pie crust dough. She worked that dough over! Addison received the honor and privilege of making the pumpkin pie. It was delicious! We wanted to find a way to serve as a family. It was a little tricky because of ...