Summer Fun

I post so infrequently, sorry! So here are some pics to enjoy of the kids. We've been enjoying swimming in the rivers, playing in the woods, and eating from the garden & farmers' market. <3

Lucia's First Food

She's getting sooo big! Here are some pics of her first taste of avacado :)

Lucia's Baptism

Lucia Bella Cardinale was baptized March 14, 2010 at Providence OPC in Chilhowie, VA. Welcome to the covenant family precious daughter. We love you and pray steadfastly for your salvation in Jesus.

Three Months Old

Lucia is sooo sweet! She's smiling all the time and talking up a storm :) Lots of gurgles and rasberries. Mama thinks she'll be getting a tooth in the next few weeks, and she's growing like a weed. She'll grab a toy now and mouth it, and loves sitting up like a big girl. All of her siblings fawn over her and fight over who gets to hold her. Toby is especially loving and is very helpful to mom & dad. We are so blessed to have her in the family!

Our Homeschool Routine lately

For those who are interested, this is our homeschool setup as of late. A loose interpretation of the Workbox Method.
Basically, the big kids have a color & tag type, and work through their boxes every school day. In their boxes they have work assignments that they can do on their own. The little kids have one box each with a few activities to keep them busy and teach them basic things like phonics, counting, handwriting, etc. There are reading times every day that we do together, and other tags for piano practice, chores, etc. I'll also include fun activities like a puzzle, outdoor activity, or online educational games to keep it from getting boring. This has been a life saver with a newborn! I know once I start working at the farmers' market again that this system will keep school going smoothly.
Here is Sophia working through a folder that has pictures of simple words and letters to spell in both lowercase & uppercase:

When they boys finish a workbox, they put the number back on this grid. It's a great visual for them and for me on how much they have left to do.
Of course, one of the beauties of homeschooling is the spontaneous learning that takes place. Yesterday we got to learn all about the Pileated Woodpecker, when a pair of them showed up in our backyard:

4th Birthday-Big Boy Jude!

We had Jude's 4th birthday party today. He was so excited to have 2 of his friends over for cake and snacks. Of course, the cake had to be Thomas :) His 2 year obsession is still going strong, and he almost always has a train or two in his hands. He is such a wonderful little guy, fun-loving in every way! Definately the family comedian, dancing and singing around the house for an audience whenever possible, especially when it garners a laugh or two! He is in love with his baby sister, and can't get enough of her. This usually requires no more than 4 inches space between the two of them when she is awake! I still can't believe he's 4, it was just yesterday he was a baby! I love you so much Jude!

Winter Wonderland

We are fully immersed in the winter season right now. Playing in the snow, sledding, and drinking hot chocolate are frequent activities! Here are pics of the kids sledding:

Of course we are enjoying Lucia, she keeps growing and is such a mellow baby! Much needed in the Cardinale household!