Farewell to Rosie

Rosie, our beloved 13-year-old golden retriever, our first child, died yesterday from the brain tumor she was diagnosed with in late June. She was a darling pup and youngster. The last photo below was taken about 30 minutes before she died.

Art Smock

Emily ended up with permanent paint on a few outfits last year from our co-op art class, so I decided to make one with more coverage. We bought a too-big pink and white boys shirt at the consignment sale and decorated it with the beaded trim of Emily's choice. Here is the result:

West Texas Swimmin'

Q: How does a homeschooler change a light bulb?

A: First, mom checks three books on electricity out of the library, then the kids make models of light bulbs, read a biography of Thomas Edison and do a skit based on his life. Next, everyone studies the history of lighting methods, wrapping up with dipping their own candles. Next, everyone takes a trip to the store where they compare types of light bulbs as well as prices and figure out how much change they’ll get if they buy two bulbs for $1.99 and pay with a five dollar bill. On the way home, a discussion develops over the history of money and also Abraham Lincoln, as his picture is on the five dollar bill. Finally, after building a homemade ladder out of branches dragged from the woods, the light bulb is installed. And there is light.
– Author Unknown
(from www.knowledgehouse.info/hshumor.html)

Beating the Heat!

Finally!

This is Mei Mei (Kimberly), the newly adopted daughter of good friends! Her mother was the first friend I made when we moved here -- I started a conversation with her when I overhead her telling someone else that she was adoptiong. That was over five years ago, and it has been over four years since paperwork was completed and they were put on the waiting list! As you can tell by the photo, she was worth the wait!

Blossom the Possum

A home for Blossom the Possum, who Emily purchased with her own money on our vacation: