On the Way to Work & Other Tidbits...

On my way to work this morning, I saw these, so naturally, I had to pull over and snap a few pictures!

This has been, so far, a rather hectic week, as M started back to school yesterday, working toward a Culinary Arts Certificate. Thankfully, he was able to get into all three classes he wanted, and as an early birthday gift, I got him a set of knives, as every student/cook should have their own. He loved his first day back -- I know he was nervous when he went in, but by the end of the day he was happy! And I have to say, he looks pretty snazzy in all his gear... the official chef coat and pants, and so on. Now we just have to get the courses approved by the Employment Development Department, so he can continue getting unemployment compensation until he is "retrained". And thankfully, I only have to drop him off at the Culinary Arts Center two mornings a week, Mondays and Tuesdays! We're also looking forward to his birthday on Thursday, a nice relaxed day at home.

The kids and I, meanwhile, are wrapping up a few books this week, getting ready to start some new ones next week. To finish: Trumpet of the Swan, You Are the Earth, Heidi, Emi & the Rhino Scientist (which we misplaced for a week or so, oops), and the first Harry Potter book. We're 

continuing with Our California Home going to read through The Rainbow Book of American History (for a fun, quick overview), and California-themed Landmark Books. We are getting ready for The Garden Princess (with The Girl at bedtime), the The Thirteen Clocks (both kids at bedtime, and after which we'll return to the Harry Potter series),  Cheaper by the Dozen (both kids, during homeschooling), and either All About the Stars OR Keepers of the Earth for some light summertime science.

Speaking of books, I have owned Homeschooling: A Patchwork of Days for several years now, and truthfully, I love the glimpses into the homeschooling lives of others. I was delighted to find out that the author had compiled a second book, Homeschool Open House. So I promptly ordered a copy. A book arrived, I tore off the packaging, and found entirely the wrong book (packing mistake). I returned the book, got a refund, and reordered the book I wanted. This time, the seller canceled, after realizing they did not have a copy available. Well, long story short, third time's the charm, and I have now have in my possession  a nearly new copy, which I can't wait to read! And, I am excitedly awaiting not one, but a few, boxes of books (so much for downsizing!), as I was able to score, at a very good price, 40 of the All About books, original hardcover! My inner bookworm/nerd is jumping up and down with joy!

Hope your week is off to a good start!