Back to school

Same place, same uniform, different year. This year, we started 3rd grade. Over the weekend, Zachary was already telling me how he did not like English or Math tests. His teacher is Miss Trout. I love her! She loves the kids and has a desire for them to learn spiritually and academically. Her class is quiet and controlled, and she always states her expectations before the children are allowed to move. She shows loving discipline. So far, I think this year will work out very good.

On a funny note, I was explaining Ms. Trout's conduct policy. If a child gets too many marks against their name, they have to write 75 sentences for homework that night. So something like, "I will not talk in class." I explained this to Zachary, and he said, "that is too many. It should be five." I told him let's just work not having to write the sentences.

The cruise

John and I went on a cruise in late July to celebrate our 10 year anniversary - woohoo! Anyway, we had a good time, snorkling, Sea Treking, ziplining, and rock wall climbing. We also layed by the pool and people watched, and did that at the beach too. We took a few island tours, which for the most part, were interesting. To say the least, we enjoyed the R&R and not having to worry about Zachary. A friend and past therapist kept him again. She does a great job. Here are a few pics...

Ready to board the boat

On the zip line

On the rock wall

John is not a fan of being too far off the ground, so I ventured off by myself. We had a good time, and Zachary is already looking forward to us going again next year. Hmmm, he must of had a good time without us. 8-)

Painting with Granmommy

In decorating Zachary's room, we decided to go with a game theme. Being highly interested in chess, and ranking in the top 4 students in Chess Club, a chess picture seemed appropriate. And why keep it simple with a fabricated picture when we could get Granmommy involved.

Once I got Granmommy to agree, we set out for a fun weekend. She might report differently. I don't think we realized what we had gotten ourselves in too. I had my ideas and Granmommy had hers. After two days of drawing and painting, we finished our masterpiece.

The Battle is On

Pops is Zachary's buddy when it comes to playing games. Now, I will admit that Zachary is a cheater and sore loser, but Pops endures nonetheless. Notice the seat positions. Last time they played, we realized Zachary had to go the bathroom a little too often, only to check out where Pops boats were when he returned from the bathroom.

Chess camp

Chess has become a regular activity in the evenings at our home. I think I've posted on this before. So, we decided to try Chess camp out. And true to form, when they started camp on the first day, Zachary had pen and paper out taking notes. He has learned all kinds of strategies and new terms. The only thing he continues to do is try to take all your pieces before he will checkmate your king. It drives John crazy, and maybe that is because he insists on rubbing it in that he is going to win. I just have to laugh.

Zachary with his award and trophy. He really liked camp!