Monday, August 29, 2011

Akron Zoo


Today we met up with our international students Jing & Cheng. Matt had the idea of taking them to Golden Coral. I know, an unusual choice but what better place to try an array of typical American dishes. They were both great sports and tried an assortment of new flavors; beats, mashed potatoes, pot roast, chick peas, stuffing, green bean casserole. The idea came about when we were discussing how overwhelming just picking a salad dressing can be when you are unfamiliar with any of the options. The server at the restaurant happily provided us with little sample size cups for taste testing. Turns out Cheng likes honey mustard and Jing is a french. :)

We wrapped up the afternoon with a trip to the Akron Zoo.

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

First Day Of School



Another school year has begun! We are very pleased that Sydney & Andrew will both attend Northwood Elementary. Unfortunately, if the school board proceeds with proposed changes this will be the last time they are together until Sydney is a senior in high school.

Andrew was siked to have Mrs Melert for a teacher. At orientation he quickly snatched up a front row seat next to BFF, Claire. Both Andrew & Claire have been visiting Mrs Melert's classroom regularly since their siblings were 1st graders in her class.

As predicted, Sydney was much more reserved. She was apprehensive about her teacher, classmates and leaving mom & dad. But that is all normal for her. She was excited about her new outfit, school supplies and the new schedule change placing recess before lunch. She also decided it would be a nice gesture to give her new teacher a gift and picked out some colorful Sharpie markers for her. I think they were well received as she already received a thank you note. :)

Now with both kids in school all day what am I going to do with myself? Today I hit the gym, cleaned the house and ran some errands. I wonder what tomorrow might bring?

Saturday, August 20, 2011

Summer Wrap Up

Summer is winding to a close. The Hall of Fame Game was canceled this year but the parade must go on. This year we scored bleacher seats on parade route thanks to the American Red Cross. The kids and I along with Grandma Franny work up early and with doughnuts in hand watched all the units march down Market Street.

You know summer is almost over when we make our pilgrimage to the school doors to see the teacher postings. I can remember when I was in elementary school and how exciting it was to race up the doors and frantically searching for my name. My children are no different. Sydney was on the edge all day; at 3 o'clock exactly she was on my case to leave. Upon arrival she was deflated by the news that she was not with first choice but I think she is slowly coming around. Andrew on the other hand is on cloud nine! He scored an awesome teacher, Mrs Melert. I have a feeling they will both have great years.